A&S 2021SS Botanical Dyes July

〈Botanical Dye〉was one of our main focuses of the Arts & Science 2021 Spring / Summer collection. The timely expressions of Japan were portrayed using various color botanical dyes of the season. This feature began in February and now will finish this month.
July’s theme is “Banka” - Late Summer. The light grays colors of the mouse and blue lapis lazuli. We share with you the expressions of Kumoi Nezu light gray in and Hekiruri bright lapis lazuli of July.

＊Please see the past publications from the link below.
A&S 2021SS Botanical Dyes: February / March / April / May / June

Sesame light gray

Sesamum indicum L.／Kurogoma (Pedaliaceae, Sesamum)

【Japanese color name】 Kumoi Nezu

Black sesame is an annual plant native to Africa and is said to have been cultivated in ancient Egypt and India. Seeds are used as foodstuffs and cooking oils, and are also used as medicinal drugs. The Japanese name, Kumoi Nezu, means gray – a name with an elegant sense of dignity. At A&S, we have chosen the expression in a light gray color.

Gardenia bright blue

Gardenia jasminoides／Gardenia (Rubiaceae, Gardenia)

【Japanese color name】 Hekiruri

Gardenia grows naturally in the mountains of the wild, and the evergreen shrub is often cultivated for horticulture. It is used not only for ornamental purposes but also for medicinal drugs and coloring agents. The Japanese color name Hekiruri is a metaphorical expression of lush, clear water and sky. At A&S, we have expressed the dye tone in a bright lapis lazuli color.

About botanical dyes

Botanical dyeing is a special technique that extracts natural pigments from plants, (flowers, leaves, roots, stems, trees, bark, fruits, etc.) produced without using a mordant*.
As the fabric adsorbs starch made of protein blended with a very small percentage of chemical dyes, it is possible to bring out the vivid color of the plant itself at the same time preventing future discoloration due to sunlight and washing. Naturally-derived dyes contain many variations of pigments in one color, and each of the color diffusely reflected by light gives an impression of a three-dimensional, expressive hue visible to the human eye.

The reason behind why A&S chooses to develop natural dyes lies in our desire to express the living colors derived from the raw materials, and to honor the wisdom and technology that have been passed down from generation to generation. We respect the actions took to keep these skills intact and the special outcomes in the extensive process. We find this added value portrays a meaningful message when we create our collections. You can experience the tasteful seasons of Japan solely in the colors themselves.

*mordant = A substance that helps to fix dyes to fibers

Morus alba／Mulberry (Moraceae, Mulberry)

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INFORMATION

※ Please note the screen appearance of colors may vary from the actual item depending on the model, standards, and settings of your display and monitor.
※ For inquiries, please contact each shop directly or use our contact form.
※ Please note items may not be available due to limited quantities.

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