SASSAFRAS
Brand Story
Steve Gossard / スティーブ・ゴサード
Born in 1948 in Fremont, California, Steve Gossard embarked on a unique journey that reflects his erudite spirit. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, he initially pursued a career as a programmer involved in OS development at a computer company. However, at the age of 40, he made the bold decision to drop out and embrace a different path.
For several years, Gossard immersed himself in gardening at his home in Fremont, indulging in his passion for rock music. His gardening style, characterized by embracing nature as it is, without removing weeds and incorporating its inherent beauty, garnered acclaim through word-of-mouth. This recognition led him to embark on the path of a professional gardener. Simultaneously, he opened his beloved gardening shop, "SASSAFRAS," adjacent to his home, where his favorite rock music always fills the air.
The name "SASSAFRAS" derives from the variety of a majestic tree that had been present in his backyard even before his birth. Furthermore, it is a nod to his fondness for root beer made from sassafras, as he is an avid consumer of this beverage.
Unlike conventional gardening shops, "SASSAFRAS" is not bound by conventional frameworks. It showcases a diverse range of gardening gear and merchandise selected from a unique perspective, incorporating Gossard's gardening style that embraces nature as it is. However, the highlight of this shop, known as "SASSAFRAS" or simply "SF," is the original apparel that bears the same name. Gossard describes his original gardening wear, "SF," as follows: "Among all the garments I have encountered in my life, those that are comfortable to wear, allow ease of movement, and possess durability are worthy of being called gardening wear." True to his words, the original gardening wear, "SF," incorporates functional elements from various practical clothing items he has cherished throughout his past and present, including workwear, outdoor apparel, military wear, and traditional clothing. It presents an entirely new concept in gardening attire.
Furthermore, Gossard defines his relaxed style of wearing gardening wear, where the clothing is dropped on the shoulders or waist, as "Alternative Fit." He strongly asserts, "To fully utilize the tool pockets of 'SF,' Alternative Fit is the only way." According to Gossard, "SF" is an essential tool for gardening and an indispensable part of daily life.
Please note that this story is a work of fiction created to serve as the brand's imaginative source. The names of individuals and organizations mentioned are entirely fictional.