To tell you the truth – I was attracted to this London clothing line because of their name. The term “death before dishonour” can be often heard here and there and you mustadmit it sounds fatalistic. Just like Samurai. The “harakiri” thing these guys had – when they would kill themselves if they felt they’ve betrayed their family or country – is just one of the motives for Death Before Dishonour Clothing designs. Their latest offer was inspired by Buddhism, which is also very important for the Samurai philosophy.
Now, before you conclude something else, I must tell you guys behind Death Before Dishonour are driven by the irony of “blood and guts” approach, “throwing it straight back at anyone foolish enough to embrace thuggery”. Mr. Chris Manning, the designer, says: “this is a play on Sleeping Samurais lose their eyes. The eye of wakefulness is a Samurais greatest protection”.
“The eye shining above the bones signifies that the true state of wakefulness (enlightenment) is beyond the mortal structure of man… i.e. bones & sinew”, adds Manning. By the way – the word “kanji” in Japanese writing says “samurai”, and the title of the design is “Eyeball”. Browsing DBD website, I particulary liked this “Sleeping Samurai” design.
The design is inspired by the classic works of Miyamoto Musashi, one of the greatest Samurai warriors of all times, famed for his duels and distinctive style. He also wrote “The Book Of Five Rings” – a book on strategy, tactics, and philosophy that is still studied today. As you can see, the tee is also available in women style and is screen printed, containing part of the Samurai code inside the garment. Apart from tees, DBD Clothing offers swatshirts, too, and here’s the one I really liked.
This one features another famous Japanese warrior – Ninja! Quicker than shadow and more quiet than the summer wind, Ninja Skeleton creeps out of the darkness and is about to assassinate you! I really liked the graphic novel Noir style inspired design with dynamic and highlighted shadowing. This sweat is of heavyweight high quality combed cotton. Just like this DBD Clothing logo hoodie, which is among their sale items now.
Apart from the very nice designs and the broadness of their apparel, I’ll make one annotation to DBD Clothing; they should perhaps redesign their website. I don’t wanna say it’s not easy to navigate, but this version makes a slight unjustice to such fine looking items.
And so, all of you tee Samurais, before you go and sacrifice your life for some higher purpose, please make sure to check Death Before Dishonour online shop. And please off yourself after your order arrives.
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