Thursday 29 April 2021

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.