Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, a long-established maker of Nara bleached sarashi, a traditional Nara craft since 1796, has announced new collections for its six in-house brands for Spring 2014. Based on the concept of "Japanese cloth," Yu Nakagawa (Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten) offers a reproduction of Banshu weaving from Nishiwaki, Hyogo Prefecture (released in late January 2014), jacquard weaving from a weaving factory in Hachioji (released in late November 2013), and, following on from last season, new textiles by artist Michiko Takahashi (released from January 2014). The company has also collaborated with House Industries, a leading name in the American typography world, to release "House Industries x Yu Nakagawa," a textile line inspired by Japan. House Industries, a design group known in Japan for their work on UNIQLO T-shirts, is a hot topic in Japan. They are proposing five textiles (to be released in late October 2013), including "DEER," which features the Yu Nakagawa logo, a silhouette of a deer and a lowercase "n"; "ROPE," inspired by the bell ropes found at shrines; and "ROOF," which depicts the appearance of Japanese roof tiles. Brand Manager Mutsuko Tade explains, "Founder Andy Cruz is a huge Japan lover and connoisseur. He loves Japan's historic streets and frequently visits Kyoto. He asked us to create designs incorporating Japanese motifs and the Nara deer, and we received five designs. We will be offering a total of 16 items, including bags, pouches, tapestries, and slippers." House Industries' designs, which feature Japanese motifs but also a mid-century modern feel, are sure to appeal to people of all ages and genders. "2x9" (Nikyu) is a brand launched on November 11, 2011, "Sock Day," by a Nara sock factory and Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, through close collaboration. The lineup includes a rich selection of functional and stylish products, including "Odorless Socks," made with deodorizing washi paper; "Fit Socks," which prevent swelling; "Stuffy Socks," which are moisture-proof; and "Non-Constricting Socks," which are popular for their relaxed fit without constricting the feet. A new addition to the classic "Non-Constricting Socks" is the Dip series (released in January 2014), which features a pattern that makes it look like feet have been dipped in colorful paint. The unisex design makes them perfect for couples to wear together. Other brands releasing new spring products to enrich your life include core brand Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten; Kisara, which proposes a beautiful lifestyle; Motta, which focuses on unpretentious handkerchiefs that don't require ironing; and Nihonichi, which focuses on Japanese souvenirs.