The BUCO L/S TEE / CHIEF’S is made from 8oz cotton jersey and sewn entirely with cotton thread. The graphics across the chest, back and sleeves are inspired by mid-century American hot rod culture, where flame motifs became closely tied to ideas of speed, raw engine power and rebellion. These prints are hand applied in rubber ink at our Kobe headquarters using traditional manual techniques, achieving the authentic texture and feel of vintage t-shirts.

In post-war Southern California, custom painters such as Kenneth Howard and Ed Roth helped formalize the striking hot rod look. Howard refined sharp, symmetrical flame layouts rooted in traditional sign painting and pinstriping, while Roth pushed exaggerated graphics into mainstream car culture through show rods and magazine features. By the 1950s, layered colour fades, fine outline striping and stretched flame tips had become hallmarks of the style. The motif soon moved from hot rods to motorcycles, particularly within early chopper builds, where this vibrant paintwork served as a bold statement of identity.

100% Cotton Fabric, 8 oz.

Cotton Sewing Thread Construction

Hand Applied Rubber Print on Front, Back, and Sleeves

Made in Japan