Style & Design

After many stores shut their doors last month, there’s now a pop culture-tinged positivity imbuing Japan’s fashion scene.

With Earth Day coming up next month, “On: Design” looks into a few initiatives that address Japan’s plastic waste problem.

Designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the Finnish design brand’s recently opened flagship store in Omotesando allows customers to immerse themselves in the Nordic way of life.

Utility wear brand Workman is enjoys rise in sales despite a downturn in the fashion industry. Meanwhile, Valentino and Wego sign on virtual celebrities to appeal to specific demographics.

As a way to promote manufacturing industries in Aichi Prefecture, Aichi Design Vision paired companies with up-and-coming designers to create brand new homeware products.

Boutique shops and small brands face closure, while beauty influencer Akiico steps up to promote petite sizes.

“On Design” looks at a few recent product releases that highlight Pantone’s newest color(s) of the year.

As department stores try to make up for a dismal 2020, recently released capsule collections turn to feel-good, nostalgic escapism.

In 1957, Cardin became the first European designer to forge business ties with Japan, and within two years he was selling his fashions there.

“On Design” looks to 2021, the Year of the Ox (or cow, depending on who you ask), with a few design collaborations featuring the auspicious bovine.

The former textile director of Miyake Design Studio is still pushing the boundaries of natural fabric, craftsmanship and sustainability.