KUDEN Project: Redefining Kimono as a Social Design Platform

Reviving Japanese Tradition and Empowering Sewing Factories

KUDEN's Next Kimono platform is not just a product; it is a social design solution that tackles two pressing issues: the decline of Japanese traditional kimono culture and the loss of high sewing techniques. The platform consists of three items that can be worn both as a complete kimono set and individually with everyday outfits. By seamlessly integrating kimono into people's daily lives, Next Kimono aims to create a demand for traditional kimono and provide fair-wage jobs for sewing factories.

The Next Kimono platform eliminates the need for special techniques to wear kimono, making it accessible to a wider audience. It retains the essence of kimono, such as the unique sleeve shape known as Miyatsuguchi, while incorporating modern design elements. Moreover, Next Kimono is designed to be timeless, breaking away from fleeting fashion trends. This approach not only improves the working environment and production efficiency but also allows sewing factories to accumulate skills and expertise.

The journey of the KUDEN project began with the launch of a Kickstarter campaign in November 2018, followed by the production of the first jacket in January 2019. However, the project faced a setback when their partner sewing factory went bankrupt in May 2019. This experience reinforced the brand's commitment to ethical practices and highlighted the importance of social design. KUDEN now discloses the cost breakdown to customers, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Extensive research underpins the Next Kimono platform. Sato focused on the longevity and adaptability of kimono as a fashion platform, drawing inspiration from its 400-year history. By reimagining kimono as a global daily wear, Sato aims to expand the kimono market worldwide and revive interest in traditional kimono and Japanese dressmaking techniques known as Wasai. The decline in kimono culture has led to a decrease in artisans practicing Wasai, and KUDEN aims to reverse this trend by connecting the demand for kimono with the employment of disabled individuals.

Challenges arose during the design process, particularly in redesigning kimono using Western dressmaking techniques while preserving its unique characteristics. Finding suitable materials and sewing factories that could realize the vision proved to be a hurdle. However, KUDEN remained committed to its values and chose to disclose the cost breakdown to customers, ensuring transparency and building trust.

The KUDEN project has garnered recognition for its innovative approach. In 2020, it received the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Social Design category. This award recognizes designs that are well-crafted, practical, and innovative, meeting professional and industrial standards while contributing to a better world.

The Next Kimono platform is not just a fashion statement; it is a social design movement that aims to preserve Japanese tradition, empower sewing factories, and create meaningful job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Through its unique approach, KUDEN is redefining the way we perceive and wear kimono, breathing new life into a centuries-old tradition.