Exploring the 45-Year History & Quality of BARNSTORMER, a Japanese Brand that Specializes in Dress Fit Chinos

In 1977, there was someone in Japan who wanted to create real American chinos.

He was the founding designer of the brand 'BARNSTORMER'. He procured imported American sewing machines, replicated and created American chino fabric, and ended up creating chinos that would later be known as 'BARNSTORMER Trousers'.
 
I had the opportunity to talk to the son of the founder, Ebine Monroe, who is now the second-generation designer, at the combined atelier and shop located along the Sumida River in Kiyosumi Shirakawa, about the brand’s history from its foundation till now.

Creating MADE IN USA in Japan

“My father, who is the predecessor, started it in 1977. Back then, there weren’t as many apparel companies. Companies that brought over foreign brands and import select shops were just starting to appear.
 
"At that time, rather than bringing over imported goods, my father wanted to create American products exactly the way they are right here in Japan. The domestic production was mostly comprised of tailors and bespoke offerings as ready-to-wear options were less common. He searched for factories that would partner with him and started preparing to recreate the same thing in Japan as in America, sourcing sewing machines through a company that was importing American machines into Japan.