THE INTENTION

When UPRISERS LAB was invited into Netflix’s HQ for Sakamoto Days collaboration, we saw an opportunity to design something that transforms — much like its main character. Taro Sakamoto, a former hitman turned convenience store owner, who lives between two worlds. Inspired by Sakamoto-san, the concept of duality became the heart of our design.

Our challenge: create a garment that feels humble, ordinary.. but quietly powerful. Something that could switch modes — just like Sakamoto himself.

Can we design a product that tells the story of humble living — and hidden capability?

ROOTED IN TRADITION

In Japanese, the apron or maekake isn’t just utilitarian — it symbolizes work ethic, craftsmanship and tradition. It is the uniform of a tradesman and represents dedication to one’s work. At the same time, the language of tactical wear (pockets, straps, utility) brings in Sakamoto’s past life. We wove those two themes together — creating a hybrid silhouette that nods to the utility vest of a professional, while maintaining the form of a kitchen apron.

Subtle design cues include:

• Reinforced straps & loops inspired by tactical gear
  

• Fold-and-zip conversion from apron → tote = transformation
  
  

“You could easily miss it — but that’s the point. Just like Sakamoto, it’s low-key on the outside, sharp on the execution.” — UPRISERS

This project wasn’t about volume — it was about vision.

 

FROM LAB TO LIFE

The prototype was built in less than a month in the spring of 2024 at Netflix’s HQ in collaboration with our UPRISERS LAB. The piece was then produced under tight 2025 geopolitical constraints — from global tariff impact creating uncertain supply chains to compressed delivery timelines. 

Key design and production notes:

• Designed, prototyped, and finalized in under 30 days

• Designed with inspiration by Sakamoto Days storytelling 

“Even with the condensed timeline constraints, this piece proves we can deliver well-made products with quality designs. The potential here goes beyond a single character — it’s a story that can live in design.”
— UPRISERS 

This project wasn’t about volume — it was about vision. For fans, this is more than merch. It’s a wearable embodiment of the character they love.

CIRCULAR & CARING

While not a sustainability-focused drop in the traditional sense, the design itself plays with multi-functionality — reducing the need for excess by offering two products in one. Apron. Bag. Utility. Style.

“When someone sees this bag or apron and knows the story of Sakamoto Days we want them to look for the hidden backstory. We know that anime fans are PASSIONATE about the details and it was important to us that this piece represented that fandom.” — UPRISERS

DESIGNED FROM THE HEART UP

The Sakamoto Days apron is a symbol of transformation — for the character, and for what anime merchandise can become when approached with care and creativity. It’s proof that even under tight timelines, limited units, and high compliance pressure, good design still matters.

It’s not just what you see.

For Taro Sakamoto, it represents what you carry — and how that changes you.