A Resilient Tradition, Preserved Through Adversity: The Story of Kyoto Mizuai

Delicate blues with strong canvas—The refined, elegant aesthetic of Mizuai reflects the artisanal heritage and attention to detail for which Kyoto is renowned. Our garments, dyed with this rare indigo, embody the unique melding of the rich beauty of Kyoto Mizuai with the strength and endurance of Okayama canvas.

At SEUVAS, we are committed to preserving traditional craftsmanship while embracing sustainable practices. This ethos is reflected in our decision to use the rare and expertly crafted Kyoto Mizuai indigo for our latest collection.

The Delicate Hue of Kyoto's Heritage

Kyoto has long been celebrated for its unique indigo dyeing tradition. Unlike the darker, more intense shades commonly associated with indigo, Kyoto Mizuai boasts a lighter, ethereal hue, achieved through meticulous cultivation and dyeing processes honed over generations. This unique shade perfectly aligns with the elegance and attention to detail that Kyoto is known for, making it an ideal choice for our garments, which embody the city's rich artisanal spirit. 

The story of Kyoto Mizuai is one of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. In the late Meiji era (late 19th century), the domestic production of indigo in Japan faced a steep decline due to the influx of cheaper synthetic dyes imported from abroad. During World War II, the cultivation of indigo was even prohibited by the government, leading to the near extinction of this tradition.

However, the artisans refused to let their craft die. In a clandestine effort to preserve their heritage, these dedicated craftsmen smuggled precious indigo seeds from Kyoto to Tokushima, where the cultivation of indigo could continue in secret. This act of defiance ensured that the knowledge and techniques of Kyoto Mizuai were not lost to time.

The production of Mizuai involves meticulous techniques passed down over centuries. The indigo plants are carefully grown, harvested, and the leaves are dried and fermented through a lengthy process. The fermented indigo leaves are then hydrated and allowed to further ferment over months until the deep blue "sukumo" is ready for use in dyeing fabrics and garments. This painstaking natural dyeing method, using only the indigo leaves and wood ash lye, produces the unique light blue hue that defines Kyoto Mizuai.

Beyond its exquisite color, indigo dye is valued for its antibacterial, insect-repellent, and deodorizing properties. Historically, people wore indigo-dyed garments for these beneficial effects as well as the color's auspicious symbolism. The natural indigo dye is also known to strengthen fabrics and protect against damage from bugs and insects over time. This makes Kyoto Mizuai indigo not just aesthetically valuable, but also highly practical and perfectly suitable for SEUVAS’ long-lasting, sustainably produced garments.

A Revival and a Celebration

Today, the cultivation of Kyoto Mizuai indigo has been revived, thanks to the dedication of artisans who learned from the indigo masters of T okushima and obtained the precious seeds that had been safeguarded for centuries. At SEUVAS, by choosing to use Kyoto Mizuai indigo for our collection, we not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto but also pay homage to the resilience and determination of those who risked everything to preserve this ancient tradition. Each piece dyed with this rare indigocarries a story of perseverance, a testament to the enduring spirit of Kyoto's artisans, and a commitment to preserving the city's refined aesthetic for generations to come.