Needles

Needles came to life in 1988, spun out of Keizo Shimizu’s Nepenthes universe — the Japanese retail empire he built after years spent sourcing obscure American workwear and military gems. What began as his personal archive evolved into a cult label remixing Americana through a distinctly Japanese lens, with vintage cues, eccentric twists and the occasional psychedelic detour across Needles clothing.

The brand's undisputed icon is the Needles tracksuit — the butterfly‑embroidered set that’s become a streetwear staple, appearing in everything from classic poly knits to plush velour. The butterfly motif itself nods to Steve McQueen’s Papillon tattoo, in the 1973 film. Alongside the cult‑favourite Needles track jacket, the brand’s signatures include reconstructed flannels, western‑leaning shirting, relaxed tailoring and wide‑leg trousers that borrow heavily from military fatigues.

Rebuild by Needles pushes things further, slicing up vintage garments and stitching them into one‑off hybrids like the Needles 7 Cuts shirt.