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I was first introduced to Japanese minimalistic designer Soichiro Ito’s soe shirts in April 2009, when the lovely people from TANGS dressed me up for Zouk’s 10th Anniversary party.

31-year-old Soichiro crafts shirts in a certain manner that reminds one of the decadent 80s, where the Ad Man sips one too many martinis (stirred, not shaken,  which is the proper way mind you) in his freshly pressed crisp white shirt, armoured with a sharp tuxedo. Thankfully, Soichirco skims down the excess of the era and replaces it with a dose of sleekness and elegance distinct of the Japanese design. soe was last picked up by L’Eclaireur in Paris for the Autumn of 2008.

I’m surprised TANGS would be bold enough to bring in an understated, niche brand unknown to the masses into their Men’s section. Quite refreshing to be honest. I mean, yes we all love our Armanis and Pradas, but I reckon the Japanese cut fits the Asian body better. How many of us Asians have the bodies of Hugh Jackman anyways?

soe’s new spring/ summer 2009 collection is out and it looks like on a mission to bring back the school kid in all of us. Can’t wait to wear my newly acquired New Kid Revival tee to work next week.