Sukajan, or souvenir jackets, originated in Japan during the post-WW2 occupation, popular amongst American GIs to bring home as souvenirs - hence the name. The jackets were styled after baseball/varsity jackets, colourful and often reversible, and made of rayon, silk or sometimes the remnants of parachute capes. Soldiers had various designs handstitched onto their jackets, usually a blend of Japanese and American cultural themes, often approximating tattoo designs in style. Vintage sukajan are highly sought after.
This beauty is dated to between 1953 and 1961 and is fully reversible. One side features an peach and silver body; the front is adorned with stunning embroidered mountains in gold, pink and green thread, and silver trim pockets. The back has an stunning large embroidered tiger with gold and silver thread.
The second side has a vibrant blue and silver body with silver trim pockets, embroidered eagles in red and gold on front and stunning large embroidered eagle on back.
Foam-backed quilted silk/rayon construction, with striped maroon white & navy rib knit cuffs and hem. Raglan sleeves. Original CSF Tokyo double sided zipper. Handmade in Japan.
Some sunfading and wear in the sleeves/neck that can be mended for free with purchase if requested.
Flat Measurements:
Armpit to Armpit: 19“
Shoulder to Shoulder: ~16“ (raglan sleeves)
Sleeve Length: 29“ from neck (raglan sleeves)
Total Length: 22“
Head to our Sizing Guide to see if this will fit you.
*Please note, all of our items are vintage and used and will naturally have some wear. We think it all just adds to the piece’s charm. We’ll always do our best to properly document any obvious imperfections.
**Colors may vary slightly between photos on screen and actual piece.