It’s already the second month into the new year. We apologise for falling short on recent updates, especially ongoings with the store since we closed it in late March 2023. Our last stop at Great World, Singapore was a brief eight months, but with many interesting small events and forming of new relationships.
We have thought to take a break from physical retail until better opportunities within the landscape arises. Since then, we have also started to drop some of the brands and to pay more attention to our own and a selected few such as Syunbougama, Isamu Noguchi, etc. Without the operations, we focus on maintaining the store online and looking deeper at brand developments and to working with external retailers as well.
Original Illustrations of Samsui Women
While balancing these, we also formed a humble boutique agency / studio to extend the valuable experiences and skillsets beyond our own works to a group of discerning clientele that may be seeking an alternative; something different for their brands / campaigns. More of what we do can be found here.
Experiential Setup
Floral Arrangement
Ambassador Uniform
Ambassador Jacket
One of projects that is close to heart for us would be the one working with the global brand house from Beam Suntory NYC to develop a new brand identity & communication territory for Suntory Whisky - Kakubin.
10 years ago, we held our first Biro showcase in Raffles Hotel, supported by Suntory Kakubin. 10 years on, we lent our creative vision to the well-loved Japanese whisky brand which celebrated its 100th year of brilliance & spirit of ‘kodawari’. Click here to read more on that particular project.
Key Visual Global
Key Visual - Lifestyle
Ambassador Jacket
Experiential Conceptualisation
Experiential Design
Collaterals & Video
A casual afternoon of meeting like minded individuals and learning more about the latest cafe book from the author Wahyuni Hadi and tasting of the 3 variation of coffee beans roasted by the selected cafe listed in the book.
Wild at heart and free spirited. The individual that runs his own life, not affected by society conformities, textbook theories and opinions of others. He simply walks the talk; continue to be curious everyday; lead the life he picture in the most carefree and fashionable manner he could.
An Autonomous Individual - is a coalition of the blueprints and products we have accumulated in the last months. While SHOTEN started out to be experimental, the pieces were designed to be deliberate, intentional and unassuming. They are expressions in their purest forms, meant to be genderless and suitable for all season.
An Autonomous Individual is now available online and in store. Shop The Collection
It has been quite a number of summers since our world took on a much radical change. On top of all the changes; the tangible or the intangible, the toll on well-being and relationships is very real. From family to friends, colleagues, business partners, marriage couples and so on. Some of which drifted, while some continue to face challenges. Fortunately, there are also those that grew closer and stronger after the adversities plus some newly found relationships as well.
The strain faced would be due to various reasons for different people, household and work environment. While we get too overwhelmed with the happenings around the world and the problems at hand, we shouldn’t forget to be good to ourselves. For, when we are able to take care of ourselves, we can then take care of others.
This summer has been blazingly fast with too many tasks on our plate. However, it also felt like a great reset as we recalibrate our well-being and realign our goals and visions.
Following are some images taken while on a summer vacation with family in Okinawa, Japan. The cooling sea breeze has helped made the otherwise hot and humid season alittle more comforting. The scenes of blue and green throughout calm the soul.
To mark the start of an new era for our company and through the journey that we have embarked on since 2007, our retail store has renamed from shouten to MO.store; massiveoutfitstore.
Home to brands such as biro, Shoten, Masteryatelier, Tenos, Ishinomaki, Meetee, Industry+, Ronan Bouroullec, Hiroshi Nagai, HMM, Isamu Noguchi, Alex Besikian, Saint Rita Palor, Les Belles Heures and more, we continue to introduce and offer products with a artisanal value and meaningful story to tell. Our intention of the space is also to showcase collaborations of multiple creative disciplines to bring to our customers refreshing and interesting content.
We look forward to your continued support as we work to elevate the space promoting fashion, lifestyle, art, design, music, living and community.
During the mid-1930s, a wave of Chinese female immigrants of about 200000 in numbers arrived in Singapore to work in various employment such as labourers in tin mines and rubber estates; domestic servants and as general labourers - referred to as samsui women. They would carry out work at construction sites, clearing debris and transporting building materials with led to contribution of constructions such as the Supreme Court, Bank of China building, the former Asia Insurance Building (Ascott Raffles Place today), Toa Payoh Estate and Bishan Station.
At work, they are dressed in dark blue blouse and pants set called samfoo, accompanied by a bright red, starched square piece of head-dress which enabled them to be more visible on the dangerous work sites. Some would wear a blue version instead if they are from the Sun Yap region in China. Their footwear were typically rubber cutouts fro used tires with additional straps.
Throughout their time in Singapore, they let a frugal life and were very thrifty. Many of them traded their youth to work in Singapore in order to send money back to China to their families. Majority of them did not have any family here and left their husbands and children back in China. Samsui women work well into their 70s with some returning to China while some stayed on in Singapore after retirement.
The idea behind this shirt was made during the last 2 years of the pandemic. Times were challenging, businesses for many were unpredictable. There were also a lot of perspectives on how different entities govern and dealt with the pandemic situation. These entities includes, nations, businesses and to individuals. Some faired well, some fell greatly. Stemming from such a diverse heritage but with an international perspective and despite being small, we were able to overcome the odds and never back down.
This is the first time we are introducing original prints to our line. We worked with local artist Zixi to translate our idea onto fabric through her brushworks. We find that these prints of Samsui women symbolises strength, resilience and hardwork to help build the foundation of what Singapore stood for since and till today. May we continue to carry on this spirit to overcome whatever adversities we might face.
The F. Classic Samsui Women Shirt is now available online and in store. Shop Here
Made to have a sleek, sharp and precise aesthetic; the F. CLASSIC Artisan has released a black edition. Within our cognitive thoughts, this achromatic scheme has always been a basic; a foundation. Safe and unwavering in the sea of almost-spoilt and too good to be true choices. With a little touch of detail to the overall design, it remains simple yet effortlessly chic.
Almost the classic crew-neck black t-shirt, except with stitches running across to give it a more than basic look. Made from Tsuriami (Loopwheel) fabric and constructed with traditional machineries, this t-shirt feels soft on the skin, is breathable and would withstand multiples wash and wear without going out of shape.
The F. Classic Artisan T Black is a pre-order item, order before 12th Jun to receive by 10th July. Pre-order pieces are at 10% discount off retail price. Thank you for the support as this ensures that we are able to devote optimal time and resources into the actual production of a high-quality and environmentally friendly product. Producing on demand is also aligned with our sustainability effort and our vision to reduce wastage. Shop Here
2013, fall. It was around that time when we launched biro first collection. Titled “Undefined Yearnings”, amongst the line was a plain white t-shirt made of the famous loop-wheeled fabric, otherwise known as - Tsuriami in Japan. From a far, it is a white t-shirt, but up-close, it is a patched t-shirt with white on white stitches.
Championing in the choice of premium fabric is one of our most unique selling point. And Tsuriami has some very deep heritages and values that coincides with our brand beliefs very much. It was after 6 years, that we have then work on this fabric again as seen here.
In the face of pandemic, many of the factories and fabric supplier that we have been working with were badly affected but we continued to take the less travelled road. We went on to hunt for factories that possesses the know-how for a Tsuriami garment and able to deliver the impeccable standards we have always seek for.
Another year plus long from conceptualisation to design and to fit. We again, have spent too much time on the research and development simply, just to bring you the best from us.
F. Classic - Fundamental, Forever and Future. For those whom have been with us from the beginning and experienced the transition, thank you. For those that has known biro only in the recent years, we are constantly pushing for new frontiers with our elevated brand philosophy. We are not merely a brand. We are a friend, a partner that will continue to grow in each others company.
FUNDAMENTALS
Back-to-basics through the starting foundation of biro at a supremely high level of quality craftsmanship. This is origin. .
FOREVER
The eternal theme that transcends time, like a texture, aesthetic is everlasting.
FUTURE
Established now and relevant in the future delivering sustainability in its true form.
biro F. CLASSIC Artisan T (2022) is the re-mastering of the 2013 piece that we have been eager to share with everyone. We have previously exhibited it during July 2021 at the Milan Design Week for its - Mindful Consumption theme and this coming July at Asian Civilisation Museum for the SGFASHIONNOW initiative.
As highlighted before, Tsuriami 吊り編み – is a type of loopwheel knitting machine originally developed in Italy, then perfected in Japan during the early 20 century. Each machine runs on 1000 needles that are painstakingly hand-set and consistently checked through by skilled workers.
The fabric used by the factory hang knitting machines has a unique texture and is more than twice as strong as the latest machine-made fabrics. Furthermore, the hand-operated sewing process produces three-dimensional T-shirts that conform to the body in a way that is different from those of a flat machine sewing.
We were particularly inspired by how this Tokyo based factory’s understanding of fabric characteristics, such as yarn thickness, appropriate machine count, effect with fabric width, fabric stretch and needle holes, is at a level that allows them to be trusted as a cut and sewn specialist.
“This is simplicity at its finest. The material, craftsmanship, human attachment and story. Not trying to make a perfect T-shirt, but the F. CLASSIC shirt embodies the spirit and values of our brand.” - biro
The F. Classic Artisan T is now available online. Shop Here
The season of change, the beautiful deep autumn approaches as we come close to the last two weeks of 2021.
A poetic sight of changing trees and falling leaves, prepping us to get ready to reboot, refresh and deal with whatever come may. It will be amazing.
We took this chance to capture the last autumn beauty along with some new styling looks with the clothes.
Enjoy.
“If you have to live with uncertainty, you may as well pursue what you care about deeply.”
Share a thought - Monogram wallets, key necklaces from MASTERYATELIER for a more personal touch this holiday season.
Order by 8th Dec to receive before Christmas. Shop MASTERYATELIER here
The weather has cooled down recently. And for some countries, the first snowfall has also been ushered in.
And shoten seemingly fits the right theme for this time of the year. Apart from sunny Singapore, China and Japan are the markets that are season sensitive and where we have to pay particular attention to when designing for their weather. For the next coming months, lets look at how to wear, keep warm and be stylish in winter? Let's see how to go about it from the single products and collections that we have selected :)
In winter, if you are looking for a fabric that has a distinctive style and warmth, it must be corduroy.
Since there is denim on denim, why don't we give a try to corduroy on corduroy? Sure enough, such combinations could bring on double of that style factor required, corduroy jacket + corduroy wide-leg pants, both with patchworks, no gender restrictions in design and cut, men and women bring on their own unique styles.
The corduroy fabric is durable and doesn’t get dirty easily. It remains fresh during the journey or after a long day. The unique feature of the corduroy set is that it is made of two different corduroy fabrics in collage, with subtle differences other than the color to show it's details.
The most exciting part of the pants is the straight cut, cuffed length design that allows both maturity and casualness. Who wouldn't want to live more comfortably as they age? The four front and back pockets together with the color blocks make the pants functional, comfortable, easy to wear and unique in style. There are two colorways for two different set feelings.
As much as we love the ageing in denim fabric, corduroy has the same characteristic, it will add an old and retro texture it has been worn for some time.
Corduroy Patched Jacket Shop Here
SHOTEN is led by Singaporean designers Kage Chong and Kenghow living in Japan and Singapore respectively. The cross-cultural background of the designers and partners from Japan, Singapore and China makes SHOTEN a three-dimensional lifestyle fashion label.
In the era of rapid change, regaining the long forgotten popular culture, making it the basis of aesthetics and visuals, reinterpreting modern clothing with expressions that encourage craftsmanship and the appreciation of details.
SHOTEN reimagined long coat, the large lapel and the two-tone color-blocking traditional Garbadine fabric establish the sense for the design. The knee length long coat is chic, elegant and comes with a detachable waistband that also double-sided with different color patch and can be matched however you like.
After wearing it for some time, the most exciting part of this coat is the curved lines presented at the opening. It is very sensational from various angles. The long coat is also enough to deal with the breeze and drizzle in any city you might be in. Style it with a sweater and a hat, not only does it make the shape more visible, but it help deal with the rain. So, why bother to bring an umbrella with you?
Color Block Long Coat Shop Here
Tailoring keeps the body visually slender. Each angle has a different point of view, sets of beautiful lines, or surprises from the color matching. Dancing with the hem and belt. You can always rely on the unique charm of the long coat.
Finally, in the warmer winter, there are indispensable items that are full of styles for single wear or layer wear: the hoody has a street taste, but not losing the “Understated Elegance" (Japanese Katakana on the back) essence.
Katakana Reflective Hoody Shop Here
Lastly, different latitudes and locations have different winter conditions. Where is your city? Welcome to share.
The days are getting cooler as we slip into autumn. There's an unexplainable kind of bliss lingering in the air. Little did we realise, as the time continue to fly by and for the following months to come. Some experiences will never be the same ever.
May your daily life always be sunny with an occasional cool breeze. And those that you love and love you are always by your side.
Whichever phase of life we may be in. Take this time to indulge alittle and celebrate the little victories in life. Take our time to relax and recharge, for a new chapter awaits.
A stylish yet quaint and peaceful district just south of Shibuya. Daikanyama is home to a number of good looking - music bars, coffee places, eateries, designer fashion boutiques, bookstores and galleries.
Could still remember how mesmerised I was by Daikanyama when I first visited Japan. Thought it would be the most appropriate place to have our first store if we do have one. Some years after, though not our own space, one of the first store that we partner with, is indeed from Daikanyama.
As we approaches A/W, we paid a visit to our stockist to stock up on items for the new season. A great day to be out. And this time, to have Kage snapping along his way to Daikanyama - Inefficient.
Located in the northern part of Shibuya, Yoyogi-Uehara area offers various crafted coffee roasters and upscale stores for imported wines and designer labels.
Approaching the last of summer, we took some time out to explore the trendy streets of Yoyogi.
4 years ago this time, I made one of the most memorable trip in my life. A trip to Mount Bromo and Ijen in Surubaya, Indonesia.
It was a 4 days 3 nights long trip with some of my favourite people. As they have made the planning and bookings, all I did was to just follow suit and unsure about the greatest adventure that was about to unfold. It was deemed an adventure for multiple reasons, not just the fact that we are going to climb a volcano; there were the early wee hours breakfast at the airport, the 8 hours bus ride to the destination from the surubaya airport, the games, the silly remarks along the trip, the very bad conditioned hotels stayed, the exploration of native Indonesian cuisine, the beauty of the dusks and dawns, the hike itself, the harshness of the cold up the mountain, the sight of “the blue lava”, the pungent sulphur smell, the donkey / motorbike / jeep rides, the waterfall, the fall I had, the number of gadgets brought along and lastly more importantly, the company, joy, fun and laughter.
Some years have passed, many things have changed. But the feeling of those memories remains pure and constant. I love mountain climbing and is always excited about the unknown, the uncertainties that each journey would offer. Every trip I’ve made so far, usually includes a mountain climb or at least a hike. Yes, even when I have brought on several luggages for fashion tradeshows overseas. Packing for a couple of days out in nature is a standard practice.
This particular trip, I was captivated by the textures observed of earth’s natural formations. There were these intricate details in those surfaces, cracks and folds. Just like how we appreciate the texture of the fabric used for our clothings, these textures were probing me to make something out of them. Initially, all we knew was to turn the images taken into print that can maybe help to beautify a wall. Then some years later, who would have thought that these archives could resurface to provide inspiration to a whole new project.
Since two years ago, we have been working with more local artists, makers and producers to develop more product range thats locally made for the store. While learning more about pottery and how different makers can have distinctly unique styles, we chance upon one and with the right materials, we would be able to achieve the textural effects of what I have imagined from my little adventure.
The past becomes a texture, an ambience to our present - Paul Scott
For interested parties, please shop here
These versatile pieces are suitable for indoor spaces. They can be used as a seat, table or sculpture. Colours can be customised.
We met sometime in 2017 at our first shouten store, when we were still tucked away in a little unassuming corner in a dated building along Kitchener Road. We happed to be one of the few creatives in the district and got invited to join the "1KM" initiative organised by Industry+.
It was pretty much one of our first collaborative work with a different creative discipline. Karyn and PC in the furniture trade and us in the fashion business. As our relationship stretches over the years, we have turned from collaborators to eventually friends. We have always enjoyed work with creatives from other discipline and to explore the industry that was more unknown to us.
Cloud is a collection of furniture designed and built in Singapore.
It was designed during the time when Covid-19 first reached the shores of Singapore, and the country in its version of a lockdown. In that time of chaos, Karyn felt the need for her designs to be minimal yet functional to create calm environments for users to feel at ease in.
Cloud Stool
Cloud Detail
Cloud Stool - Blue
Cloud Stool - Blue
This collection is built in plywood, with colour applied in a gradient to bring visual lightness to the pieces. The curved edges of the stools and table rest firmly on the ground, and transition upwards to reveal the characteristic stripes of plywood layers.
These versatile pieces are suitable for indoor spaces. They can be used as a seat, table or sculpture. Colours can be customised.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Karyn is an industrial designer based in Singapore. Her focus is on luxury objects, furniture, and craft. She honed her craft in Singapore, Paris, and Lausanne, and has worked under the mentorship of contemporary design greats Erwan Bouroullec and Sabine Marcelis. Her work has been exhibited in Milan, Hong Kong and Tokyo, and featured in various design and lifestyle magazines.
It must have been about 4 years now, since Yusuke stepped into our store back in French road. A unassuming Japanese guy, soft spoken and perpetually carrying a smile on his face. From a customer turned friend, we shared common beliefs and the same appreciation for quality made products and in his case, more significantly; Soba.
Using only 100% buckwheat, Healthy Soba Iki is all about enriching lives with delicious and healthy food that is affordable at the same time.
Yusuke had founded his business in Aug 2013 and started store operation from Jun 2014 onwards. Since then, he has been working at the store relentlessly from 7.30am till almost 11.00pm, 6 days a week. One would find it hard to imagine leaving your family back in Japan, venturing into a foreign place and staying on for years.
Yusuke's goal was clear and simple. He wants to expand Japanese Soba (food) culture and to stay connected with Singapore through his business and passion. He always find joy is being able to make his customers happy through what he does. Occasionally, he would also introduce his japanese friends who might be interested in Singapore businesses to the local network that he has built over the years.
Due to the recent pandemic situation, we have also come to understand how badly his business was affected as the shop is located in the prime of our central business district at Rafflees Place. Despite the odds, Yusuke pressed on and continue to introduce good quality and value produce from Japan into Singapore through his store. In recent months, he has included fine wines, sake and selected dairy products to his restaurant menu.
Many may not have known this, Yusuke was a Brazilian Football League player during his prime time in the 90s. Today, he runs his business through the beliefs and experiences he has gotten as a football player. Constantly thinking of strategies to his business tackling the issues behind the differences in culture and senses of values in things.
Healthy Soba IKI is located at: 1 Raffles Place #04-47 One Raffles Place, Singapore, 048616
Located in Hanegi Park, Setagaya. A plum festival (ume matsuri) is hosted on a yearly basis. Although its known to be a small park, there is over 600 blooming plum trees each time. If not for the cover situation, there would normally be vendors selling plum-themed food products and performances.
There would be times where we crave for a piping hot ramen soup. Could be due to a cold weather, the familiar settings of the store, the chef himself, the broth and ingredients used, the texture of the ramen itself and so on. We have our go-to ramen place to fill our stomach and to warm our heart.
I have relocated to Japan for close to 1.5 years now. And in Tokyo, there is this particular ramen store I frequent. I would visit it on a random winter day, at times with my friends, at times after a basketball game or after my dance sessions.
A notable restaurant opened in the fiercely competitive ramen area along Setagaya Dori on 1st June last year. Tanaka Lobo serves a soup stock made from niboshi sea bream. Dried sardines, horse mackerels, and mackerels are standard ingredients for ramen soup stock, but it is rare to find a restaurant that uses dried sea bream for its soup stock. They take their time to soak up the flavor over two days and nights (48 hours) to bring out all the mellow aroma and high quality flavor unique to sea bream.
The owner of the ramen store used to be a professional photographer. Due to his profession, he has taken several food images for his job. He has eaten at more than 5000 ramen restaurants all over the country and even made his own ramen.
And the main reason why he chose to be a ramen chef is because he was thinking to have a second life after he turns 50, he felt that there is nothing better than to become a ramen chef.
Tanaka Lobo is located at: 3 Chome-8-15 Sakura, Setagaya City, Tokyo 156-0053, Japan
Sometimes we undervalue the significance found in reaching out.
Ideas do not come out of the blue, and it is usually through purposeful conversations with people we respect or admire. Thus we are specifically intentional when it comes to creating new and meaningful collaborations.
Sarah was no exception; she is a poised and creative mother during her young days. She embraced the uncertainty today, and we were hoping to help her revive the real joy as a florist again.
The opportunity came when we worked with slowlivecreate to turn her illustrations into physical floral arrangement for one to enjoy within the comfort of his/her home.
Delivery before 12th Feb, place your order here.
]]>
In the past, we used to flip through Japanese magazines religiously, particularly the street snaps section to check out the fashion inspirations by the stylish everyday-Japanese on the street. With the current Covid situation, fashion in Japan has taken a drastic hit, as with all aspects of their daily lives.
Our work and network have always revolved heavily around Japan, especially Tokyo. It is not an understatement to say that a large part of our visual influence comes from this city. Sadly, with an unusual 2020, a lot has halted.
Coming into 2021, we are reliving those precious lost moments in 2020 with our latest SS2021 drop for SHOTEN. With a nod to nostalgia, we invite you to join us in wandering through the familiar streets of Tokyo through our latest series of campaign imagery - A Retrospective Storyboard.
SHOTEN is a fashion and lifestyle label that stems from a multi-cultured background. Nostalgia forms the inspiration for the brand as well as this campaign, and it is seen through new lenses to provide a fresh perspective - the end visuals are reinterpreted into fashion apparels to engage and empower the wearer.
Shibuya - Clear As Spring
There is an abundance of trendy shops in Shibuya. Given the rising prevalence of online shopping, would shopping like how we know it become a thing of the past?
Meguro - Overcast
Nostalgia is not about reviving the past but a commemoration of having personally lived through the experience with your heart.
Trends and lifestyles are rapidly vanquishing with time, like the record that we once cherished.
Yoyogi - Clear As Spring
We ought to look forward to what the future holds. But we should also never forget to look into the past. The poetic tension between the two evokes rich artistic inspiration. To us, Tokyo sits comfortably at the juncture of past meets future; a city that is bursting with limitless possibilities, riding on memories of the present past.
Corduroy Patched Jacket (Black) Shop Here
About SHOTEN
A piece of music, film, photography, place, experience, mood, an era, even the weather could evoke a feeling and make us crave a moment in the past. Nostalgia - the notion of longing, is an essential human emotion that can empower an individual through invoking positive correlations of connection, optimism, confidence and happiness. Past experiences can help deliver greater meaning for the present, a connection between where you have been and where you are today.
Nostalgia is the starting point of SHOTEN. Japan, Singapore, China, South East Asia - the cross-cultural influence experienced by the designers makes the brand a multi-dimensional lifestyle and fashion brand. In an era of rapid change, we seek to reignite the glory of the old pop culture and letting it form the basis of the collection’s aesthetics and visuals; modern clothing are reinterpreted with expressions that draw attention to finer details and craftsmanship.
For more information and details on the collection, shop here.
]]>
A brand derived from the expression and communication of beauty and aesthetics through meticulous attention to detail. Conceptualizing with an emphasis on contemporary culture, art and craft, signature designs are developed.
Making goods with hands provides a sense of self-worth, authenticity and a deep sense of human connection.
Made in Japan, each product is handcrafted by a single artisan using the finest material. Hand-painted, burnished and line creased edges; saddle stitching the entire product. Masteryatelier is committed to the practicing of traditional leather-crafting techniques, an unimpeachable sophistication.
Branch
Brown Cotton
CLEAN series.
A concept revolving around minimalist and contemporary design while maintaining the traditional art form of leather-crafting.
Clean Small Goods
Clean Small Goods
In this CLEAN series, Masteryatelier uses full vegetable tanned bridle leather from Himeiji, Japan. These leathers are pit tanned with natural ingredients and coated with multiple layers of oil and wax for an enhanced durability and character. Waxed leather improve water repellent property and the wax substance give a smoother surface finish.
Facility
Tanning Drums
White speckles of wax can be seen sitting on top of the leather, this make self-polishing easily and develop a beautiful patina compare to unfinished leather.
Individually crafted, these manually handmade pieces are minimalist designed and exhibit a deeper connection to human made products.
100% Handstitched
Genderless
For the start of the year, we would like to bring to your attention these specially curated products by the design firm nottuo, Japan.
"drill" - is an experimental project whereby it's idea is in repeated training/drilling so as to achieve a more precise and valuable outcome.
A semi-DIY stool that you assemble and use. This stool (lauan plywood, basswood plywood) is part of a series of furniture made by assembling only three parts.
All parts of the Rn series are made of plywood components mechanically cut out by CNC routers and then handcrafted to precise dimensions one by one by Japanese woodworkers. Therefore, it can be assembled and disassembled as many times as needed for repeated use.
It is delivered unpainted, so you can use it as it is, or you can paint, oil, or varnish it to your liking. If you are using it at home, you can save space by taking it apart for storage or transportation when you move or don't use it. Originally conceived for use in restaurants, we commercialized it with drill project. If you like DIY, you can paint it with your original color and use it in your restaurant, or use it for display in your store.
Rn Stool - Joint
Rn Stool - Oil Finished
Rn Stool - Living Room
Rn Stool - Studio
A semi-DIY bench that you assemble and use.
The following is a two-seater bench from a series of furniture made by assembling only four parts. The chair can be assembled without using nails or screws, and is delivered unpainted, so you can use it as is or paint, oil, or varnish it to your liking.
Rn Bench
Rn Bench - Close Up
mn Series - A vessel between art and tool.
The mn series was born through the process of making things with artists. It is a series of vessels with a characteristic high base, designed by the designer and made by the artist with his own hands. The designs are simple and industrial, but because they are not made with molds for mass production, but are made one at a time with hand techniques using the potter's wheel, each piece is a little unique.
mn Small Bowl
mn Tea Cup
mn Plate
Easy to use size for plate dishes and pasta
The mn series platters are designed with an upright rim to prevent overflowing when using dressings and sauces. The size is just right for a variety of dishes, such as breakfast plates, grilled dishes, and pasta.
Today marks the day where our society opens up again and bringing our community back to a time where we were more familiar with. Before it all happened, most of us may not know what to expect and how to pass our 3 months in solidarity with the uncertainties.
During the course, most of us adapt and learn to work through things in a different approach. Our way of engaging with one another took a change; tele-commuting for work purposes via various app became the norm. While being confined within the walls of our home, we try to make the space as conducive as possible to carry out activities for both recreational and work. More webinars surfaced and we attend digital seminars more than ever before. Some businesses have also switch to being home offices permanently. For some individuals, they would have picked up a new skill in gardening, cooking, baking, knitting, etc.
As we watch the world evolves, there were more and more mentions about a new-normal, and that we do not expect things to go back to the way they used to be.
If this pandemic was suppose to be a lesson for us all, have we made out of it differently? Has it affect each of us meaningfully to make us continue to strive to be better? Has our way of thoughts and lives changed dramatically? Or are we just the same being from the same pre-covid era?
From a fashion, lifestyle, retail business stand-point, and during such quiet times, we appreciate the luxury or time and space that is available for us to take a step back to re-evaluate, re-think and re-invent ourselves to bring new alternatives and values that we care about to our consumers and friends.
As always, all kinds of experiences would contribute to the relentless and creative mind. It was a surreal experience to be taking a walk on the unusually quiet streets of Singapore some weeks back, bearing in mend that this could well be a once in a lifetime experience.
How do you wear your raw denim depends down to the wearer. Since this is a pair of raw denim (untreated and unwashed), it is relatively stiff when you purchased and wear it for the first time. The fabric will get softer after a few weeks of regular wear and would mould to your body shape after a longer period of usage.
Coffee and music have always been the elements that fill the shouten store. And through it, we have the pleasure to hold meaningful conversations with many of our customers whom gradually became friends. We have always enjoyed these stories that continue to inspire us to seek out interesting work together and to bring our community closer together.
During these uncertain times, we are finding ways to learn how different creatives can come together to help and promote one and other in a meaningful way that will help bring fresh insights and positive energy for change.
Many individuals would be sheltering in, some may live alone, some may be spending a lot more time with their folks, and some with family and kids. We would like to take this time to talk alittle about coffee and its’ culture and how life’s simple pleasures can still be re-discovered while staying home.
For this edition, we speak to POK from fivefingermountain about his day-to-day job, and his other passions.
ST: Please tell us alittle bit about yourself.
POK: I am really the sum of many parts. Part filmmaker, self-publisher, coffee lover, bizarre plant enthusiast and much much more. I can’t really sit still, there’s not a day that goes by without me pursuing a new idea or project.
ST: What are the things that bring you joy?
POK: So many. A plant sprouting a new leaf. The sound of the first crack when roasting coffee. The crackling sound on a record player. Having thick toast in an old kissaten.
fivefingermountain Coffee Beans
Hand Roasted In Small Batches
ST: What made you want to start fivefingermountain?
POK: Purely to publish Tokyo Cafe. I needed a good reason to go back to Tokyo regularly. And I was really surprised by the good reception I got for the cafe books, so much so that fivefingermountain sort of stands for having this leap of faith and for being fearless.
ST: What inspired you to start roasting your own coffee?
POK: On my travels throughout Tokyo and Kyoto, I met so many coffee roasters that really inspired me to start my own coffee roasting journey. Creating flavours and aromas that I like makes roasting really fun.
ST: How did you get to know Shouten?
POK: I stay quite close to where Shouten’s previous shop location - Kitchener Complex. I stumbled across them an afternoon after my regular swim. Besides apparel, they had this small corner that was dedicated to lifestyle goods. There were a copper dripper, a kettle, some really beautiful delicate coffee cups. I bought some of these items and you could say that coffee brought us together.
ST: What do you think best come out of this collaboration?
POK: I’ve known Kage and Kenghow for quite a while and I’m really impressed by their attention to detail. We have quite a bit of common interests, we have always wanted to do something together and I really hope that this could be the start of many collaborations.
Shouten has recently brought in a line of HMM [Human - Mechanic - Method] products that specialised in high quality and finely crafted coffee ware to accompany your choice of coffee blend from fivefingermountain for your stay home enjoyment, or send it as a gift to your loved ones!
Hi there, this is kenghow. Together with my brother Kage, we run the Singapore based, Made in Japan, menswear label.
This September marks the 5th anniversary of the brand and we would like to take this chance to recap, re-introduce the story and spirit behind it. What kind of a brand is biro?
Courtesy of Monocle
biro Aloha
“We have spent 3 years on R&D, before founding the brand.”
Maybe Singapore is not exactly the best spot to start a fashion label, but what to do when we simply want to see a change in the industry? Since 2010, when we first decided to start a label, we have travelled across Asia, visiting 10 over factories and fabric mills to do our research. However, the outcome wasn’t satisfactory.
After many disappointments, we had our sights turned towards Japan, emailed more than 20 factories and eventually knocking on their doors. This is when we finally come to know of a few smaller factories located in suburban Japan. Despite their size, their clients include Comme Des Garcons, Vivienne Westwood Japan, Levis Vintage Clothing Japan and so on. Back then, we have little knowledge how the industry work. But before we can allow another dejection or failure to put us off, we knew we had to at least give it a shot. We have never looked back or elsewhere since then. That was how we opened doors to Japanese manufacturing.
And of course, not all Made In Japan products are guaranteed excellent. The first sample we received was far from our expectation. This is when kage took from his collection, a pair of high quality Japanese made denim to show it to the factory and expecting more out of them; “Although I am a designer from Singapore, but I demand the products made to match up to the quality of other Japanese fashion labels.”
Hence, we continue to search, trial and erred. Spending 3 years on this research and development journey. If you do not have your own insistence, no matter what good tools you possess, they are useless.
“MADE IN JAPAN, the touch of quality always takes precedence over cost and efficiency”
Our mum used to be a seamstress. From young, we enjoyed following her to get fabrics and materials, watching her create a piece of dress from scratch. Perhaps, this is how we developed a critical eye in the fashion sense. We understand the importance of how small details contribute to the overall aesthetics of the clothing and nurtured the value of craftsmanship deep in our heart since then.
Many people do ask, there are several convenient ways to produce clothing at a much cheaper and effective way, why choose Japan that is known for its high cost and slow manufacturing?
It's not hard to find the answer to that question. The key would be - human touch. The development and perfection of craftsmanship is of paramount importance in all age-old traditions of Japan. For example, we use one of the world’s rarest fabric - Tsuriami (Loopwheel), which is produced in only 2-3 factories in the southeastern coast of Japan; Wakayama. The vintage machineries, rotate around cylinders to create layers and layers of cotton at an rate of 24 times per minute, producing only 1 meter of fabric per one hour. This results in a fabric thats remarkably soft, durable and with a sturdy texture of the forties and fifties. The craftsmen pay close attention to the entire supply chain, and the touch of quality always takes precedence over cost and efficiency.
Tsuriami Ki
Natural Indigo Cotton
The work atmosphere in Japan is incredible. Always enjoying the long discussions, pattern making sessions, and going through bouts of setbacks together with the different factories accompanied by their family and friends over some drinks. This not only builds our relationship but throughout the process, it also let us understand better what kind of products we are actually looking for and to obtain the best solution out of it.
Our intention was to communicate such experiences and culture to our customers and friends through our products.
“Brand interpretation of Simple Elegance”
It didn’t take us very long to set the brand name biro, inspired by the Hungarian László József Bíró. The ballpoint pen, also called biro pen, was invented in the 1930s. The birth of the ballpoint pen greatly promoted the efficiency of human noting down our first inspiration. Perhaps people have forgotten how long and tedious any development process could be, so this is where one of the directions of biro lies. Spending a lot of time to constantly source for world-class materials and production processes, so that consumers can more intuitively resonate with our design inspiration.
All efforts can only be regarded after the brand is launched. We have held events over the years, and as we communicate more with our guests, we had a understanding, our values are truly resonating with individuals that appreciate and understand what we do. This in turn, strengthen our belief of satisfying more discerning consumers who have a requirement for product quality, details and craftsmanship with excellent quality.
The style of biro is never changing - understated elegance, a minimalist approach in design that keeps the focus of the brand on quality, combining carefully sourced premium materials from around the globe with precise tailoring from artisans in Japan.
We hope that the products can stand the test of time, not the trend of the moment. After five seasons, whenever you pick up the pieces from the first, it is still refreshing and not outdated.
Being 5 years old, we have made close to 10 collections till date. Still wearing some of the early pieces and passionate about the future.
Straight Coat With Kasuri Detailing
F. Classic - Tsuriami Tee
“Being recognised is a form of affirmation”
One of the joy in running the label; slowly getting discovered along the journey. Throughout the years, we have won credible acknowledgments from fashion industry leaders both locally and internationally. (e.g. blueprint awards, SFW program and CFDA NYC). Apart from doing some notable collaborations such as STARWARS (Lucasfilm), we have also made our way to be stocked on farfetch.com, one of the most sought after U.K based & international online portal. This year, we have also been selected to represent Singapore to develop a capsule collection with farfetch alongside 6-7 other international designers for its Russia 2018 Worldcup BFFI programme.
We are also always grateful to the various local and international media such as “MONOCLE”, “CEREAL”, “GQ”, HYPEBEAST, “Esquire”, etc, that help spread the word of the brand to more people.
Monocle Magazine
Mens Folio
“Have a look outside, biro is a world language”
After firming our foothold in Singapore, we start to make plans to bring biro to the world. We went to New York, Tokyo, Paris and Shanghai to participate in shows and was able to meet several like minded individuals that share the same values and views. Biro became our language and communication tool with these people from different parts of the world. Something we have not expected nor planned, and it just grew into a experience that is wonderful and truly priceless. This commit us to create products that combine the skills of master artisan from heritage Japan with an international perspective to meet the desires of a new community that seeks a deeper experience.
Pop-up At Japan Festival, Singapore
NY, Storm Jonas
“Realised that we have missed too much after going to China”
Originated as a land of immigrants, our ancestors were from the Hainan province of China. Even though we have gone to trace our roots back in Hainan, we have never set foot in Shanghai before. At the beginning of 2017, after doing our first show in Shanghai, we realised that we have missed out too much.
It may look cold, harsh and dull during March / April, but it was easily one of the most vibrant and energetic city I have visited in Asia (In terms of the fashion industry). Changes happen quickly too, from digital age to ideas of integrated retail experience in merely 6 months.
These come with immerse competition as well; especially from the perspective of a brand coming from a much smaller market with slower pace. An average of more than 1000 designers participate in their fashion week every season.
Luckily, we have a bunch of close knitted friends there that bear the same enthusiasm for the fashion industry. Over in China, the work atmosphere can be regarded as open, limitless, passionate and vibrant. Although the experience differ from those of Japan, we could derive a different kind of joy from the work there. It was totally different from what we had expected before going to Shanghai. We are convinced that this city will develop into another global fashion center in no time and we are glad to be building the presence there for biro.
It has been a 5 years relentless pursuit of a quality and craft focused menswear label. As we continue to embark on this wonderful journey to push boundaries and to get the brand to more places, we appreciate your support all this while. So, thank you! and look forward to more news coming from us!
The natural indigo dyed kasuri shirt comes with fine selvedge detailing within the plackets and gussets, along with contrasting black square out buttons from YKK Japan. Redline indigo selvedge chambray from the most well known mills based in Okayama prefecture Japan. The look, casual grunge with deliberate frayed ends finishes off with a traditonally woven kasuri, hand-stitched onto the body.
Underneath is a vintage orange pullover using dual fleece fabric for a autumn getaway mood. The material is made from air float fleece that allows maximum comfort level, keeping you just warm/cool enough in different climate.
A drawstring denim to match, cut for both style and versatility. Cropped for a elongated silhouette and comes with selvedge contrasting canvas patchwork finishes that stands as an art of its own.
A simple black tee blended from Sea Island cotton and Pima cotton that is special, soft, lightweight and smooth. Except, with the mastery of craftsmen behind the machineries, the formed patchworks of fabric are precise, refine and elegant.
Over the top is the destroyer over-shirt that, with its streaky textured fabric, usage of metal buttons and diamond-shaped pattern stitches. It’s meant for any man to rough out the tough. Run off chainstitches and selvedge red lines at gussets not only adding character to its entire outfit but emphasize detailing and quality workmanship as well.
At the bottom, a pair of 10.5oz light weight selvedge denim in a wider cut that alllows you to enjoy the beauty of raw denim in any weather. Clean and simple it may look, our denim are made with 100% Okayama selvedge cotton denim, chainstitched, 5 YKK JP vintage Buttons fly, and hand branded Horween waxed flesh leather patch.
Shoes: Trickers
]]>Before launching biro in 2013, we spent 3 years doing continuous research & development. A lot of trial and error was involved. We have visited and dealt with several factories across Asia (China, Hong Kong, Indonesia) and most of them delivered poor results. Just when we thought we should dropped the idea, a holiday travel in Japan turned into a business trip as we went knocking on doors of the factories usually residing in the more rural part of the island.
Some of these factories deals with big companies and international brands such as Comme Des Garcons, Vivienne Westwood Japan and Levis Vinatge Clothing Japan etc. It didn't matter that we were just starting out or non comparable to those companies in terms of scale. We just gave a shot anyway.
Many have asked, why must we make the clothes in Japan knowing that the costs are so high. When we decided to make quality menswear back in 2010, we already have an idea of the standard of worksmanship that we are looking for. Maybe we have developed the eye for detailing since young as we would tagged along our tailor mum whenever she goes sourcing for fabric and accessories around central area. We have also watched her make garments from scratch to finish and understood how particular issues on small little details affects the beauty of a product.
Futhermore, a denim enthusiast since 10 years ago. Kage has been collecting some of the best made jeans from around the world, paying much attention to the choice of fabric, stitching, patterns and hardware.
Not coming entirely from a fashion design angle, we tend to skew towards producing well made products. Products that can withstand the test of time, gets better with age and bears a artisanal value with a strong story to tell.
The development and perfection of craftsmanship is of paramount importance in all age-old traditions of Japan. Perhaps many may think that any factories would be able to replicate the same clothes at similar quality and faster with better technology. But the difference is the lack in human touch and the sense of attachment built in every product. Overtime, to us, a well made product not only looks good asthetically, but it involves the uncompromising efforts and careful thoughts of every artisan, with meticulous attention in the entire supply chain during the entire course of production. biro products embodies the pride and spirit of Japanese craftsmanship while delivering the highest accuracy down to the finest details.
From sourcing, cutting, sewing and to the finishes, we strives to blend the traditonal japanese techniques with the revolutionary to give any individual a style of their own. Through its journey and experience, the brand will continue to adhere to high quality manufacturing methods, even anywhere in the world; as long as its resonates the made in japan factor.
]]>
A supporter in many ways, Bestoni has been with the brand since 2 years ago. From a customer turned friend. He comes by occasionally, not only to check out the new products thats out but often with a camera in hand as well.
by biro; sharing a space that is dedicated to quality, hand-crafted products with a strong artisanal story as the core.
What the naked eye misses, the lenses manage to capture it in a vivd, enhanced form that is beautiful in its own ways. Devils in the detail here with the impeccable manufacturing techniques from Japan.
Following will be a short Q&A
KH: Tell us more about yourself and what you do?
B: I work as a IT consultant and is at the same time a aspiring photography enthusiast.
KH: Why did you get into photography, and which camera are you using currently?
B: I'm using the Fujifilm X-Pro 1 with 35mm 1.4 at the moment. Photography is one of the many simple ways to be creative, to create art and to express oneself. It's satisfying at the same time.
KH: Why did you get into photography, and which camera are you using currently?
B: I'm using the Fujifilm X-Pro 1 with 35mm 1.4 at the moment. Photography is one of the many simple ways to be creative, to create art and to express oneself. It's satisfying at the same time.
KH: How would you describe your photography style?
B: I enjoy taking people's potraits with film tones, natural lightings and shadows. Photojournalism is what i am tryign to get to. Visual story telling, being at the right place at the right time.
KH: How do you find time for photography amidst your daily work?
B: Unless there is any special occasion, I would usually go for photowalks on weekends and public holidays.
KH: Will you ever consider photography full-time?
B: I actually do. Got to make it happen at some point.
KH: What are the things here that stir up your interest?
B: I would say that I have a lot of appreciation towards Japanese culture.
KH: What is your relationship with biro?
B: They're one of the few lifestyle influences to me.
KH: What would you like to see more from biro?
B: More surprises? Haha. I think more collaboration projects would be interesting (like what you had with Atomi - Mandarin Gallery Singapore). Lady apparels might be intriguing as well.
Be it a film, piece of music, artform or product, different people relate to them differently. We are just glad to be able to create things and to have likeminded people coming together, share their thoughts and to interect and to understand how they percieve certain things. These experiences are as important to eventually spark something new and possibly more interesting.
Jan 2016. We find ourselves in New York, participating in the highly anticipated Liberty Tradeshow after winning an award from the CFDA during a showcase in Singapore. As always, there were alot left to do with the show just few days away. The first night after landing, we find ourselves heading to a nice little supper club - Fedora off West Village. Meeting our photographer to finalise some concepts for the shoot the very next morning. Exited the subway and were pleasantly greeted by the first snow fall. Somewhat magical, we knew this trip was going to be one hell of a kind.
By morning, the snow has reached our knee level. Thanks to the 2 biro Millerain Bags that possess remarkable enduring capabilities, we made it to the studio with the 30 over clothings intact despite the heavy storm. Arrived, loved the energy and passion everyone exhibited during the cold, harsh New York morning. Ryan whom has a great deal of experience with fashion photography (Details Mag, GQ, etc) along with Noma, a international model, quickly capture the essence of the kind of imagery we are looking for. Clean, crisp and detailed.
In between shoots, we adventured into the snow storm, grabbed coffee, took lunch and having fun in the snow. New York is indeed mesmerizing in every way. After over 3000 shots within 4hours, we concluded our shoot very satisfied and moving on to post production.
We were at the private SOHO House club along the Manhattan Meatpacking District going through the images and narrowing them down to the final 18 or so to be used for editorial and campaigns. Fortunately, Ryan has a really quick way of doing so and within 2 hours or so, we have our images. Final edits done, set for prints and ready for presentation. Looking back, the incredible feat from discussing the shoot, drawing up concepts, searching for models, locking down a model, booking a studio and till the final results of having excellent images in hand, all took place in a mere 1 week.
As we finally get through the tradeshow, it was a remarkable experience. With over 200 brands showcasing in the huge arena and thousands of crowd, there were alot to do in order to stand out. Over the course of 3 days, alot was learnt and we were fortunate to have made new friends, and introduced the label to buyers such as Maleh from Gentry NYC and Chris from Needsupply. Generally, there was a good mix of buyers from all over. And quite frequently, some of them will walk by, paused for a moment to check out the products that we have, give some comments and some; valuable advices.
Overall, this trip has shown and taught us lessons that are valuable in so many levels through the rich experiences and not merely by words or images. Breathtaking in its own ways, NYC, even at its coldest and most harsh season; has captivated us deeply with a want to return quickly and to continue work in this city.