The Journey of Porter by Yoshida & Co. – A Story of Heart, Soul, & Craft

When it comes to bags that seamlessly combine functionality, durability, and timeless design, few brands stand in the same league as Porter by Yoshida & Co. This iconic Japanese label, founded in 1935, has a history as rich as its meticulously crafted products. 

At thegoodlife., we’re proud to bring Porter to our community, celebrating a brand that embodies the philosophy of "heart and soul go into every stitch." For founder Kichizo Yoshida, his early experiences in crafting practical bags led to the belief that “a bag should first of all be a tool to carry goods”—a motto that continues to shape the brand’s ethos today.

The Origins: Humble Beginnings and Resilience

Yoshida & Co. traces its origins to a remarkable story of resilience and craftsmanship. In 1918, Kichizo Yoshida began his journey in bag-making as a 12-year-old apprentice in Tokyo. By 1935, he had founded Yoshida & Co., driven by a commitment to producing high-quality bags with meticulous attention to detail.

During World War II, Yoshida & Co.’s survival was tested under extreme conditions. As the war raged and Tokyo faced devastating air raids, Kichizo’s wife, Chika, safeguarded the company’s tools and materials by hiding them under a bridge in Kandasuda-cho. This act of foresight and determination ensured the company’s future.

A Turning Point: Gaining National Recognition

The post-war era marked a period of reinvention and success for Yoshida & Co. In 1953, the company launched the Elegant Bag, featuring an innovative adjustable zippered gusset that allowed users to modify its width. This design was both practical and stylish, cementing the brand’s reputation for innovation.

A defining moment came when Japan’s Empress Michiko was seen carrying a Yoshida bag during a televised event. This royal endorsement propelled the brand into the national spotlight, boosting its popularity across Japan.

The Launch of Porter: A New Chapter

In 1962, Yoshida & Co. launched Porter, its first private label. Named after the porters at luxury hotels known for their skill and care in handling luggage, the brand reflected the same values of reliability and attention to detail. Porter’s distinctive branding, with playful tags and packaging, quickly set it apart in the market.

Porter introduced its first iconic series, TANKER, in 1983, and it quickly became a game-changer. Drawing inspiration from the legendary MA-1 flight jacket, a staple of the U.S. Air Force, the TANKER bags adopted many of the jacket’s innovative and functional features. The MA-1 jacket, originally designed for pilots in the 1950s, was crafted with lightweight, water-resistant nylon to withstand high-altitude conditions. Its bright orange lining served a practical purpose—when reversed, it provided a highly visible signal in emergency situations.

Porter brilliantly translated these functional elements into their TANKER series. The bags were constructed using a three-layer nylon fabric, mirroring the MA-1’s durability and lightness. This unique fabric not only made the bags robust but also gave them a sleek, polished appearance. Inside, the vibrant orange lining echoed the MA-1’s signature look, creating a striking contrast with the bag’s external colours—typically sage green, black, or navy.

Beyond its aesthetics, the TANKER series exemplified functionality. With multiple compartments, adjustable straps, and innovative designs tailored for modern lifestyles, these bags became the go-to choice for professionals, travellers, and style enthusiasts alike. Their timeless appeal has made them a cornerstone of Porter’s lineup, remaining as relevant today as when they first debuted.

Crafting a Global Legacy

Following Kichizo’s passing in 1994, his sons took the reins of Yoshida & Co., honouring their father’s legacy while driving the brand into a new era. Staying true to its roots, the company continues to innovate while keeping every step of production in Japan. This commitment to local craftsmanship ensures that each bag reflects the same impeccable quality and attention to detail.

Porter’s product offering is as diverse as it is meticulously crafted, reflecting the brand’s ability to cater to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences. Within the main Porter collection, iconic series like SMOKY, FORCE, and NOIR showcase the brand’s versatility. Each line has its own unique personality, from the understated elegance of NOIR to the utilitarian appeal of FORCE and the casual yet durable charm of SMOKY.

Beyond its signature series, Porter has expanded its reach through sub-brands like Luggage Label, launched in 1983, which blends military-inspired ruggedness with refined sophistication, and Yoshida, established in 2004, focusing on premium leather goods that combine timeless elegance with exceptional craftsmanship for a mature audience.

Additionally, Porter has collaborated with globally recognised brands like adidas Originals, COMME des GARÇONS, and Pas Normal Studios. These partnerships bring fresh perspectives to Porter’s classic designs, making each collaboration a unique and highly sought-after collection that appeals to a variety of fashion enthusiasts.

Explore our curated selection of Porter by Yoshida & Co. pieces: