Kapital Founder Toshikiyo Hirata Passes Away, Leaving a Legacy of Denim Craftsmanship

Toshikiyo Hirata, the visionary behind the renowned Japanese denim brand Kapital, has sadly passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy of craftsmanship and creativity. Hirata’s journey began in the 1980s when a trip to the US inspired him to delve into the world of American denim from the 1950s.

Upon his return to Japan, Hirata immersed himself in mastering the art of denim production in Kojima, a city dubbed the denim capital. In 1984, he established his denim factory, meticulously replicating the quality of vintage American denim. The following year, in 1985, he officially founded Kapital, drawing inspiration from his time in the US.

Kapital quickly gained recognition for its exquisite denim pieces, workwear aesthetics, and Americana-influenced designs. The brand garnered a cult following for its unique blend of eclectic styles and artisanal workmanship, with a focus on limited-production denim garments.

In 2002, Hirata’s son, Kiro Hirata, joined the brand, bringing a fresh perspective on contemporary fashion and marketing strategies. Together, they expanded Kapital’s offerings beyond denim, venturing into new territories within the fashion industry.

Building on their expertise in denim production, Kapital delved into experimenting with natural and synthetic dyes, intricate hand-stitching techniques, and a diverse range of apparel and accessories. The brand’s collections evolved to incorporate a mix of streetwear influences and cultural references, all while staying true to its denim roots.

While Hirata never envisioned himself as a fashion designer, his passion for denim craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail laid the foundation for Kapital’s success. Under Kiro’s leadership, the brand introduced Kapital-Kountry, a sub-brand offering pre-distressed products with a distinct personality.