Since its debut in 2015, cantate continues to deliver the finest MADE IN JAPAN products to the world. This article delves into the appeal of cantate and its designer, Shin Matsushima.

Shin Matsushima, designer of cantate

Manufacturing where you can see the face of the maker.

"When I was living in Hokkaido, where I'm from, there weren't many clothing stores in town, and the only way I could enjoy fashion was by looking at vintage clothes," says Matsushima. However, he became fascinated by vintage clothing and developed a great interest in Levi's® 501XX, French vintage, and military wear, and decided to enter the world of fashion with the idea of "how to recreate these in modern clothing."

Afterward, she studied patternmaking at Bunka Fashion College, and upon graduation, gained extensive experience working with fabrics and denim at a company in Okayama. After working for a domestic brand, she launched cantate at the young age of 25.

Simple yet standard, these are top-of-the-line garments made with high-quality materials, offering comfort and easy-to-wear patterns. To create them, he personally traveled to various regions, passionately persuading suppliers to help him develop his business. He avoids using trading companies or OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), personally overseeing and verifying every step from start to finish. "For example, even with something as simple as a button, I deal directly with the button maker, ensuring that the faces of the people who made each part are visible, giving each product a sense of authenticity. For that to happen, being MADE IN JAPAN is essential."

However, his focus isn't solely on the technical aspects. "Whether it's weaving or sewing, as long as the equipment is solid, I think the quality can be maintained no matter which country it's produced in. However, when Japanese people make it, the eye for quality becomes a Japanese eye. Because we can share the same standards—what Japanese people find beautiful, what they are strict about—there are fewer mistakes, the quality improves, and that's why we can entrust it to them. Including their aesthetic sense, Japanese people really do have a good eye." Of course, the orders are placed with confidence in their high level of skill, but it is the clear communication that leads to high-quality craftsmanship.

NEXT: A shirt that showcases expert craftsmanship in every detail and offers exceptional comfort.