An extra layer to protect the clothes underneath.
That simple purpose lies at the heart of the uwappari, a traditional Japanese protective overgarment.

Worn over everyday clothing for household tasks and agricultural work, it belongs to a culture of garments made for daily life.

This indigo-dyed cotton noragi dates to approximately the mid-Showa period. Noragi is a term associated with Japan’s traditional rural clothing, while uwappari describes its role as a protective outer layer.

White kasuri motifs, both large and small, are scattered across the deep indigo ground. Kasuri is a Japanese ikat weaving technique, giving the patterns their softly blurred edges and distinctive woven character.

Inside is a plain black lining.
Ties fasten the front.

A roomy body, shorter sleeves, and miyatsuguchi openings at the sides beneath the sleeves define its construction. This is a garment for layering over clothing and moving through everyday life, rather than one made simply for decoration.

For those drawn to rural living, a restored old home, or weekends spent tending a garden, it offers a connection to that quieter, hands-on way of life.

Japanese noragi has attracted interest among international Japanese vintage enthusiasts. Choosing a surviving garment and wearing it for years, rather than replacing it with each passing trend, is also a way to embrace slow fashion.

Only one is available.
Another piece with the same age, pattern, and condition would be difficult to source. Please consider its individual textile character and measurements when choosing.

Details

Material: Cotton
Era: Approximately mid-Showa period
Outer fabric: Indigo-dyed cotton with white kasuri motifs
Lining: Plain black
Closure: Front ties
Pockets: None
Construction: Miyatsuguchi openings beneath the sleeves

Styling

Pair it with a white T-shirt and dark trousers to bring out the contrast between the indigo and white kasuri motifs.

It also works with denim or relaxed cotton trousers.

Wear it open as an easy outer layer during seasonal transitions, or indoors when summer air conditioning feels cool.

Measurements

Length, from back neckline to hem: 67 cm / 26.4 in
Chest width, measured flat under the arms: 57 cm / 22.4 in
Shoulder width: 58 cm / 22.8 in
Sleeve length, from shoulder to cuff: 32 cm / 12.6 in
Sleeve width: 27 cm / 10.6 in
Sleeve opening width: 17 cm / 6.7 in

Please allow for minor measurement variations.
Model height: 171 cm.

Condition

This garment has been washed, but an odor remains.
If you are sensitive to odors, please consider this carefully before purchasing.

The front ties are present.

As a vintage garment, it has a character and feel that differ from new clothing. Please review the photographs, measurements, and condition description.

If you have questions about sizing or condition, please contact us before purchasing.

For questions about sizing, returns, and customs, please visit our FAQ.

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