Okada Textile’s new Okada Textile: Japanese Eco-Fur Bags is made from Super Fox, an eco-fur known for its thick volume and lightweight. The bag features a long handle for carrying by hand or shoulder, and its sized for versatile use. The outer surface adopts a two-color design, with 11-different colors available to choose from. “Despite its name, eco-fur can refer to various types and qualities of fur. The best quality eco-fur has a fluffy texture and durability to allow for for longterm continual use,” says Reiko Okada, who oversaw the product’s development. After working in apparel sales, Okada joined the family business, and now develops and designs products, and oversees mail order operations.

Formerly known as “Fake Fur,” eco-fur is an artificial material known for its heat insulating capabilities, soft texture, and beautiful and refined appearance. In recent years, fur products are being discontinued across the globe due to animal rights concerns. In its place, alternate materials such as eco-fur are receiving lots of attention. Koyaguchi, Wakayama Prefecture is the nation’s largest producer of pile fabrics. While processing numbers have dropped almost 10% since their peak, there are many local producers skilled in dying, sewing, and processing techniques, and the history and traditions of the area’s textile industry are still being recognized.

Ever process required to manufacture Okada Textile: Japanese Eco-Fur Bagss is handled here in Koyaguchi. Starting with the initial manual raising process, in which the raw material is carefully brushed, Koyaguchi is home to numerous techniques and respected approaches that can’t be found anywhere else. Moving forward, the company plans to further popularize this high quality, locally produced eco-fur across the world by creating original products to showcase its versatile appeal.