TAILOR TOYO / Vietnam Jacket Skull Aging Model

TAILOR TOYO
The souvenir jacket—known today as the “sukajan”—is at the heart of Tailor Toyo’s history. After World War II, American soldiers stationed in Japan began commissioning embroidered jackets featuring oriental motifs and military insignias as keepsakes. These pieces were later commercialized as souvenirs. The company that supplied these garments, including the original souvenir jackets, to U.S. military bases was Kosho & Co.—the predecessor of Tailor Toyo. Today, Tailor Toyo remains the only brand that continues to preserve and evolve the sukajan as a true cultural heritage, rather than a passing trend.







Refined Drape in Rayon-Blend Cotton Twill
The fabric combines cotton twill with rayon, creating a soft yet resilient texture that feels smooth against the skin. A special finishing process adds a naturally worn-in look, subtle fading, and gentle drape, evoking the charm of a well-loved vintage piece from day one. The result is a relaxed, easy-to-wear jacket that pairs effortlessly with modern wardrobes.



The lining is made from acetate for a smooth glide when worn. With no padding, the jacket offers a light, fluid drape and can be worn comfortably across seasons.





One-of-a-Kind Embroidery Inspired by Squadron Patches
The chest features an intricate embroidered design of a skull wearing a conical hat, alongside the auspicious “福” (fortune) character—both motifs traditionally found on Vietnam jackets.



The back showcases a large embroidered skull motif, echoing the front design. This skull-in-hat artwork was inspired by an actual squadron patch used by the U.S. military, making it a rare and historically rich detail.



The surrounding text—“MAG. 39,” “QUAN TRI,” “R.V.N.,” and “SECURITY”—references the 39th Marine Air Group based in QUANG TRI, Vietnam, during the war. This meticulous historical connection adds depth and authenticity to the embroidery.



The front zipper features the brand’s original “T.Y.E” butterfly zip, modeled after 1950s hand-bent “Tokyo Zipper.” 



The sleeves feature embroidered dragons—an oriental motif favored by American soldiers for its symbolism of strength and good fortune. The cuff buttons are inspired by old Japanese coins, adding a distinctive souvenir-like touch that stays true to the jacket’s roots.





Lightweight and Relaxed Fit
While maintaining the slightly cropped silhouette of the original Vietnam jacket, the fit has been refined for a modern aesthetic. The soft ribbed hem ensures comfort and flexibility, allowing easy layering with other pieces. A versatile design that blends heritage craftsmanship with contemporary wearability.