Originating in post-WWII Japan, souvenir jackets were commissioned by occupying American soldiers to commemorate their time overseas and included bright, ornately hand-crafted designs, mixing both Eastern and Western themes.
Life had hit rock bottom for many Japanese people, who struggled to make ends meet amidst soaring inflation and a plummeting yen.
However, they soon realized tremendous business potential in selling goods to soldiers stationed in Japan.
Japanese (and even Chinese) dragons, tigers, cherry blossoms and trees sat side-by-side with American eagles, military iconography and phraseology, making them the OG fashion collab.
Collared and quilted bombers were crafted (sometimes from excess parachute silk) but it’s the varsity-style shawl collar jacket that has become popular with vintage hunters and modern designers alike.
You’ll have probably seen souvenir jackets a lot recently – on catwalks, celebrities and in street style shots.
But getting your hands on a decent style yourself has been quite a challenge.
No worries, we got you covered.
The search is over now.
Alpha Industries Japan Dragon Souvenir Jacket
178138-07
07 Rep Blue
Price: £215.00
Alpha Industries Japan Dragon Souvenir Jacket
178138-184
184 Burgundy
Price: £215.00
