Etsuzo Shitara and Osamu Shigematsu founded Beams in 1976, modeled after the 'Ivy style'. Shigematsu's passion for vintage attire, particularly classic Americana, led to numerous shopping trips to the United States. However, because of the physical differences between American and Japanese men, Japanese consumers had to have their purchases tailored.

Shigematsu, a connoisseur of perfect tailoring, was known to collaborate with suppliers to create pieces tailored to the Japanese body. As a result, an iconic brand noted for its semi-couture quality has emerged.

Beams menswear focuses on interpreting international styles (French casual wear, European tailoring, and American preppy style) through a Japanese lens to create something truly distinctive. Beams Plus, their menswear sub-label, is a preppy, nostalgic dream, with argyle checks, letterman coats, corduroy, and an autumnal color palette.

However, that is not the only thing the sub-label represents. It expresses a desire for authenticity and a dedication to a detail-oriented, quality-conscious construction that may be worn for a lifetime. Beams Plus has timeless clothing that pays homage to the golden period of American design.

Over the years, Beams has collaborated with a variety of designers and brands, including Nike, Champion, and Levi's. The company has also expanded globally, opening stores in Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, and other cities around the world.

Founded: 1976
Founders: Etsuzo Shitara and Osamu Shigematsu
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beams_official/
Website: https://www.beams.co.jp/

Urban Research is one of the most affordable Japanese menswear brands and was founded in 1991. The company's mission is to offer a sophisticated, contemporary wardrobe for urban professionals with a focus on high-quality materials and timeless design.

Urban Research's clothing and accessory lines feature a range of styles, from classic to modern, with an emphasis on simple, clean lines and neutral colors. The brand's collections include both men's and women's clothing, as well as accessories such as bags, shoes, and jewelry.

In addition to its fashion offerings, Urban Research also operates a chain of lifestyle stores called Urban Research Doors, which offer a curated selection of furniture, home goods, and beauty products. The company's stores are known for their stylish and minimalist interiors, which create a relaxing and sophisticated shopping environment.

Overall, Urban Research is a Japanese brand that is known for its understated, sophisticated style and high-quality products. The company's fashion and lifestyle offerings are designed for urban professionals who appreciate clean, timeless designs and premium materials.

Founded: 1991

Founders: Zdenka Havlova, Marco Reggiani, and Zhouyan Wu

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urban_research/

Website: https://www.urban-research.jp/

Muji is a Japanese retail company that offers a range of products, including household goods, clothing, and food items. The name "Muji" is derived from the Japanese words "Mujirushi Ryohin," which means "no brand, quality goods."

Founded in 1980, it has become a well-known brand worldwide for its minimalist and functional designs. The company prides itself on its simple and environmentally friendly approach to design, as well as its commitment to using sustainable materials and reducing waste.

In Singapore, Muji operates several stores, including a flagship store in Plaza Singapura. The stores offer a wide range of products, including furniture, stationery, kitchenware, and apparel.

One of Muji's most popular products is its stationery line, which includes pens, notebooks, and other office supplies. The company's stationery products are known for their minimalist design and high quality, making them popular among students and professionals alike.

Muji's clothing line is also popular, with a focus on simple, comfortable designs made from natural materials such as cotton and linen. The company's clothing line includes a range of basic essentials such as t-shirts, sweaters, and jeans, as well as seasonal collections.

In addition to its retail stores, Muji also operates cafes in some locations, serving a range of food and beverage items, including coffee, tea, and pastries.

Founded: 1980

Founder: Tadao Yoshida

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muji_global/

Website: https://www.muji.eu/

United Arrows inaugurated its 256th location in Roppongi Hills last year. Along with its main line and subsidiary labels, this contemporary Japanese label, founded in 1989 by Beams guru Osamu Shigematsu, sells a variety of international and domestic brands.

United Arrows is a Tokyo streetwear mainstay owing to designers Poggy Kogi and Yasuto Kamoshita, who each bring their unique visual sensibility to the brand. Kogi brings a quirky, electric mood to the table, while Kamoshita brings Saville Row-level craftsmanship. However, the brand is held together (pun intended) by a strong foundation in Japanese style.

Collaborations with The North Face Purple Label for the water-repellent, casual fit Field Denali Jacket and Dr. Martens for bespoke premium snaffle loafers in two colorways: black premium Luxor leather and bottle green premium Hi suede are among the menswear pieces.

Their most recent collection includes caps, jeans, striped tees, button-down shirts, and other items. Their oversized polo shirts, designed in conjunction with Russell Athletic, bring a modern twist to the basic tee with dropped shoulders and elbow-length sleeves—a wonderful way for guys to look effortlessly elegant while still adding an edge.

Founded: 1989
Founders: Osamu Shigematsu and Yusuke Takahashi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unitedarrows_official/
Website: https://store.united-arrows.co.jp/brand/ua/

Uniqlo U is a sub-brand of Uniqlo, a popular Japanese clothing brand that has become a global phenomenon. Uniqlo U was launched in 2016 with the aim of creating a high-quality, modern, and functional line of clothing. The brand was designed by Christophe Lemaire, a French fashion designer who was previously the artistic director of Hermès.

At the heart of the Uniqlo U brand is a focus on simplicity and clean design. The collections often feature oversized jackets, knitwear, and loose-fitting pants, all made with premium materials and expert construction. The brand also places an emphasis on sustainability, with a commitment to using eco-friendly fabrics and reducing waste.

One of the key aspects of Uniqlo U is its focus on innovation. The brand has a team of researchers who are constantly experimenting with new fabrics and technologies to create clothing that is both functional and stylish. For example, the brand has developed a range of innovative fabrics such as AIRism, which is designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking, and Heattech, which uses technology to trap body heat and keep the wearer warm.

Founded: 2016

Founder: Christophe Lemaire

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uniqlo/

Website: https://www.uniqlo.com/us/en/spl/collaborations/uniqlo-u/men

GU is a popular Japanese fashion brand that offers affordable and trendy clothing for men, women, and children. It is a sister brand of Uniqlo and operates under the Fast Retailing Group, which also owns other well-known brands.

GU focuses on providing fashion-forward and affordable apparel that appeals to a wide range of customers. The brand offers a diverse range of clothing items, including T-shirts, shirts, jeans, trousers, dresses, skirts, outerwear, and accessories.

One of the key selling points of GU is its competitive pricing. The brand aims to deliver affordable fashion without compromising on quality. They achieve this by optimizing their production and supply chain processes, allowing them to offer stylish and well-made clothing at lower price points.

GU is known for its fast-fashion approach, with frequent releases of new collections and items that follow the latest fashion trends. Their clothing is often designed to be versatile, allowing customers to mix and match different pieces to create their own personal style.

The brand has both physical stores and an online presence, making their products accessible to customers in Japan and select international markets. GU's affordability, trendy designs, and wide product range have made it a popular choice among budget-conscious fashion enthusiasts.

Founded: 1973
Founder: James Averdieck
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uniqlo/
Website: https://www.gu-global.com/jp/ja/

Wacko Maria is a Japanese menswear brand known for its unique and eclectic designs that blend elements of streetwear, rock 'n' roll, and high-end fashion. The brand was founded in 2005 by Keiji Ishizuka and Atsuhiko Mori, who were inspired by their shared passion for music and subcultures.

Wacko Maria offers a range of clothing and accessories for men, including shirts, T-shirts, jackets, pants, denim, knitwear, and accessories like hats, wallets, and bags. Their designs often feature bold patterns, graphics, embroidery, and prints that reflect their rebellious and edgy aesthetic.

The brand has collaborated with various artists, musicians, and brands, further enhancing its reputation for unique and artistic creations. Wacko Maria's collaborations have included partnerships with the likes of Converse, Suicoke, and Fragment Design, among others.

In addition to their clothing line, Wacko Maria also operates a record label called "Wacko Maria Entertainment," further highlighting their connection to music and subcultures. Wacko Maria products are often priced in the mid-to-high range, reflecting the brand's focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Their garments are known for their premium materials, precise tailoring, and distinct design elements.

Founded: 2005

Founders: Keiji Ishizuka and Atsuhiko Mori

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wackomaria_guiltyparties/?hl=vi

Website: https://wackomaria.co.jp/

Journal Standard is a Japanese fashion brand that offers a range of clothing and accessories for both men and women. The brand was established in 1998 and is known for its clean and timeless designs with a focus on quality materials and craftsmanship.

The Journal Standard has multiple lines under its umbrella, each with its own unique style and target audience. These lines include Journal Standard, Journal Standard Relume, and Journal Standard Homestead, among others. The brand caters to various fashion preferences, from classic and casual to contemporary and streetwear-inspired.

In addition to clothing, Journal Standard also offers a selection of accessories such as shoes, bags, and jewelry. The brand's aesthetic is often characterized by a blend of traditional and modern elements, combining refined tailoring with elements of Japanese heritage and global fashion trends.

Journal Standard operates its own retail stores in Japan, where customers can experience the brand's carefully curated collections firsthand. The brand has gained popularity for its attention to detail, quality materials, and understated yet sophisticated designs.

Founded: 1848
Founder: Yoshio Ichinose
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journalstandard.jp/
Website: https://journal-standard.jp/

Neighborhood is a renowned Japanese menswear brand that was founded by Shinsuke Takizawa in 1994. Shinsuke Takizawa, often referred to as Shin, is the founder and creative force behind the brand.

Shin Takizawa has a strong background and interest in motorcycle culture, which heavily influences the aesthetic and design philosophy of Neighborhood. The brand draws inspiration from elements of vintage Americana, military, and motorcycle subcultures, combining them with a contemporary Japanese twist.

Neighborhood has gained a reputation for its rugged and edgy style, often incorporating bold graphics, intricate embroidery, and distinctive prints into its designs. The brand is known for its attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and use of premium materials in its garments.

Over the years, Neighborhood has collaborated with various brands and artists, including the likes of adidas, Fragment Design, WTAPS, and Supreme, among others. These collaborations have further elevated the brand's visibility and popularity within the fashion industry.

Shin Takizawa's creative vision and commitment to authenticity have helped establish Neighborhood as a prominent player in the Japanese menswear scene. His passion for motorcycle culture and subcultures is evident in the brand's collections, which continue to resonate with fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

Founded: 2011

Founder: Shinsuke Takizawa

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neighborhood_official/

Website: https://www.neighborhood.jp/

Blue Blue Japan is a Japanese clothing brand known for its expertise in indigo dyeing and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The brand was founded in 1996 by Kenji Tsuji, who remains the creative director.

Blue Blue Japan takes inspiration from Japan's rich textile heritage, focusing on the use of natural indigo dye and traditional dyeing techniques. The brand is renowned for its deep, vibrant shades of blue, achieved through multiple dips in indigo baths. This dedication to indigo dyeing sets Blue Blue Japan apart and creates a distinct aesthetic.

The brand offers a wide range of menswear items, including denim jeans, jackets, shirts, and traditional Japanese garments like kimono-inspired pieces and happi coats. Their collections often incorporate traditional Japanese motifs, patterns, and textiles, creating a fusion of modern and traditional elements.

Craftsmanship is highly valued by Blue Blue Japan, and they work with skilled artisans who employ time-honored techniques to create their garments. Attention to detail, quality materials, and meticulous construction are hallmarks of Blue Blue Japan's products.

Founded: 1996
Founder: Kenji Tsuji
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blue_blue_japan/
Website: https://www.bluebluejapan.com/

Nano Universe is a Japanese fashion brand that offers a wide range of clothing and accessories for both men and women. The brand was founded in 1989 and has since gained popularity for its stylish and versatile designs.

Nano Universe aims to provide clothing that blends classic styles with contemporary elements, offering a balance between timeless fashion and modern trends. Their collections include a variety of apparel such as shirts, T-shirts, sweaters, jackets, trousers, skirts, and dresses. They also offer accessories like bags, belts, and shoes.

One of the strengths of Nano Universe is its ability to cater to different fashion preferences and occasions. They provide options for casual everyday wear, smart-casual outfits, as well as more formal attire. Their clothing often features clean lines, well-fitted cuts, and attention to detail, creating a polished and sophisticated look.

In terms of price, Nano Universe occupies a mid-range position, offering quality garments at a reasonable price point. They prioritize the use of high-quality materials and craftsmanship to ensure durability and comfort.

Founded: 1989

Founder: Hiroshi Matsuda

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanouniverse_official/

Website: http://www.nanouniverse.jp/