I watched the January 19th broadcast of NHK's "Professional Work Style." It featured the story of patchwork craftsman Takao Matsumoto.

Patchwork (also called kakehagi) is the process of repairing moth-eaten holes and tears in clothing by inserting thread or fabric into them so they are not visible from the outside. Matsumoto is 73 years old and has been in the business for over 50 years. It seemed there was nothing he couldn't repair. He repairs both knitwear and synthetic fabrics. What was astonishing was that he also repairs leather items, which are not made of fiber. He uses a needle to remove one-third of the leather, making the repair completely invisible. It's truly a masterful technique.

Each piece of clothing featured on the program had its own story. It could be a custom-made suit inherited from their father, or a cardigan given as the first gift by their mother. When the owners put on their clothes after they had been repaired, they were overcome with an indescribable sense of happiness. Some were even moved to tears. "Objects have life," Matsumoto said.

Repairing is not a cheap service, costing around 5,000 yen to repair a single moth hole. This is because it is a very meticulous job and not easy to do. Depending on the condition, it may be cheaper to buy a new item. However, there are still people who are passionate about repairing and wearing these clothes, and who are attached to them. This creates an atmosphere and feeling that is completely different from the attitude of consuming through fast fashion. That is how powerful clothing is.

The time spent with the clothes, the sense of elation and emotion when wearing them. It is true that clothing is a highly personal preference, and is not given as much importance as food and shelter. You cannot die without it. However, as the medium closest to the body, to humans, perhaps in some ways it is even stronger than the other two.


What I am trying to say is that clothing = fashion is the ultimate phenomenon. After the renewal, we are committed to promoting the wonders of fashion under the slogan "more fashion, more mode." We hope you will continue to support FASHION HEADLINE.
※The photo shows a Gaultier ring that I went to buy on the day of the renewal.