Diamond Checker Cutting Cape

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The diamond check pattern, inspired by the graphic intersection of black and white marble floors in 19th-century French mansions and Italian harlequin costumes, embodies both traditional context and the spirit of punk.

Harlequin Context

Originally a costume for Arlecchino, a clown character in 16th-century Italian Commedia dell'arte, it emerged as a fabric design for stage costumes in the 1920s, then was adopted as high fashion by Elsa Schiaparelli around 1940.

Argyle Context

Originating from the tartan of the Scottish Clan Campbell in the 17th century, it became popular as British golf wear in the 1920s. It was revived and became a staple in US cardigans and other items in the 1950s.

It's safe to say this is a favorite backdrop for mid-century-loving barbershops.

Checkerboard Context

In the 1970s and 80s, it permeated street culture by becoming an icon of skate/punk culture through Vans slip-ons.

This context might be the most commonly known design background.

A few years ago, a VANS Hong Kong TV commercial featuring Nakamura Shoten's cutting cape was aired.

Having permeated youth culture over time, it has now become a widely used and established pattern in modern society.

What kind of barbershop should use this design?

tagline

#midcentury
#streetmix

Any shop that wants to emphasize these two elements should definitely have one of these.

And they should share this cultural background with their customers, using it as a conversation starter.

Don't imitate others; wear a story.

Because that's what speaks to your brand and your customers' brands.