Always returning to Workers, K&TH – a small scale operation from Takashi Tateno based in Kurashiki, Japan. The collection moves around the same themes of classic American workwear so don’t expect to see future-leggings or ‘directional wardrobing’ anytime soon. For May Wabash fabric returns in a smart vest and railway jacket, alongside a heavy canvas tote, polka dot shirt and parachute trousers.

Click for more

A good amount of time, design, and TLC went into this Flap Bag from Workers Japan that we are excited to bring you a peek at. Per usual with the brand, the heritage details have it. The rivets in this case are crushed manually using an analog machine. We are likely losing a few things in translation, but the shape on this mimics the brand’s Tool Bag but has the addition of the namesake flap, plus a removable shoulder strap which allows it to be carried as a handbag.

Cheery, sporty looking thing. We are drawn to the camouflage which is not exactly customary. And now a highlight from Google tanslator: “He simply wither and attracted to the unique expression of a different fabric.” We know how that feels.

We’ve followed the progress of Workers closely over the past few years. To see Takashi Tateno develop his business from those first few homemade items, created primarily for himself, to a consistently brilliant monthly collection has us tipping our railway caps to the man’s considerable talents. Through detailed research, geeky enthusiam and designing skill, he has delivered some exceptional items from accessories to outerwear. Here, The Scout pulls back the curtain and reveals the man and his retail space based in Kurashiki, Japan, through a series of images and interviews.

What seems to primarily drive Tateno is the production process behind old American garments; the sewing machines, the stitching, the creation of certain fabrics. His obsession with that most beautiful of cloths, Wabash, is explained “I didn’t know how to make the Wabash fabric. So in September, I traveled to the U.S for the first time. Went to West Virginia and the archive of J.L. Stifel and Sons. I found some reports from the 1940’s and I was able to understand the basic method of making that kind of fabric. I brought that information back to Japan and asked a fabric manufacturer replicate it.” A series of sentences which sum of this mans dedication perfectly. More at The Scout.

Back again with this months collection, Workers and their fine repro inspired wares. The latest line includes; A polka dot Stifel inspired shirt complete with pocket watch hole. A hickory striped ‘Queen of the Road’ chore jacket a play on Lee’s ‘Boss of the Road’ perhaps. A seersucker blazer, also available in navy cotton. Casual, buckle back chinos and finally our favourite, a denim tote based on the front panel on a pair of Hercules dungarees (or overalls depending on which side of the pond you reside).  The kind of item that on paper sounds pretty dodgy but ends up being brilliant. Another fine lot from Workers.

Click for images

Workers give us a look at some future garms. Lots in store for 2012 including florals, painter totes and experiments with Stifel fabric. This shirt will be hitting us this January. Based on a classic western shirt by Roebucks, press studs, slanted pockets, yellow contrast stitching. Perfect for anyone looking to up their denim quota in the coming months.

Workers return with a new selection of goods. The Japanese company holds a place in our hearts with its no-nonsense approach to repros. This time round they are offered two shawl collared deck jackets, one in pinstripe, one in brown herringbone; USN shirts in chambray and khaki green; a 70z cotton tool bag, and two selvedge ties. Everything is made to order, inspired by the original as well as the wealth of knowledge accrued by the label.

Hit the site and click on the ‘Work Clothing‘ section to see where these Workers are coming from.

Click for images

The CPO is the king of the shirt/jacket hybrid and if anyone can offer a solid take on this standard it’s Japan’s Workers. This one leans more towards the jacket with the two front slant pockets and wider body, plenty of room for layering on colder days. Runs of each item are limited so grab this while you can.

More looks after the click.

A step back to the land of heritage for a moment with a look at this repro from the very excellent Workers, Japan line. They took an original tool bag when way back when and accuratelt reproduced the model using superior stitching, canvas, and leather applications that reinforce the hell out of a pretty indestructible bag. Serious business for those looking for a beat-all bag. Back again after some time.

More looks after the click.

K & TH (better known as Workers Japan to many in the West) delivers more authentic examples of classic wear as discovered through ephemera of a time past. Their leather ring belts are hand-made in the Workers workshop and are available in black and brown leather with brass ring closures.

More looks after the click.

Workers Japan delivers another set of authentic garments pulling from some American heritage – the old heritage, not the new stuff. This 1904 jacket features  three pockets, metal buttons, and is made from cotton linen. The real deal.

More looks after the click.