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TODAY'S BELOVEED ITEMS

Umbrella

A device that is spread out and held above the head to protect the body from rain, snow, and sunlight. It is a familiar tool, and in recent years, it has not only served as a fashion accessory for men on rainy days, but also as a parasol.

▶Related Q&A | Useful knowledge and care methods for umbrellas that enhance your style on rainy days

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Until the first half of the 20th century, when synthetic fibers like those we have today appeared, cotton and silk were commonly used for umbrella fabrics. Silk, in particular, has many risks such as staining, fading, and insect damage, but its exceptional color vibrancy and the pleasant sound of "silk rustling" when opening and closing the umbrella have made it the finest umbrella fabric even today.
Apparently, the secret to preventing damage to the fabric and making it last longer is to use it moderately, rather than pampering it just because it's expensive.

*The image is for illustrative purposes only.

Many umbrellas in Europe still use nylon fabric. This fiber, which became widespread after World War II as a substitute for silk, is inexpensive, strong, and has excellent colorfastness. The biggest beneficiaries of this fiber were actually military parachutes and umbrellas. Because it absorbs water more easily than polyester, it was gradually replaced by polyester, but its unique sheen has an undeniable appeal.

Ramuda long umbrella (65cm ribs) ¥14,040 Click here for details

■ Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 1st Floor = Belts and Umbrellas

Polyester is currently the dominant material for umbrella fabrics. This is because the fiber itself is hydrophobic, meaning it doesn't easily absorb water, so it dries quickly and is less prone to leaks even without extensive water-repellent treatment. By innovating the weaving method, umbrellas are evolving to meet demand, offering features such as extreme lightness, highly water-repellent properties, and designs that allow for good visibility from the inside to the outside while making it difficult to see from the outside to the inside.

Text by Takahiro Iino

Takahiro Iino: After graduating from university, he worked for a major steel manufacturer before becoming an independent fashion journalist and researcher. He writes about men's clothing in general, including dress shoes and suits, and discusses topics from the perspective of someone with business experience. He also teaches modern and contemporary fashion history at a vocational school and appears on and supervises television programs, making him a well-known figure in men's fashion in general. His books include "Enjoying Dress Shoes: From the First Step to Mastery," "Enjoying Dress Clothing: Choosing an Outfit That Suits Your Body and Mind" (Asahi Shimbun Publications), and "A Comprehensive Guide to Shoe Polishing and Care for Long-Lasting Shoes" (Ikeda Shoten).

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Text: Takahiro Iino

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