An interview with Denim Bridge founder Shingo-san

Recently, we added Denim Bridge to the jeans line-up at DC4. This small Japanese brand is run by one man: Shingo Oosawa. In order to learn a bit more about the man behind the brand and what drives him, we were able to ask him some questions.

Can you give us a brief introduction of yourself?
On a personal note: I'm born in 1976, and I have a wife and two children. I started to like jeans when I was in my early 20's. I started out by wearing jeans made by different brands to compare them. After a while, I wanted to start my own brand. This started with a website on denim, called Denimba (short for 'denim baka', or denim nerd' - DC4). Then in 2012, I started a jeans atelier with two craftsmen to share my passion for jeans by creating them.

How did you start making jeans?
I realized that a blog alone wasn't enough to convey what I thought was interesting and great about jeans. So, I decided to start producing my own jeans so I can put in all the details I think are important. I started sewing myself as well, as I think that designers who can actually craft instead of only draw are better designers.

How did you come up with the brand name?
When I started out making jeans I was introduced to several specialists. These connections were my 'bridge' to the denim world and I was able to start the brand. I decided to put the word 'bridge' in the brand name as not to forget the feeling of gratitude for this bridge and the connection to the people. Also, it would be great if the brand could become a bridge that connects people.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
My children are still small, so I'm playing with them. My daughter is 9 years old and my son is 4 years old. Sometimes I also go fishing. In my previous job, I managed a fishing pond (a place to fish for a fee).

Which jeans makers inspire you?
Any manufacturer that makes jeans at their own factory and workshop.

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Thanks for reading! Check out the small collection of Denim Bridge jeans we offer at DC4, including a custom model specially made for DC4.

Denim Bridge

We're excited to present a fairly unknown new denim brand at DC4: Denim Bridge. The brand is founded by Shingo-san, a very passionate denimhead hailing from the Saitama-area, north of Tokyo.

Exclusive at DC4

Denim Bridge isn't something you'll be seeing in any other jeans store: DC4 is the only shop outside of Japan where you can get your hands on a pair. The jeans are made in small batches and only by two very skilled artisans: Shingo-san himself and Kuniyoshi-san, the founder of Double Volante, which based in subtropical Okinawa.

Details

It's very clear Shingo-san puts a lot of love into his creations. This doesn't only show from the high quality denim, stitching and hardware, but by smaller details too. Pay attention to the heavy pocket lining, the creators signature hidden on the size label and the fact the leather patch is covered by a cotton protector. That's because even the patch gets a lot of attention: it's made from Minerva Liscio vegetable tanned leather. The tannery is based in San Miniato, Italy, the heart of the Tuscan leather district. The leather has a smooth, semi-gloss finish. It is drier than leathers stuffed with fats and waxes, so it’s quick to scratch, which adds depth and texture and your patch will age beautifully.

Denim style & sizing

The denim is rich in character and resembles a vintage style denim, this is also the type of fade you can expect. No heavy slubs and neps here. Shingo-san uses medium weight fabric (13.5oz and 14oz) which gets remarkably soft with wear. The jeans are preshrunk and we advice to get your regular size. Please do check if the inseam covers you: this differs per model and ranges from 34.6 inch to 37.2 inch.

The model lineup

We're offering four different models, all made out of 100% Memphis cotton:

BR05 S02
A quintessential regular straight pair, created out of 14oz denim.

BR04 S02 

The same denim as the BR05, but in a slim tapered cut. 

BR03 01
A tight straight fit from a slightly lighter, super soft 13.5oz denim. These jeans are made in Okinawa by Double Volante. 

BR02 SA Antique - a DC4 Exclusive 

We'll be honest here: this is our personal favourite. Produced exclusively for DC4, this vintage cut features both belt loops as suspender buttons, a back cinch and a single-stitch construction. One pair takes a staggering 20 hours to produce. The fit is inspired by Levi's from 1922, which is roomier, yet still features a tapered leg. 

Don't wait too long if you want to get your hands on a pair. Stock is limited and as you can imagine, it takes a while to restock as well.