We are launching our Chore Coat under the new series name "Cat a log."
The name embodies two concepts: enjoying workwear as if browsing through an old catalog—drawing inspiration from vintage archives—and the "log" (record) created as the wearer develops their own unique fading patterns over time.
*Note: The font on the chest tag has been updated to read "Catalog."
Going forward, the front and cuff buttons will also be switched to new ones as current stock runs out.
At TCB, new projects often begin with the discovery of a specific vintage piece; however, this time we started without having found a perfect sample to base it on.
All we had on hand were the heart-shaped buttons...
...and a pair of overalls made of "MASTER CLOTH" from that same era.
That is where it all began.
Some of you may already know that TCB’s projects often kick off after encountering a particular vintage item.
These are cases where I acquire something—using the excuse of "reclaiming a childhood dream"—such as an item I once gazed at through a shop window, something I’d only seen in magazines, or a special vintage piece worn by a performer on TV.
Or, as seen with the "Viktor's Voice" project, it might involve borrowing a rare piece—the kind that never even makes it to the racks of a vintage shop—to use as a reference.
But I want to be upfront about this project:
We started without having found a perfect sample to base it on.
All we had on hand were the heart-shaped buttons...
...and a pair of overalls made of "MASTER CLOTH" from that same era.
That is where we started. The reason is simple: it was a jacket I had always wanted to make.
And of course, I felt that if I was going to do it, it *had* to feature those heart-shaped buttons.
We referenced the vintage overalls for the fabric and the "MASTER CLOTH" label.
For the warp, we used a #7 yarn with natural, subtle slubs—avoiding an artificial look—while the weft uses a finer #16 yarn with a slightly lower thread count. By using a weft yarn that is finer than the warp, the uneven texture of the warp yarn stands out prominently; this results in a 10oz 2x1 denim fabric that produces distinct vertical fading.
For the color, we deliberately chose 100% synthetic indigo without any additives.
The number of dyeing dips is lower than that of 1920s "XX Denim," resulting in a brighter shade.
For those who already own a TCB coverall and are wondering about the texture of this new fabric:
It is slightly softer than the fabric used for the Tabby's Jacket, though the blue hue is similar.
The twill weave is clearly visible despite the 2x1 construction, and the unevenness of the warp yarns is apparent to the eye; compared to the Black Cat Jacket or Tabby's Jacket, you can expect the kind of rugged fading characteristic of vintage garments.
What is the basis for this Chore Coat?
I own a couple of vintage pieces from the 1940s and 50s.
While basing the silhouette on those Chore Coats, I referenced various historical materials to craft a piece that aligns with the 1920s aesthetic—incorporating the "Master Cloth" label, heart-shaped buttons, and period-accurate details.
Features include a square collar with a center seam, eyelet-attached removable buttons, adjustable top buttons and cuffs, and set-in sleeves with a low sleeve head (a detail also replicated on the Two Cats Blouse). If I were to encounter an actual vintage piece in the future, there might be differences from what I’ve imagined.
It’s the reverse of a sci-fi movie depicting the future; this is a Chore Coat created by envisioning the past. If a time machine is invented in the future, I’d like to wear this coat and travel back to the 1920s.
I look forward to seeing if I’d get found out as a time traveler.
Important Notes:
Both the front buttons and cuff buttons are of the removable "change button" type.
As they are less durable than standard buttons, we recommend removing them before washing the garment.
Should a button be damaged or lost, we do have stock available, but please note that replacements will be provided for a fee.
Excerpted from the TCB Jeans website.
