I have designed, made and sold men’s “Ninja hoodies” in Vancouver for a decade. This is an archive of my sustainable hoodie designs and productions.
WAdE1 Clothing from 2009-2019. We also have produced series of screen printed or embroidered t-shirts.
Why did I start WAdE1 Clothing?
Back in 2009 when I came to Vancouver, I saw some luck of fashion in men’s department. I also wanted to showcase my husband’s wonderful art works. I was young, eager and made it happen with some encouragements from local independent boutiques.
I, the most classic introvert have made many friends through this fashion venture and I’m happy with what I have achieved.
There is a local restaurant owner that wears my ninja hoodie all the time, and tells me it’s his favorite hoodie. Several other people has told me the same over the years. My job is done right? What more can I ask for?
I’ve always made them locally in Vancouver. Sourced all the fabrics from local or at least Canadian supplier. To be honest, the business model wasn’t scalable and I hit the wall with keeping the business sustainable and profitable. If I made more, the production will be in China, and so what is the point…
Linen hoodie
This is my first cut and sew hoodie design.
Linen body with metal buttons.
Ninja Hoodie
Then it evolved to this Ninja hoodies that I made over and over for years.
Grey heather 80% cotton, 20% polyester mix. The dye lot of the body and rib has to be the same, so it was very hard to get enough materials for the runs. Also… the fabric alone cost more than ○&○ or other fast fashion hoodies.
First few years of the production came with cords that was dipped in rubber. I like it without the cord, but cyclists told me they like the cord.
There were bi-colour version or El Kartel Limited Edition with mesh pockets etc. also.
Below is one of the coolest fabric I found. It looks like denim from outside, but it is water resistant (proof?) and breathable. The fabric got discontinued by the supplier so these are the most rare pieces of all Ninja hoodies. Side zip. I wear it when I go skiing.
Most luxurious fabrics are the next two. Very thick and very hard to sew. The matching rib was very cool.
These fabrics came from Montreal. Not my favorite. I learned in the creative process that I like cotton, linen, silk, and wool for my personal wardrobe. You will barely see me wear synthetics unless rain gear or winter outerwear. But, I have met customers that prefer these sporty fabrics, so I’m glad I made them.
Over all, having a fashion line was a good life experience and I’m glad I did it. ALL ninja hoodies have sold out, and I’m proud of my sustainable production. The return on investment is around same as successful stock exchange, but I made new friends along the way in a completely new land. That is priceless.
Who knows, I might do it again…
I just found this first ever ninja hoodie production photo. The first edition came with neck cord and the tip is dipped in blue rubber. Matching the bottom patch.