Charmed, I'm sure
Silver-accessories brand Chrome Hearts launched its Aoyama shop nine years ago, but has recently reopened its doors after a renewal that's given it a fresh charm — one that's much more than just something dangly for your bracelet.
Chrome Hearts' founder is L.A.-based Richard Stark (pictured), a fashion entrepreneur who fully embraces the easy-going So-Cal attitude that he injects into his label. For the new shop, Stark was adamant about creating a relaxed, make-yourself-comfy atmosphere, so he put home at the heart of Chrome: a fully functional living space including bedroom, living area, kitchen and bathroom bedecked in Chrome Hearts furniture sits on the top floor. Outside of the building itself is a half-basketball court and, next to it, an open-brick BBQ pit, showing how seriously laid-back Stark is.
The brand's luxurious yet gritty accessories, including silver, leatherwear and eyewear, have propelled it to popularity since 1988, with fans ranging from Chanel's Karl Lagerfeld (who wears more than one Chrome Hearts ring on the same finger) to Japanese super-rockers L'Arc~en~Ciel. For the reopening of the shop, famous friends such as Steve Jones from the Sex Pistols graced Stark's fashion "family" with intimate performances. With a cozy gallery on the basement floor, any shopper can truly make themselves at home before leaving with some wicked Chrome.