About ten years ago when people were buying fast fashion, Kovalum founder Mark Johnson rediscovered an old love. It was an old anorak jacket that he wore in his university days. His memories of it were warm as he was reminded of the many compliments he had received on it over the years. The jacket originally belonged to his father, who wore it in the 60s. Looking at the jacket, Mark decided he would create a small run of the same style to sell. His goal would be to recreate more jackets made to last decades, organically championing a "slow fashion" business well ahead of its time.

The original, 55 year-old anorak jacket that inspired the creation of Kovalum.

For those unfamiliar with the term, "slow fashion" is the 180 degree flip from the excessive production, overcomplicated supply chains, and rapid consumption associated with the fast fashion business model.

Mark started producing the jackets locally in Toronto, which allowed him to more easily manage quality control, using fabrics he sourced from local fabric shops. It took years to master the process of sourcing the right material and production. After a few years of development, Kovalum was ultimately born.

In the early days, Kovalum saw sales among friends and family, and was available in a few local stores that saw the potential of the line.

Over the last decade, Kovalum has grown substantially, both in terms of product line and retail presence. Today, Mark and his team have created a wide array of beautiful shirts, jackets, vests, t-shirts, and sweatshirts. This comprehensive line offers much of the casualwear the modern man needs to fill his closet.

The Bruce Japanese Indigo Shirt

The Pace Blue and White Stripe Shirt.

Despite its growth, unlike many companies that move production overseas, Kovalum continues to be produced in Toronto, Canada as it helps them to ensure a high level of quality is maintained, while supporting the local economy.

The Liberty Orange Floral Shirt.

Each season's collection follows the company's founding principles, which celebrates confidence, quality, and masculine fashion. Kovalum avoids producing clothing that leans too much into the latest trends and aims for a more timeless sense of style. The goal is to produce a line that can be worn for years and still look great, making it easy to build a wardrobe out of Kovalum's line.

The Lachlin Blue and White Floral Shirt.

Kovalum has seen a steady growth in the menswear scene and Gotengo is excited to be partnering with them to share the line with our customers. We love the quality of their products and know that Kovalum is a great match for guys hoping to discover a new brand and wear something different than their buddies.

The Lyle Cotton and Linen Dobby Shirt.

Their spring/summer collection this year consists of fun and mostly short sleeve shirts that are unique and easy to style. From Japanese milled heavier weight cottons to very lightweight seersucker shirts, the line has something for everyone. The fits are also consistent within the brand so someone who loves the way the medium in the short sleeve fits will be thrilled to know that the medium in the long sleeve oxford in the fall fits the same way. It's rare that fashion brands achieve sizing consistency and for guys like us, there is nothing more sacred than that consistency. The fits are slim and the length is made for never having to tuck in.

The Swimmers Print Shirt.

So try it out for yourself and experience slow fashion with Kovalum.