■ ITEM DETAILS ■

· Era: Early to Mid Showa Period (approx. 1930s–1950s)
· Material: Cotton
· Found in: Tohoku, Japan

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What is Momohiki?

Momohiki are traditional Japanese leg coverings, worn from the waist to the ankle. For generations, they supported the bodies of farmers, mountain workers, festival participants, and laborers — in every situation that demanded freedom of movement. Simple, functional, and quietly beautiful.

Today, Japanese vintage workwear is gaining serious attention from collectors and buyers around the world. Rooted in slow fashion values and a philosophy of living deliberately, these garments are no longer seen as mere folk artifacts — they are recognized as authentic expressions of Japanese material culture.

This momohiki is something else entirely.

Indigo-dyed momohiki exist. But momohiki with stripe detailing are exceptionally rare. Two white lines running the full length of the legs — I have almost never encountered this detail before.

Why are the stripes there? That remains unknown.

Were they made as matching uniforms for a rural youth group or a reservist association's exercise sessions? Were they worn by miners or mountain workers, the stripes marking a team or a crew? Or were they made for a festival, a pair of legs dressed for a moment of celebration? All of these are possible. None can be confirmed. What is certain is that someone, at some point, made a deliberate choice to add these lines. The story of who that was now passes to you.

The indigo is deep and remarkably well-preserved — rich in color, compelling to look at. The ties are also indigo-dyed, but in a slightly different tone from the body, creating a subtle two-tone effect that feels entirely unintentional and entirely perfect. The reverse side features careful reinforcement in indigo fabric — evidence of a maker who took their work seriously.

A striped momohiki does not come along often.

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Also in our collection: Japanese Vintage Noragi Jackets — traditional workwear from the same era, for those who appreciate the depth of Japan's folk clothing heritage.

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■ SIZE ■

· Thigh width: approx. 22 cm / 8.7 in
· Hem width: approx. 14.5 cm / 5.7 in
· Total length: approx. 87 cm / 34.3 in

※ Measurements may vary slightly.

Note on sizing: Momohiki do not have a fixed waist or inseam in the conventional sense. Unlike standard trousers, they wrap around the body and are secured with ties, allowing the fit to be adjusted. Use the thigh width and hem width as your primary reference. Momohiki are traditionally worn close to the leg — not oversized or relaxed, but fitted along the line of the body. Please research the traditional wearing method before purchasing if you are unfamiliar.

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■ CONDITION ■

Some soiling and wear consistent with age and use. Please understand that this is a vintage item with history.

We have laundered this item twice. A faint vintage odor may remain. Any damage, odor, or changes that occur after ordering, washing, or wearing are not grounds for return or exchange. Please order only if you fully understand and accept these conditions.

※ Item will be compressed for shipping. Creasing may occur in transit.