改善, Kaizen (“Continuous Improvement”) - The Kaizen Vest
The latest addition to our ongoing Wave Texture capsule embodies the attitude, values and modus operandi of the brand like few others can. Our Kaizen vest exists as an effigy, casting our line back to the past, while pulling us steadfastly towards our future. It exists as a representative of our commitment to contemporary wear that embraces functionality, versatility and continuous improvement—aptly, this garment's namesake.
Kaizen is the fusion of two Japanese words that translate to “good change” and “improvement”, however, it has morphed to symbolise the phrase “continuous improvement”. It finds origin in post-war Japan, arising within circles of workers committed to preventing defects in Toyota vehicles— small, incremental improvements that bolster productivity and eliminate unnecessary waste. Kaizen grew beyond words, becoming a workable philosophy and methodology for optimised functionality, popularised in the West through management consultant Masaaki Imai, remembered as the father of Continuous Improvement.
This etymology for our recent launch felt fitting—Wave Texture is defined by a mission for purposeful pieces that resonate, and nothing else. We also strive for the continuous improvement of essential silhouettes through interchanging textiles and textures. The Kaizen vest looks to elevate beyond its own means, namely, supporting the wearability and versatility of the Pierre raincoat. Its design found root in a rotating relationship between two garments, with the creation of both ensuring that neither needs to lay dormant in an ongoing capsule wardrobe. In cold temperatures, the pair would team up to preserve natural body warmth and protect against seasonal downpours. When the clouds break, separately, they can shine.
Seeking further influence from Japanese heritage, Kaizen draws inspiration from military quilt liners within its main padded textile. Initially envisioned as a purely complimentary garment, as are traditional military liners, the final product evolved through three prototypes into a garment in its own right. Ostensibly, it offers a tactical edge to the otherwise conventionality of the Pierre raincoat.
We opted to reimagine a vest design for its ability to retain body warmth through cold winters. Still allowing a comfortable freedom of movement for the arms, while simultaneously offering storage space for practical, everyday essentials. Kaizen features two large front pockets and an additional, spacious hunting pocket on the back to support water bottles, bike pumps, books and other commonplace backpack items, that alleviate the need for such. Upon testing the prototype for this vest, we were impressed by how often this hunting pocket was reached for—an element that was purely an aesthetic design element transformed through use to seamlessly support functional needs.
Riveted for increased durability, the Kaizen vest encourages total self-sufficiency for days you wish to avoid additional luggage and carry-ons. Our vision for the vest imagined long walks that stretch into early evening, guided by your feet and surrounding scenes rather than a phone map.
Further considered detailing reinforces a military undercurrent for the vest—a cartridge holder has been included to the silhouette’s upper-left side to function as a holder for traditional pocket or purse items; cigarettes, pens, sunglasses, your favourite bite-sized sweets or gum. Side strap adjustments are a further combat-esque accent, resembling that of a bulletproof vest in a soldier's uniform.
Hidden within lies quilted fabric, aesthetically looked over yet unmistakably noticeable through a functional lens. Designed specifically for the Kaizen vest, the outer material is formed from polyester ripstop, responsibly sourced from Louis Vuitton deadstock. Practically, this allows a technical and water-resistant finish to support the wearer through each year’s volatile weather patterns. Internally, the vest is formed of 100% cotton ripstop, providing supportive breathability and comfort. This contrast is never more noticeable than when sliding your hands into the front pockets, allowing you to feel the synergy of each fabric that supports the practical construction of this unique vest.
At its core, the Kaizen vest transcends the confines of a traditional garment. Thoughtfully, it is a fusion of form, function and philosophy. Named for our dedication to ongoing improvement in all aspects of our brand, Kaizen represents both who we choose and strive to be.
