Kapital Clothing

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing Items From This Unique Japanese Brand

Kapital is a Japanese clothing brand known for its experimental, reconstructed aesthetics and rugged Americana-inspired designs. With its eccentric styling and reputation for quality, Kapital has become a favorite among fashion insiders and Japanese Americana enthusiasts. But for the uninitiated, purchasing from this unique label can seem daunting. This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know before adding pieces from Kapital to your wardrobe.

A Brief History of Kapital

Kapital was founded in 1984 by Toshikiyo Hirata in Kojima, Okayama – the birthplace of Japanese denim production. The brand is known for sourcing high-quality raw denim fabrics and reconstructing them into avant-garde designs inspired by American workwear and vintage Americana.

Kapital embraces imperfections and irregularities in its garments, elevating them into design features that reflect the artistry and soul of clothing. Its collections feature reconstructed and reworked vintage fabrics, uneven dyeing techniques, and hand-stitched detailing that give each piece a timeworn, one-of-a-kind look.

While Kapital has its roots in denim, the brand has expanded over the decades into a full range of men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, accessories and home goods. It has also collaborated with brands like The North Face, Converse, Nonnative and GANRYU. Kapital continues to be designed in Japan while integrating creative influences from around the world into its unique reconstructed aesthetic.

Kapital’s Key Styles and Collections

Kapital offers an extensive range of products spanning multiple styles and aesthetics. Here are some of its most iconic collections:

• Century Denim: Kapital’s signature hand-dyed, reconstructed denim. These jeans feature extreme fading, repairs, and a rough, vintage workwear look.
• Cisco: Characterized by heavily distressed detailing, the Cisco line has an Americana-inspired, 1970s West Coast vibe.
• Kountry: Kapital’s collection of casual vintage Americana-inspired menswear with work shirts, knits, and casual button-downs.
• Camel: A line of military-inspired clothing drawing inspiration from vintage French military apparel.
• ISETAN: Kapital’s flagship Japanese selvedge denim made in exclusive collaboration with the Isetan Mitsukoshi department store.
• Ring Coat: Kapital’s reconstructed coats and jackets, featuring hand-stitching, ring pull closures, and boro-inspired repairs.
• Kurabo: The women’s denim collection, made from ring-spun denim from Japan’s Kurabo Mills. Featuring advanced vegetable dyeing techniques.
• Americaya: Kapital’s tribute to Native American culture, with moleskin shirts, patched jackets, and Navajo-inspired patterns.
• TEXTILE: Kapital’s premium line integrating indie and vintage fabrics for experimental reconstructed looks.

Where to Buy Kapital Clothing

Kapital operates brand stores in Japan and internationally, but has a limited distribution outside of Asia. Here are some of the best places to buy it:

• Kapital stores: Located in fashion hotspots like Tokyo, Kyoto and Los Angeles. The full range is available.
• Online at Kapital.jp: Kapital’s official Japanese website has worldwide shipping. English orders can be accommodated.
• Rakuten: Japanese e-commerce site with many Kapital products, often discounted. Expect to use a shopping service.
• Denimio: Specializes in Japanese denim, including a wide selection of Kapital jeans. Ships worldwide.
• Blue in Green: NYC-based store focusing on high-end denim and workwear, stocking many Kapital items.
• Self Edge: Several locations in the USA stocking a curated selection of Kapital denim alongside other artisanal brands.
• Cultizm: European online boutique offering a wide array of Kapital clothing, footwear and accessories.
• Corlection: Australian brick-and-mortar and online store that stocks many Kapital collections.

Kapital’s Materials and Fabrics

Kapital utilizes vintage deadstock fabrics, antique ethnic textiles, raw denim and other high-quality materials to create its reconstructed looks. Some signature materials include:

• Vintage Kurabo selvedge denim: Premium Japanese denim milled exclusively for Kapital. Often reconstructed into their signature Century Denim.
• Vintage American denims: Old Levi’s, Wranglers, and other classic American jeans are reworked into Kapital designs.
• Raw 12oz and 14oz selvedge denim: Unwashed Japanese selvedge denim used across many Kapital jeans and jackets.
• Vintage ethnic textiles: Beautiful vintage fabrics from places like Mexico, India and Japan integrated into Kapital collections.
• Mohair knits and cardigans: Mohair wool knitwear adds texture to Kapital’s outerwear and accessories.
• Chambray: For soft, vintage-looking work shirts and bedding. Often reconstructed from antique fabrics.
• Linen and hemp: Natural, breathable summer fabrics employed in Kapital’s relaxed warmer-weather offerings.
• Vintage military and workwear fabrics: Waxed cottons, twills and other durable materials reused from vintage garments.

Kapital’s Approach to Fit

Kapital takes an artisanal, made-by-hand approach to fit. Rather than a perfect match to standardized sizes, most pieces have a relaxed, vintage-inspired fit allowing room to layer. Some tips on Kapital’s fit:

• Most pieces run large for a comfortable, oversized feel. Size down for a trimmer fit.
• Denim is designed to mold to your body; unsanforized jeans will stretch with wear.
• Tops and outerwear have a boxy, Americana-inspired silhouette.
• Model sizes (S/M/L) indicate the Japanese market; size up accordingly if in the US/Europe.
• Women’s pieces lean towards a loose, boyfriend fit. Consult measurements carefully.
• Try items on in person if possible to assess Kapital’s unique approach to sizing. Pieces may fit differently than typical fashion brands.
• Vintage reconstructed items have one-of-a-kind sizing depending on the original materials.

Kapital Clothing Price Range

Expect to pay premium prices, but rest assured Kapital’s clothing is crafted to last. Here’s what to budget when buying Kapital:

• T-shirts: $100 – $250
• Shirts: $200 – $350
• Jeans: $250 – $450
• Jackets & Coats: $500 – $1,000+
• Accessories: $60 – $350
• Shoes & Boots: $350 – $600
• Bags & Backpacks: $350 – $650

Kapital’s limited-edition collaborations and reconstructed vintage pieces can sell for even higher prices approaching luxury fashion levels. Butfocusing on their mainline collections will keep costs down somewhat – you pay for outstanding materials, fabrics, and craftsmanship.

Caring for Kapital Clothing

Follow these care guidelines to keep Kapital pieces looking their best for years:

• Preserve patina in denim and knits; avoid frequent washing and machine drying.
• When cleaning, opt for gentle cycles, cold water, and air drying.
• Iron on medium heat, without steam to avoid watermarking.
• To refresh odor, spot clean problem areas and hang in fresh air rather than washing.
• Look for hand wash and dry clean only garments that require extra care.
• Avoid direct heat which can shrink or damage fibers – especially delicate knits.
• Repair damage with sympathetic, tonal patches rather than throwing items away.
• Let dirt and wear build up naturally; don’t overclean Kapital’s vintage-inspired fabrics.

Kapital Clothing Size Guide

Kapital sizes approximately translate to:

• XXS: Tagged 28 or Size 1
  Fits 21″ – 23″ waist
• XS: Tagged 30 or Size 3
  Fits 23” – 25” waist
• S: Tagged 32 or Size 5
  Fits 25” – 27” waist
• M: Tagged 34 or Size 7
  Fits 27” – 29” waist
• L: Tagged 36 or Size 9
  Fits 29” – 31” waist
• XL: Tagged 38 or Size 11
  Fits 31” – 33” waist
• XXL: Tagged 40 or Size 13
  Fits 33” – 35” waist

Remember, Kapital’s vintage style runs intentionally large. Size down for a modern slim fit, or embrace the oversized vintage workwear aesthetic by choosing your regular size. Check detailed garment measurements when possible.

Reviews of Kapital Clothing Quality

Kapital is almost universally praised by customers for its outstanding craftsmanship and attention to detail. Some thoughts on Kapital’s reputation:

• Superb fabrics and materials: From high-end Japanese selvedge to reconstructed vintage, Kapital uses supremely high-quality textiles.
• Garment longevity: Meticulous, hand-done construction means Kapital jeans, knits and jackets last for many seasons.
• Made in Japan: Products are domestically produced at Kapital’s factories for close quality oversight.
• Vintage appeal: Kapital’s imperfections and patina reflect Japanese boro and wabi-sabi aesthetics appreciated by knowledgeable buyers.
• Designer collaborations: Partnerships with fashion figures like Junya Watanabe validate Kapital’s reputation for premium quality.
• Ethical production: Kapital uses natural dyes and practices ethical manufacturing standards to satisfy conscientious buyers.
• Value for money: While expensive, Kapital’s quality materials and construction justify costs to achieve tremendous longevity per wear.

Kapital’s Approach to Sustainability

Kapital takes a thoughtful approach to ecological practices:

• Vintage fabrics reused in reconstruction keep textiles from landfills.
• Artisanal natural indigo dyes avoid toxic chemical processes.
• Ethical manufacturing like fair wages provides jobs and skills training.
• Quality over quantity means less waste from disposable fast fashion.
• Locally-sourced materials in Japan reduce Kapital’s carbon footprint.
• Upcycling and repairs give existing materials new life.
• Reselling and trading keeps Kapital circulating among vintage enthusiasts.

While not an overtly eco-focused brand, Kapital’s small production and vintage approach lends itself to sustainability. Its focus remains on quality design but environmental improvements could be made.

Kapital’s Return Policy

Understand Kapital’s stringent return policy before purchasing:

• Kapital does not accept returns or exchanges on any items. All sales are final.
• Returns only apply for defective or damaged items on a case-by-case basis.
• Sales tax and shipping charges are not refunded under any circumstances.
• Most online stockists also follow a no returns policy on Kapital goods.
• Try goods on in-store if possible to ensure fit, or order multiple sizes to find your ideal match.
• Check garment measurements carefully against your own clothes to avoid dissatisfaction.
• Know that altering or washing Kapital items voids any possibility of return.

How to Style and Wear Kapital Clothing

Kapital outfits have a free-spirited vintage vibe. Keep these style tips in mind:

• Pair oversized striped shirts and baggy vintage jeans for 1990s grunge appeal.
• Layer wavy mohair cardigans over band tees and cutoff shorts.
• Cuff wide-leg indigo pants over sneakers or work boots.
• Shrug a Cisco western jacket atop simple slips and dresses.
• Contrast Kapital’s rugged texture with sleek minimal accessories.
• Roll thick ribbed socks over loose vintage jeans.
• Cinch a patterned blanket coat with a wide belt.
• Lean into avant-garde styling by mismatching kaleidoscopic prints.

New and Upcoming Kapital Collections

Kapital keeps designs fresh each season – here’s what’s new:

For Fall/Winter 2022:

• Ironic Gardening featuring tongue-in-cheek collegiate prep and gardening graphics.
• Reconstructed vintage Louisiana feedsacks made into quilted jackets and shirts.
• Super heavyweight 23 oz. selvedge denim jeans lined in flannel.
• Oversized mohair cardigans with Native American motifs.

Just released for Spring/Summer 2023:

• Kountry Ivy League: Quirky Ivy League-inspired menswear with mismatched varsity stripes and collegiate patches.
• Ramada Rayon: Vibrant reconstructed short sleeve button-downs in vintage rayon Hawaiian prints.
• Baja Pullover: Colorful two-tone hooded pullovers inspired by Mexican blankets.

Kapital Color Palettes

Kapital embraces a dynamic range spanning neutral earth tones, muted pastels, and bold brights. Expect to see:

• Indigos: From dark rinses to faded vintage washes
• Earth tones: Khaki, olive, brown, tan, cream
• Plaids & stripes: Red and black buffalo plaid, collegiate stripes
• Dusty pastels: Pink, mint, lilac, sky blue
• Saturated brights: Sunshine yellow, cherry red, violet
• Tropical hues: Palm prints, hibiscus pinks and greens
• Grayscale: Black, white and monochromatic mixes
• Native motifs: Turquoise, peach, terra cotta and sand

In-Store Availability

Kapital has limited distribution, but can occasionally be found at:

• Specialist boutiques: Particularly vintage-inspired and denim stores.
• High-end department stores: Like Barneys New York, Isetan Mitsukoshi, and United Arrows. Sometimes only at select locations.
• Vintage and secondhand stores: Especially in fashion-forward cities, you may find rare Kapital pieces mixed into vintage collections.
• Art galleries and concept shops: Kapital occasionally holds special pop-up releases and installations.

Online remains the best opportunity to access Kapital’s full range. Stores outside Japan and a handful of international stockists will have limited product.

Kapital Denim Sizing and Fit

Kapital’s denim fits differently from typical jeans:

• Most raw, unsanforized styles will stretch at least one inch in the waist with wear. Size down accordingly.
• Non-selvedge denim may include some stretch and elasticity. Check product details.
• Kapital’s vintage-inspired jeans sit lower on the hips than modern cuts.
• Silhouettes lean toward loose, baggy 1990s fits rather than skinny cuts.
• Lengths can run short due to use of vintage denim. Check inseam measurements.
• One-wash denim will have minimal stretching, so opt for true-to-size.
• Try before you buy if possible, as vintage denim fits irregularly.

To nail the fit, study garment measures and size charts closely before purchasing.

Background on the Brand

Here are some key facts on Kapital’s origins and ethos:

• Founded in 1984 by designer Toshikiyo Hirata in Okayama, Japan – the heart of Japanese denim production.
• Inspired by rugged American vintage workwear and sportswear of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Prioritizes artisanal, handmade construction using vintage fabrics and one-of-a-kind natural dyes.
• Kapital is Japanese for “capital” – representing accumulation of vintage production knowledge and skills.
• Embraces imperfections and irregularities as reflections of the soul and history in clothing.
• Kapital introduced reconstructed patchwork denim to the Japanese market in the 1990s.
• Collaborates with brands like The North Face, Nonnative, A Bathing Ape, Converse and many more.
• Operates a sister-line called SOULIVE focusing on indigo-dyed fabrics.

Limited Editions and Rarity

Here’s the deal on coveted rare Kapital pieces:

• Releases small production runs of limited reconstructs using vintage textiles that quickly sell out.
• Prize-worthy examples include handwoven hanten jackets, boro quilts, and sashiko-embroidered kimonos.
• Look out for one-off prototypes personally designed by Kapital founder Hirata, or couture reconstructs from the archives.
• Collaborations with brands like The North Face, Nonnative, Needles and Visvim can demand huge resale markups.
• Limited pop-up releases, vintage military capsules, and hand-dyed Century Denim drops also generate buzz.
• Sign up for Kapital’s newsletter and follow their social media to stay on top of exclusive capsule announcements.
• Be prepared to move swiftly online or in-store when special items drop – the most exciting pieces go fast!

Longevity and Durability

Thanks to meticulous construction, Kapital clothes last:

• Heavyweight selvedge denim is built for years of wear. Many thrifted vintage pairs still hold up decades later.
• Vintage fabrics like deadstock 1950s rayon or soft 1940s chambray shirts feel gently broken-in, not worn-out.
• Artisanal details like hand-stitched repairs make pieces unique – and practical to refresh down the line.
• Natural plant and indigo dyes develop a faded patina that ages beautifully over time.
• Quality mohair knits and lambswool jackets won’t pill or fall apart after one season.
• With care, even delicate reconstructed silks and vintage shirts can remain intact for ages.

When purchased at full price, Kapital’s longevity helps justify the investment long-term.

International Shipping Options

Kapital makes it relatively convenient to buy from overseas:

• Free worldwide shipping is offered through Kapital’s online store in Japan. Expect 7-10 day delivery times.
• Shopping service proxies like ZenMarket can buy and consolidate Japan-only items for international shipping.
• Many specialist online stockists like Corlection and Cultizm are based outside Japan and feature international delivery.
• Foreign physical stores like Self Edge LA and NYC will handle local distribution and returns.
• Basic shipping fees are reasonable, but expect to pay customs duties and taxes when importing to your home country.
• Kapital’s vintage approach means each piece is one-of-a-kind. If something sells out, it can’t easily be restocked from Japan.

Key Takeaways: Is Kapital Worth Buying?

In summary, Kapital is a premium Japanese label renowned for:

• Avant-garde vintage Americana-inspired aesthetics.
• Artisanal fabric reconstructs and handmade detailing.
• Inventive use of vintage, antique, and deadstock textiles.
• High-end Japanese selvedge denim and knitwear.
• Ethical production standards and sustainability efforts.
• Outstanding quality and craftsmanship for long-lasting value.

For shoppers seeking one-of-a-kind reconstructed looks, Kapital is worth the price. But be prepared to move quickly on rare pieces and limited editions before they disappear!