IN FOCUSVol.10
CREW NECK POCKET T-SHIRT 2P + 1P SERVICE PACK - MIX
From the stories behind the creation of items by THE CRIMIE to behind-the-scenes spin-off stories,
A column covering a wide range of topics, with the aim of sharing things that are both interesting and useful.
The theme of this landmark 10th installment of the series is T-SHIRT.
“Wait, didn’t you just feature this recently?” If you’re thinking that, you must be a loyal reader. We’re introducing how the product description has been updated with the designer’s own words, and since some of you may be reading this series for the first time, we’re deliberately featuring the same item again.
For Vol. 10, we’re introducing the CREW NECK POCKET T-SHIRT 2P + 1P SERVICE PACK - MIX. It’s a three-pack in a version with mixed colors. I actually wear this item myself, so there’s a very personal reason behind this feature, too. (laughs) The product description has also been updated with an interesting designer’s perspective on the development process, so as a longtime wearer, I’ll be sharing a detailed report. I hope you’ll give it a read.
I’m from a generation that experienced everything from shibu-kaji, streetwear, vintage American casual, and high fashion (my age is showing...). In a word, I’m eclectic. But perhaps because vintage styles, which influenced me when I was young, are still at my core, I’ve always had a bit of a cotton-above-all mindset. My idea of a T-shirt was something with a dry, rough feel that wore down with repeated washing, faded and frayed, and eventually had to be replaced.
With vintage rock tees and Harley tees, the fabric gets thinner with every wash, and some even become so sheer that they look like they might dissolve away before you know it... (wry laugh). I still had that perception, so discovering this item was nothing short of a revelation.
The CREW NECK POCKET T-SHIRT 2P + 1P SERVICE PACK - MIX is made from 95% cotton and 5% polyurethane, so naturally its comfort and fit are on a whole different level from 100% cotton. It also incorporates smooth knit fabric rather than jersey, making it far stretchier, so it doesn’t interfere with outerwear when worn as a base layer. And the soft, supple feel is fantastic. It really feels like it clings to your skin.
It may not be the best comparison, but to me, the difference feels about as big as the difference between regular tissues and Nose○eb. (laughs) I don’t usually wear poly-blend denim, but wearing this T-shirt finally made me understand why pants with good stretch recovery are so popular. (wry laugh)
Next, the silhouette. Some of you might be thinking, “Come on, it’s just an ordinary T-shirt, right?” So let me say upfront: the silhouette is exceptionally beautiful. The standout detail is the vertical line under the arms. It fits the body beautifully, even when you throw it on without a second thought. The pattern is so superb that you’d never expect it from a brand with streetwear roots, rather than a global high-fashion label. It’s one of those things you’ll understand once you wear it.
Plus, the fabric is so substantial you’d never guess it was a T-shirt. It doesn’t feel like underwear when worn on its own; if anything, it looks luxurious. Since it’s a simple, solid-color piece that leaves no room to hide flaws, the fabric, pattern, and stitching have all been brought together to an exceptional standard. The result is quality that exceeds its price, guaranteed to elevate the look of both kids and adults with just this one piece.
That should be more than enough to tell you. Now, seeing is believing: just give it a try, even if you think you might be fooled, and you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
Mr.T
A fashion specialist and enthusiast who works across the industry, from consulting for renowned brands in Japan and abroad to PR and writing. What makes him tick...?
