Legendary Vintage Clothing Store "DEPT," a Driving Force of 1980s Culture, Revives in Nakameguro | DEPT

DEPT

A Legendary Vintage Store That Defined 1980s Culture Reopens in Nakameguro, Tokyo

Opened in San Francisco in 1980 and sadly closed in 2011, “DEPT” left many fans longing for its return. Now, eri, daughter of founder Seiji Nagai and designer of “mother,” is reviving the brand. The new store opens on April 25th at noon on the first floor of “mother River Side BOUTIQUE” in Tokyo’s Nakameguro district.

Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)

Reopening in Nakameguro After Nearly Four Years

DEPT’s story began in 1980 when founder Seiji Nagai opened its predecessor, “GOVERNMENT,” in San Francisco. The following year, he relocated to New York’s East Village, opening a shop of the same name specializing in deadstock items. That same year, the first Japanese store, “DEPT Tokyo,” opened in Harajuku.

Subsequently, shops were opened across Japan. However, all stores closed in 2011 upon the founder’s retirement. Now, eri, who runs “mother River Side BOUTIQUE,” is bringing “DEPT TOKYO” back to life on the first floor of the Nakameguro boutique. The second floor will continue to house the fashion brand “mother” and the accessory brand “VTOPIA” under the River Side BOUTIQUE name.

Introducing Original DEPT Socks

DEPT TOKYO will offer a curated selection of men’s and women’s vintage items—including clothing, shoes, accessories like belts, and reworked pieces—alongside unisex original items.

To commemorate the opening, DEPT will sell original socks called “DEPT LINE SOX.” Additionally, the first 100 customers who spend over ¥10,000 will receive a complimentary bandana featuring an original print.

DEPT’s unique worldview, a blend of diverse cultures, transcends the boundaries of a vintage store. Its attitude continues to resonate with many artists today. A second store is slated to open this summer.

DEPT TOKYO
1-13-12 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-0042 mother River Side BOUTIQUE 1F
instagram | @DEPT_TOKYO #DEPT_TOKYO