An incredibly rare archival promotional t-shirt from the Japanese publication My Anime (マイアニメ), published by Akita Shoten. This graphic is a direct reproduction of the September 1983 issue cover, featuring the legendary "Lovely Angels"—Kei and Yuri—better known as the Dirty Pair. Created by Haruka Takachiho, Dirty Pair is a cornerstone of 80s sci-fi anime and a pioneer of the "City Pop" aesthetic. Promotional apparel from 1980s Japanese hobbyist magazines is virtually non-existent in the Western market, as these were typically limited-run rewards for the domestic Japanese readership.
The Dirty Pair franchise helped define the "action girl" trope and remains one of the most culturally significant properties of the 1980s. This shirt is a fascinating early crossover artifact, printed on a vintage Hanes 100% Cotton red-bar tag with "Made in U.S.A." construction. This represents a niche moment in the mid-80s when Japanese publishers utilized American manufacturing for high-end promotional goods. Finding a physical garment tied to a specific 1983 magazine issue is a rare opportunity for serious anime historians and vintage collectors.
The shirt is in overall good vintage condition with one notable character flaw: the graphic exhibits significant fading and peeling, particularly on the central portraits of Kei and Yuri. This "thrashed" look provides a heavy, authentic patina that is highly sought after by collectors of 40-year-old archive pieces. Aside from the graphic wear, the garment is structurally sound with no significant holes or tears. The white cotton fabric has developed minor and subtle yellowing throughout, consistent with its age.
Tag Size: Large
Pit to Pit: 21.5 inches
Length: 26.5 inches
An incredibly rare archival promotional t-shirt from the Japanese publication My Anime (マイアニメ), published by Akita Shoten. This graphic is a direct reproduction of the September 1983 issue cover, featuring the legendary "Lovely Angels"—Kei and Yuri—better known as the Dirty Pair. Created by Haruka Takachiho, Dirty Pair is a cornerstone of 80s sci-fi anime and a pioneer of the "City Pop" aesthetic. Promotional apparel from 1980s Japanese hobbyist magazines is virtually non-existent in the Western market, as these were typically limited-run rewards for the domestic Japanese readership.
The Dirty Pair franchise helped define the "action girl" trope and remains one of the most culturally significant properties of the 1980s. This shirt is a fascinating early crossover artifact, printed on a vintage Hanes 100% Cotton red-bar tag with "Made in U.S.A." construction. This represents a niche moment in the mid-80s when Japanese publishers utilized American manufacturing for high-end promotional goods. Finding a physical garment tied to a specific 1983 magazine issue is a rare opportunity for serious anime historians and vintage collectors.
The shirt is in overall good vintage condition with one notable character flaw: the graphic exhibits significant fading and peeling, particularly on the central portraits of Kei and Yuri. This "thrashed" look provides a heavy, authentic patina that is highly sought after by collectors of 40-year-old archive pieces. Aside from the graphic wear, the garment is structurally sound with no significant holes or tears. The white cotton fabric has developed minor and subtle yellowing throughout, consistent with its age.
Tag Size: Large
Pit to Pit: 21.5 inches
Length: 26.5 inches
