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Today, from the ISO 26SS collection, we introduce two models crafted from uniquely developed Katia silk material: the Katia Silk Long Sleeve Shirt and the
Katia Silk Short Sleeve Shirt.
When actually worn, the lightness of the material and the precise pattern construction are intuitively conveyed, resulting in a stoic finish characteristic of ISO.
Materials and Structures Pursued to the Ultimate, Common to Both Models
Whether long-sleeve or short-sleeve, this shirt series symbolizing this season's ISO is infused with the brand's philosophy and the exhaustive craftsmanship of both Mr. Nishida and Mr. Okaniwa.
The Essence of Clothing Entrusted to the Wearer, Embedded in the Brand Name "ISO"
The brand ISO is formed by Mr. Okaniwa of The Viridi-anne and Mr. Nishida of DEVOA, both of whom have been active at the forefront of the industry for over 15 years.
They divide the processes of clothing design, textile development, and production management, much like band members playing their respective instruments.
This time, Mr. Okaniwa handles the design and Mr. Nishida handles material development. Rather than asserting their individual personalities, their combined experience builds the unique atmosphere of the brand.
As the brand name suggests, the expression (phase) of the clothing changes depending on the resonance between the designers at any given time and the personal style of the wearer.
The philosophy that the creators do not force a specific completed form, but rather present it purely as a high-quality "tool," leaving how to wear it entirely up to the user's freedom, breathes life into this shirt as well.
Thin and Soft, 100% Katia Silk High-Density Material
The core of this shirt is a unique textile finely woven from ultra-fine Katia silk yarn from India.
Despite being as thin as gauze, the high-density weaving of the ultra-fine yarn ensures almost no transparency when worn, while simultaneously securing high breathability.
The only color available is black, but despite being a single black, it features a deep tone where subtle red nuances emerge depending on the reflection of light.
The luster typical of silk is subdued, and neps (yarn knots) appear sporadically on the surface.
The combination of this uneven expression and the hidden redness within radiates a strong presence within the monochromatic black.
A Silhouette Common to Both Models, Created by Ample Body Width and a Shorter Length
Adopted in both the long and short-sleeve models is a loose-fitting boxy silhouette constructed with ISO's unique balance.
By taking a wide body width and providing plenty of room around the armholes and arms, the light texture of the Katia silk does not cling to the skin, realizing an open, breezy fit.
The reason it doesn't feel clumsy despite such a loose design is because the length is intentionally set short.
This exquisite length keeps the center of gravity high even when paired with wide-silhouette pants, keeping the overall look neat and refined.
From the back, all decorative details such as center seams, pleats, and gathers have been omitted, forming a clean appearance that makes the back look broad.
Thanks to this meticulous pattern work, the fabric creates a natural fullness and shadow when worn, balancing a mature, relaxed feel with an elegant presence.
Antibacterial and Softening Processing via Domestic Kneading and Silicone Coating
The fabric is finished through a unique processing step at a factory in Japan.
The tension of the yarn is released through a physical kneading process, producing an extremely soft touch.
When you actually hold it, you will be surprised by how lightweight it is, almost as if you aren't wearing anything.
Easy Care at Home Made Possible by a 3-Time Garment Washing Process
Although 100% silk often carries a delicate image, its ease of use in daily life is also thoroughly considered.
By repeatedly undergoing a washing process three times during the finishing stage, the fabric is shrunk to its limit.
As a result, it is designed to resist significant shrinkage even if washed with water at home after purchase.
Furthermore, by applying a silicone coating, a smooth texture is added while imparting high antibacterial properties.
Even during the sweaty spring and summer seasons, it possesses the practicality to be worn comfortably while maintaining cleanliness.
Long Sleeve and Short Sleeve: Details of Each Model
Built on a foundation of shared dedication, two variations are available.
Katia Silk Long Sleeve Shirt
A long-sleeve model designed with year-round wear in mind.
You can enjoy the loose boxy silhouette and shorter length with the most standard shirt balance.
Because the material is extremely soft, simply rolling up the sleeves casually looks stylish.
From a light outer layer in early spring to an inner piece in early autumn, it is a garment that allows you to experience the texture of Katia silk over the widest area.
A Unique Pattern with Different Front and Back Sleeve Structures and a Clean Back
At first glance, it looks like a simple loose fit, but a highly intricate detail is hidden in how the sleeves are attached.
The front features drop-shoulder set-in sleeves, while the back boasts a unique paneled design with raglan sleeve-like seams.
Side Panel Structure Bringing Jacket Tailoring to a Shirt
Experimental approaches unique to ISO are also hidden in the pattern structure.
While standard shirts typically join the front and back body at the sides, this shirt adds a single "side panel" (a side gusset piece) under the arm.
This is a technique used in jacket making to give the silhouette a three-dimensional effect.
By intentionally adding jacket-like part configurations to a flat shirt, the fabric develops a natural fullness and shadows when worn. This is the reason why, despite being a thin fabric, it exudes a dignified presence when worn.
Katia Silk Short Sleeve Shirt
A short-sleeve model specialized for midsummer climates, pursuing even greater breathability and lightness.
It is designed so that the breeze blows through the wide-set cuffs, allowing you to most directly feel the characteristics of the Katia silk, which has a gauze-like touch despite its high density.
The deep black with red nuances shows an even richer expression under the sunlight.
Perfection Competing Solely on the Power of Material
An open-collar shirt with a loose silhouette can easily give off a "rebellious impression," but there is no such concern with this item.
It achieves an exquisite balance of calm casualness and a moderate relaxed feel, making it a perfect piece for mature men.
By eliminating obvious decorations and competing purely on the power of the material and the brilliance of the pattern, you can feel the mastery of a brand crafted by two veterans with long careers.
Styling the Long Sleeve
From here, we will introduce actual wearing styles.
First is a styling using the long-sleeve shirt.
Utilizing the wide body and shorter length, we recommend a style paired with voluminous wide pants.
Because the center of gravity is raised, the silhouette does not become heavy even when paired with wide pants, coming together in a well-balanced look.
Styling the Short Sleeve: A Light Summer Look Utilizing Breathability
Next is a styling of the short sleeve, which shows its true value in the summer.
The combination of the wide armholes and the highly breathable gauze-like fabric ensures a comfortable fit that lets the breeze through even in midsummer.
Simply pairing it with a single pair of pants completes a style that highlights the excellence of the material and structure.
Staff Fit Guide
As a reference for choosing your size, we introduce the wear impressions from staff members with different body types.
| Staff | Size Worn | Fit Impression |
|---|---|---|
| Staff A (170cm / 62kg) | Size 1 | A perfect, exact fit in Size 1. |
| Staff B (174cm / 68kg / Broad shoulders) | Size 3 | I chose Size 3 due to my broad shoulders. It has a moderate amount of room with absolutely no tightness. |
| Staff C (180cm / 56kg) | Size 3 | Can be worn with good balance in Size 3. It's a fit that allows you to choose Size 3 depending on your preference for length and sleeve length. |
Recap: The Appeal of the Katia Silk Shirts
Finally, let's summarize the key points of the items introduced today.
- Deep black created by 100% Katia silk
- Soft texture and antibacterial function produced by domestic kneading and silicone coating
- Washable at home despite being a silk material, thanks to a 3-time washing process
- A unique sleeve pattern configuration: set-in front, raglan back
- A three-dimensional silhouette incorporating side panels, a jacket tailoring technique
- Available in two models, long-sleeve (L/S) and short-sleeve (S/S), to choose from according to the season and preference
A clear intent resides in every process, from material selection and processing to the background of complex patterns.
Rather than obvious logos, it is a highly perfected garment that purely pursues the "true value of clothing."
Please experience this surprisingly light comfort and the texture that conveys a quiet statement at our stores.
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