A simple, well-constructed cardigan with a modern touch

Even with dozens of offers from big names, LOOPWHEELER only works with those who share the same values. Online Store RUMORS has developed a strong bond with Suzuki, and together they welcome the second collaboration, a special item crafted from the exclusive fabric of the previous special edition. Here, they tell us more about this new item.





SUZUKIThe special edition cardigan is based on the standard LOOPWHEELER cardigan, which is usually produced in two types of fabrics: LW Light (LW180) and LW Extra Light. It is inspired by vintage pieces from the 1940s-50s, with slight adjustments to the silhouette or details like the patch pocket, to produce this authentic style. Of course, it's a perfect piece for American casual style, but I personally like to wear it with a cotton oxford button-down shirt and denim for an American traditional style.





—Instead of patch pockets, the special edition cardigan has a single seamless pocket only on the left. What is the reason for this new feature?

SUZUKIActually, the first sample made in May had two pockets on both sides, but it just looked a bit loose. We wanted it to be sharp and simple. Instead of patch pockets, we chose flat pockets to emphasize simplicity.



MATSUMOTOWhen matching with wool pants, a shorter ribbed hem is better. The usual ribbed length might be easy to coordinate for fashionistas, but sometimes things just don’t go well. We shortened the hem for the first sample, but we felt it wasn't short enough. The hem, in particular, needed a bold change. The length between the pocket and the hem was another concern. Compared to the first sample, the pocket has been lowered, and the right pocket was removed. The front design looks lighter and smarter, creating a more sophisticated style.

More collaborations to come

—It seems everything went very smoothly.

SUZUKIThis is our second collaboration, so there's an organic understanding between us. Matsumoto's requests are all very clear, and I respect them. We just get along very well. We used the same material this time, which made everything easier.

MATSUMOTOThanks to the amazing knitting and sewing techniques, the LOOPWHEELER fabric has such high quality. We infused the elements of RUMORS into the fabric and created it with our feelings. Besides, Suzuki handled everything except the tailoring. He is a true expert in production with years of experience. As he has worked with many designers, he has the skills to deal with different situations. For example, he changed the seamer before I even told him to. He totally knows what I want and simply solves the problems that arise.






—What is the best way to wear this cardigan?

MATSUMOTOAs we discussed before, this cardigan is designed to match with dress pants. It pairs well with dress pants from every Italian brand, such as ICOTEX and G.T.A. Surely, it goes well with denim, like any typical cardigan. It’s a fleece cardigan suitable for a wide range of styles, from smart casual to American casual.

SUZUKIAlthough few brands have produced fleece cardigans, I'm sure we'll see more soon. It's ahead of the trend. Matsumoto has modernized it, creating a wardrobe essential for stylish guys.

MATSUMOTORecently, overseas access has increased significantly for both OPENERS and RUMORS. LOOPWHEELER is so popular overseas, selling in places like Colette in France. We receive so many inquiries from overseas customers for the special edition hoodie. I believe this item will be just as popular in the European market. I hope we can spread the excellence of the brand, as well as Japanese craftsmanship, all over the world.

—Any plans for the next collaboration?





LOOPWHEELER
http://www.loopwheeler.co.jp/


Satoshi Suzuki
Born in Shizuoka in 1959, Satoshi Suzuki entered the fashion industry after graduating from Hosei University. He taught himself fashion design and established the loop wheel made sweatshirt brand LOOPWHEELER in 1999, based on his experiences in apparel production and close connections with fashion insiders. He began working with factories possessing excellent techniques, and together they produce high-quality “Made in Japan” items, aiming to pass along the philosophy to the next generation. Besides vintage sweatshirts, he has been studying old loop wheel machines and various knitting methods. He is a true sweatshirt specialist.

Hiroyuki Matsumoto
Born in 1969, Matsumoto worked as an editor and in sales for Car magazine while he was a student. Later, he joined the advertisement sales department of World Photo Press, gaining experience through various publications including “World Watch” and “mono magazine.” After leaving World Photo Press in 2005, he became a producer at SHIBUYA-FM and a consultant for many fashion brands. In 2006, he joined Nanayou Limited, where he established the online magazine OPENERS and the e-commerce site RUMORS. He has extensive connections not only in the fashion industry but also in other sectors. He is currently a board member and MD manager of Nanayou Limited.