In this blog, I want to introduce some items that we have been selling to our US-based customers and what has been trending. With the current state of the trade between the US – China, we hope that this will shed some light into what materials apparel (and non-apparel) buyers are purchasing from Japan.
Ribbons
Specifically Velvet ribbons are trending, though there is always a fair share of Shindo SIC grosgrain ribbons being sent out. Velvet ribbons are actually so versatile and are not only bought by apparel brands but gift wrapping, (hair) accessories, and so much more.
There are single sided and double sided velvet ribbons, but the double sided has been more popular. Check out the 6290 ribbon below. They come in various colors and widths!
6290 – Double-Sided Velvet Ribbons
You can purchase most colors in all sizes, the only ones not available in 36mm and 48mm are the numbers with the circle on them as indicated at the bottom right of the sample card shown above. The manufacturer does not produce these (hence not in stock) as a standard. They are available as a custom order as these ribbons are piece dyed, however, as they are considered a custom order, they require about 30 rolls as a MCQ/MOQ. Please inquire about the current MOQ, pricing, and lead time if interested. With 37 colors and 8 sizes ranging from 3mm to 48mm, you are sure to find a one that fits your need!
High Density Fabric
DIfferent high density twills/chinos are being bought by various brands. High density fabric has a higher thread count than normal twills and chinos and have high durability and structure. Often used in menswear, the high density/ high count twill and chinos come in more neutral colors of beige, khaki, and gray,
Unique Denim
The US and Japan are known for their respective denim productions, however Japan has unique jacquard, patterned, and colored denim that I think shows unique characteristics. These unique denims can be used to help maintain and create a brand specific feeling and vibe. We have been sending out some unique denim lately and think its pretty cool to see them trending~
HI50158 – 13.13oz Natural Indigo Rope Dyed Denim

From Jacquard to motifs to plain BUT genuine natural indigo dye (which is quite uncommon nowadays as most denim is dyed with synthetic indigo…), there are many unique denims from different manufacturers, come take a look here!
That’s it for now, I hope this was interesting and perhaps helpful in getting an insight on what is trending and what people are buying from Japan, and more specifically from us at ApparelX.
ApparelX is a BtoB ecommerce platform for brands, tailors and the like to order from small MOQs from a variety of manufacturers in one order. And we ship worldwide!
Check out our FAQ page, Youtube, and LinkedIn if you have basic questions or looking to stay connected.
If you are looking to bulk order, custom order, or have any other questions, contact us through our contact form and a member on the Global Strategy Team will get back to you within the next business day. (Please understand that we are based in Japan and our office hours are 9am-6pm so we are only able to answer during that time).