In the 1960s, "
VAN" popularized the style known as the "Ivy League Look" in Japan. This brand significantly contributed to the development of post-war Japanese fashion. Fun fact: over 70 years since its founding, it still attracts collaboration requests from young designers.
Today, we dive into the history and essential knowledge of VAN through an interview with the press representative of
VAN JACKET INC.Swift Adoption of the Ivy League Look in Japan
"VAN was established in 1948 by a figure named Kensuke Ishizu. He is renowned for spreading American culture alongside western clothing in post-war Japan. "Initially, the brand produced suits, known at the time as 'suit,' but during that era, the fashion trend of the 'Ivy League Look' (or simply 'Ivy Look')—which included navy blazers and button-down shirts infused with sporty casual aesthetics—was popular among Ivy League students in the United States. I believe introducing that style to Japan early on led to the modern image of VAN."