Top 25 Japanese Menswear Brands | Best Clothing Brands To Know

We all know that Japanese fashion is well-known for high-quality products and many special designs. Japanese menswear fashion is especially an attractive subject that impresses everyone. Janbox has been following a number of Japanese men clothing brands making waves in the worldwide industry, so we have compiled a list of those brands that are worth checking out.

If you are interested in the style, the list of top 25 best Japanese menswear brands is for you. Therefore, we hope that you won’t ignore thist collection we’ve made if you want to make a distinctive style for yourself.

1. Top 25 Japanese menswear brands you should know

1.1. Visvim

Visvim, the trendy Japanese menswear brand, was founded in 2000 by Hiroki Nakamura. He used to work as a designer at Burton Snowboards. But after that, he decided to leave and start his own business. Nowadays, the label has headquarters in Tokyo and some other stores in Japan as well as the United States.

The brand is famous for its carefully sourced raw materials and impeccable artisanship. Each collection is inspired by American fashion paired with elements of high-tech, traditional craftsmanship, and high-quality materials.

1.2. Mastermind Japan

In 1997, Masaaki Honma founded Mastermind Japan which is often abbreviated as MMJ. The company stands for timeless cool with a distinctively Japanese style. Black and the Skull & Crossbones logo are the two ingredients that make the mastermind stand out.

Although Mastermind no longer delivers its seasonal pieces, it continues to collaborate with other brands such as Adidas Originals. Every product is made in Japan, and it comes with a tag that lists the name of those who helped manufacture it.

1.3. Undercover

The Undercover clothing line was founded in 1993 by Jun Takahashi. Its debut collection made Japanese men’s fashion popular worldwide. Undercover’s debut at Paris Fashion Week in 2002 cemented the brand’s status as one of the most recognizable labels in Japan.

The Japanese menswear label combines streetwear and high fashion in its collections, ushering in new trends and creative pieces. For nearly 30 years, the designer’s distinctive style has influenced stylists across the globe where contemporary fashion stands today. Some of the earliest Undercover designs are now highly desirable.

1.4. Neighbourhood

In 1994, designer Shinsuke Takizawa started the Neighbourhood fashion label in Tokyo. He has a deep interest in motorcycles. Therefore, the concept for craft basic Japanese men’s clothing is inspired by unique interpretations of elements from motorcycles, the military, and outdoor activities.

As a result, the collection includes denim, leather jackets, motorcycle goods, eyewear, interior items, and more. Furthermore, recently, he created a series named Neighborhood One Third which is only for kids with beautiful items at 1/3 the normal size.

1.5. Uniqlo

When someone mentions Japanese men’s fashion, he can’t miss the name of Uniqlo. The brand was founded in the 1980s as the “Unique Clothing Warehouse”. One of the best advantages which makes the label outstanding in the market is its direction. A perfect balance is maintained between straightforward, classic designs and creative, wildcard designs. Because it’s a brand from Japan, the material used in their Japanese clothing brands for men is obviously comfortable and durable.

When you take a quick look at the Japanese fashion market, almost all businesses focus on quality and high prices. Uniqlo becomes special because of its affordable rate compared with its durable quality.

>>> Read more: 15+ Best Japanese Clothing Brands Popular You Should Know

1.6. White Mountaineering

The White Mountaineering brand was founded in 2006 by Yosuke Aizawa. Before this year, he worked in Junya Watanabe, where he was inspired by details like embroidered fabrics, jacquards, elaborate patterns, and patterned fabric blends. Aizawa admitted in interviews in the past that his designs may not be suitable for mountaineering.

However, his fascination with cold-weather aesthetics has contributed to some of the most interesting looks in recent Japanese fashion. Recently, the business has even had chances to collaborate with many famous labels all around the world like Barbour, Saucony sneakers, and Adidas Originals.

1.7. Cav Empt

Cav Empt was founded in 2012 by SK8THING (Billionaire Boys Club, BAPE) and Toby Feltwell (Mo’Wax Records). The Japanese menswear brand name of the iconic clothing store is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase ‘buyer beware. Among many menswear in the world, Cav Empt is welcomed by many consumers because of its colorful designs. Their graphics and colorways are eye-catching and represent a culture clash, much like an old Mo’Wax 12 inch.

Cav Empt’s clothing collection draws its inspiration from Italian horror films from the 20th century. Throughout the years, the company has continued to sell its products through select retail outlets.

1.8. Beams

Beams was established in 1976 by Etsuzo Shitara and Osamu Shigematsu. Shigematsu’s love of vintage fashion, especially of the classic Americana variety, led him to many trips to the United States to purchase items. However, because the physical characteristics of Japanese men differ from those of American men, Japanese shoppers require tailored products. Therefore, creating unique pieces is the essence of beams menswear, where international trends are interpreted through a Japanese perspective.

As of today, the brand has been enhanced with the Ivy League edge – the brand is favored as much by men who appreciate madras shirts and button-down Oxford shirts.

Want to order clothing and other goods from Beams Japan? – Check my guide for more awesome resources for everything that is not printed on paper.

1.9. orSlow

orSlow was founded by clothing hoarder and designer Ichiro Nakatsu. He started collecting vintage military items and working clothes, and in 2005. Then, he established this Japanese men’s fashion brand name to produce clothes with a long and more complex production process. One of his main purposes is bringing simple items with the best quality which customers can use for a long time.

The brand is inspired by Americana from the 1960s, Japanese military uniforms, and European workwear. Therefore, orSlow’s hardy clothing is woven on traditional shuttle looms before being washed and aged for a look that is truly vintage.

1.10. Comme des Garçons

The Japanese menswear brand, Comme des Garçons was founded in 1969 by Rei Kawakubo and gained popularity in Japan during the 1970s before launching in Paris in 1981. It can be said that the list can’t be completed if it doesn’t have the name of this label. The mission of Comme des Garçons is to bring you the latest fashion trends because it represents the epitome of Japanese tailor-made and high-end clothing. While it remains a luxury collection, a few years ago it began to roll out affordable collections to broaden its customer base.

1.11. Y-3

It is the result of a collaboration between Adidas and Japanese fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto. He is known as a person who combines traditional Japanese design with contemporary perspectives in his designs. When Y-3 was launched in 2002, it was breaking the boundaries between fashion and sport. The items from this brand are always coveted by collectors worldwide. Many people estimate that its style is both fashionable and practical, with a distinguishing Japanese character and modern design.

>>> See more: Japanese clothing size conversion table|Buy clothes from Japan

1.12. Remi Relief

In 2007, Yutaka Goto founded Remi Relief. He draws inspiration from the American culture of the 1960s and 1970s, especially Californian skateboarding and surfing. Therefore, the brand is a perfect example of how another country can make something that looks like something from the U.S. but is 100% its own. The founder, Yutaka Goto, set up the label’s own factory in Kojima, Okayama Prefecture, where most Japanese artisanal products are made. Additionally, Goto uses soft cotton that not only enhances the aged style he seeks but also provides unbelievably comfortable results.

1.13. Blue Blue Japan

Founded in 1996 as an internal Japanese men’s clothing brand for the Tokyo clothing store Okura, Blue Blue Japan quickly expanded beyond Okura. Today, Blue Blue Japan is known around the world as its own brand, inspired by traditional workwear styles and traditional indigo dyeing techniques. In every item of this company, we can see clearly the local vibes of ancient times. At that time, kimonos with the deep blue hue of the label’s clothing were treasured.

Blue Blue Japan draws inspiration from its home country’s history to produce seasonally-themed collections of simple. These local outfits are decorated with traditional Japanese patterns and colors.

1.14. KAPITAL

Kapital was originally called Capital after its hometown of Kojima, where it was founded in 1985 by Toshikiyo Hirata. Capital began as a sewing and dyeing factory and eventually developed into one of the world’s most highly respected denim specialists. The best Japanese menswear brand with a special feature of the smiley-face label makes a name for itself. With more than 30 years of experience, Kapital has become one of the most perfect Americana styles. Especially, its design is for those who love creative crafts and dyeing techniques.

1.15. UNITED ARROWS

United Arrows was founded by Beams guru Osamu Shigematsu in 1989. Thanks to designers Poggy Kogi and Yasuto Kamoshita, United Arrows is a well-known name on the streets of Tokyo. Even, last year, the Japanese men’s fashion brand opened its 256th store in Roppongi Hills.

Moreover, the label cooperates with The North Face Purple Label for the water-repellent, relaxed-cut Field Denali Jacket, as well as Dr. Martens. In addition, they collaborate with Russell Athletic for their oversized polo shirts estimated to be the basic item for every menswear collector.

1.16. Edwin

Japan is celebrated for its exceptional denim, and Edwin is one of the major brands contributing to this acclaim. 

Edwin is one of the key brands that has helped Japan earn its reputation for producing exceptional denim. Established in 1947, the company originally focused on importing pre-worn jeans from the United States. Soon after, Edwin produced its first Japan-made jeans, marking the birth of an iconic brand.

Over time, this Tokyo brand has innovated with its dyeing methods, grown to offer a complete collection for Japanese outfits male, and become well-known for its unique three-color “rainbow selvedge” jeans.

1.17. Danton

Danton began as a workwear outfitter in Paris in the mid-20th century, supplying uniforms to the Paris Metro. It may seem puzzling how this ties it to Japanese fashion men, but the brand has recently transitioned to Tokyo, where it is currently evolving.

Since the evolution, Danton has quickly become one of the best Japanese men’s clothing brands in the country, now being stocked by fashion-forward retailers across the globe. Their offerings blend classic workwear silhouettes with modern materials, all with a signature touch of Japanese style.

>>> Read more: How To Buy From Japan – Janbox Proxy Shopping Service

1.18. The Real McCoy’s

The Real McCoy’s began with an interesting journey in 1978 when its founder, Hitoshi Tsujitmoto, traveled to the United States with nothing but an empty suitcase. He filled it with the finest vintage pieces he could find and aimed to recreate those iconic American looks, giving birth to The Real McCoy’s.

The Real McCoy’s is a Japan men’s fashion brand with a strong focus on mid-century Americana and authenticity. It revives classic styles from the time, like military jackets and college sweatshirts, while also employing original production methods, resulting in vintage pieces crafted to an even superior standard than those from the past.

1.19. Evisu

Evisu may seem commonplace today with its famous seagull logo being such a familiar sight, but its approach pays tribute to a unique historical moment. During World War II, Levi’s was forced to forego stitching their signature pocket design due to rationing and instead painted their branding, a move that Evisu later referenced with its own painted logo style.

Starting in 1991, Evisu was only capable of producing up to 14 pairs of jeans at a time, all meticulously crafted from top-notch raw selvedge denim. Today, this Japanese clothing for guys brand’s lineup includes everything from printed tops to accessories and outerwear, blending Japanese and American influences, but it all traces back to their denim origins.

1.20. Mountain Research

This Japanese clothing for men brand was first launched in 1993 under the name General Research, but Setsumasa rebranded it as Mountain Research in 2006 to align with its main inspiration. Each season, Mountain Research unveils new collections of highly functional clothing, informed by founder Kobayashi Setsumasa’s regular trips to the wilderness with his friends and incorporating elements of modern fashion.

What sets Mountain Research apart from the numerous Japanese technical brands is its subtle rebellious flair. The brand excels in creating outdoor gear, yet each item is just as suitable for modern daily wear, a balance that others often struggle to achieve.

1.21. Human Made

Created by Nigo, a highly productive Japanese designer who also established A Bathing Ape and co-founded Billionaire Boys Club, and now serves as Kenzo’s artistic director, Human Made has a unique identity. While his style often reflects streetwear influences, skate culture, and hip-hop, Human Made takes its cues from mid-century American design but stays just as lively and trend-oriented.

Human Made has achieved its status as a highly desirable Japanese clothes for men brand, underscoring the endless appreciation for NIGO’s creative flair. With its homemade and whimsical style, the brand has captivated the Japanese market and gained prominence in America over its 10-year existence, largely due to its continuous partnerships with Adidas.

1.22. Nanamica

Over the past 15 years, Nanamica has been one of the top Japanese menswear brands, known for blending style, functionality, and design. Nanamica introduces a fresh wave of iconic styles, each infused with a distinctive technical edge you will not find elsewhere. Launched by Eiichiro Homma in 2003, the brand specializes in creating products that feature both weather-resistant technical components and a rustic, natural look.

Before founding Nanamica, Eiichiro Homma built his design credentials working on outerwear for outdoor specialists like The North Face and Helly Hansen. His brand later formed a long-lasting partnership with The North Face, resulting in The North Face Purple Label. It is hardly surprising, then, that Nanamica is famed for its range of jackets and winter-ready coats, including parkas, padded gilets, and much more.

1.23. Mizuno

Established in 1906 by Rihachi Mizuno, who developed a passion for baseball after visiting the U.S., Mizuno began by primarily offering baseball equipment. Over time, it has grown into a prominent name in technical sportswear, providing cutting-edge gear for sports such as skiing, handball, tennis, and more.

With groundbreaking developments like Enerzy Foam and Wave technology, Mizuno continues to lead in innovation while also branching out into lifestyle products. The brand has collaborated with prominent artists and brands such as Hajime Sorayama and Footpatrol. Since launching its Sportstyle line in 2018, which emphasizes integrating advanced technology into everyday, fashion-forward footwear, Mizuno has attracted a fresh following among sneaker aficionados.

1.24. Snow Peak

Established in 1958 by Yukio Yamai, Snow Peak is among the most storied names on the list of the best Japanese apparel brands for men. A mountaineer himself, Yamai set out to create clothing and camping gear that blend functionality with style. Snow Peak’s commitment to quality materials over flashy logos has earned it a cult-like following and deep respect. From urban environments to remote mountain ranges, Snow Peak apparel stands out for its comfort, durability, and style, all while drawing from the rich archives of Japanese design.

1.25. Junya Watanabe

Junya Watanabe, regarded as one of the leading figures in contemporary menswear design, began his journey under Rei Kawakubo at Comme des Garçons and went on to create his own label within the CdG family in the early 1990s.

In recent times, this Japanese brand has made a name for itself with its use of multiple fabrics in patchwork designs, as showcased in its ongoing projects with Levi’s. This approach sees workwear designs updated with contemporary cuts and futuristic details, jackets artfully made to be worn both ways, and classic items like suits and overcoats given a fresh twist with unexpected textures and accents.

2. Shop Japanese menswear clothing with Janbox

Want to enjoy the excitement of shopping at the best men’s Japanese clothing brands, no matter where you are in the world? Janbox proxy service offers you direct access to a vast selection of Japanese menswear brands, keeping the newest fashion trends just a click away. With our team managing everything from purchase to delivery, shopping for clothes for Japanese menswear brands has never been more straightforward. 

2.1. Search for your preferred items

To purchase items through Janbox, the first thing you need to do is create an account. This step is vital to facilitate seamless transactions. After registering, you are free to search for and buy the best pieces from your favorite Japanese menswear brands.

You can search for your desired brand by typing its name into the Janbox search bar. Alternatively, explore a Japanese menswear brand’s website, find the items you’re interested in, copy the product link, and paste it into the search bar. If you experience any difficulties, our help center and support team are here to assist you.

2.2. Place your order

If you have reviewed the item information and are ready to purchase, simply hit “ADD TO CART” to save for later and continue shopping or “BUY NOW” to enter the payment stage. The total charge will cover the item price and a service fee. Available payment options include Visa, Alipay, MasterCard, and PayPal.

Alternatively, you can use the Janbox wallet to make payments. You can deposit funds into the wallet beforehand. Each yen converts to a point, and Janbox will automatically withdraw the required points, leaving any unused ones for your next order. After your payment is complete, the Janbox purchasing team will get to work on your order right away.

2.3. Package consolidation

You will be notified by email when your items arrive at the Janbox warehouse. You can keep your items stored for up to 45 days at no cost to consolidate multiple orders into one shipment. Alternatively, you may request our team to ship your items right away. Furthermore, you must pick an international shipping carrier and decide on any additional services, such as item inspection or protective packaging.

2.4. Delivery

There is a second payment which covers the domestic and international shipping expenses, along with any additional services you opted for. After the second payment is confirmed, your package will be securely sent to the address you indicated.

3. Japanese Men’s Clothing FAQ

Are you looking to expand your knowledge of Japanese menswear? Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

>>> Read more: How to Buy from Amazon Japan? A Guide for Non-Japanese Shoppers

Conclusion

Here is the list of the top 25 best Japanese menswear brands which you should know if you have the intention to buy any item for yourself or your beloved ones. We hope that with this list from Janbox, you will get more interesting information about this type of fashion in the nation. You can see that each brand has its own story and special features which make its own name. But the same point is their quality and creative designs. Every creation looks like a masterpiece of each designer and stylist. Therefore, all you need is simply to contemplate their design and pick one suitable for your style. Hope that you will choose your favorite item. And it’s time for a happy shopping!

We hope you found this article inspring! If you did, we’d love if you could share it with your fellow Japan lovers. You’re also welcome to join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more tips and inspiration!

Website: https://janbox.com

Email: [email protected]