Takaokami Brings a Rainvolution to Rainwear

A “rainvolution” has arrived by way of Denmark native Emma Jorn, the designer and creator of clothing brand Takaokami. Jorn recently launched the collection “Sometimes it Rains” consisting of women’s rainwear geared toward urban bicycle riders.

After too many rainy days spent feeling “swampy” in overly practical and completely lackluster rain gear, Jorn took on the challenge of crafting a collection of rainwear that people would find both attractive and fun to wear.

With a focus on design by necessity, Jorn started her research for Takaokami on the streets of Denmark. Here, she noted exactly where people were getting wet while riding around on their bikes. “I would take photos of people biking around,” explained Jorn, “and found that mostly people were getting wet on the tops of their heads, shoulders, and the most annoying was the thighs and knees.”

Following her fascination for Japanese aesthetic, Jorn continued her research on trip to Japan. “It rained almost the entire time I was there,” said Jorn, “I was so pleased.” She soon found that the rain didn’t intimidate the Japanese and was intrigued by the integration of rainwear into their everyday outfits. Combing what Jorn believed to be Japan’s embrace of rainwear with a little Danish influence lead to Takaokami. Named after the legendary Japanese dragon and spiritual deity of rain.

When asked what piece Jorn has worn most often, she said the Rain Skirt due to its versatility and complete thigh protection, “It’s really just what I needed.” The bottom hem is double-layered to provide enough weight to keep the skirt in place even when the wind picks up. A zipper runs down the side for easy wardrobe changes or quick shake offs before entering a party. Like all  pieces in the collection, the Rain Skirt is manufactured at an eco-focused factory in China from PU-coated polyester that is completely waterproof.

The rest of the line includes a practical Rain Hat with a large brim, a Rain Dress with a full front zipper and playful sleeves that double as a hood, and a few experimental pieces including a rain cape that can be worn by three people at once.

Jorn said that she is pleased so far by the positive feedback about the collection and when we spoke to her was eagerly anticipating the response to Takaokami during Vancouver Eco Fashion week where her designs graced the runway on March 23, 2014.

What does the future hold for Takaokami? A expansion to included items for men, kids, and dogs as well as releasing color options.

takaokami.com