Through my study of the Japanese tea ceremony, I became aware of the allure of kimono. Unlike Western clothing, kimono has a unique appeal in that it beautifully suits people of all body types. While Western fashion often becomes more subdued in color as we age, kimono allows us to wear vibrant and bold patterns regardless of our age. Moreover, Western fashion typically favors monochromatic color schemes, kimono effortlessly pairs contrasting colors, offering a wide range of combinations to enjoy.
However, the number of people wearing kimono has declined, and in the secondhand market, kimono are often sold at prices far below their true value, indicating that their charm is not fully recognized by the public. Yet, there is a long history of renowned designers being inspired by kimono, and it is clear that there is significant international interest, especially among tourists visiting Japan.
To preserve the beauty and culture of kimono for future generations, I decided to create headbands using kimono fabric. At KARAKU by me, our headbands are not mass-produced; they are meticulously handcrafted by artisans, one by one. The way the patterns on the kimono fabric are cut and arranged can significantly affect the final look of the product. We carefully adjust the placement of the fabric to maximize its appeal.
When adding embellishments, we ensure that they do not overshadow the beauty of the kimono fabric. In this way, we are committed to making each headband with great care and attention to detail, honoring the beauty of the kimono fabric.
We have received many wonderful comments from overseas customers, particularly regarding the hand-sewn kimono headbands. They have been moved by the craftsmanship and have expressed amazement at how the quality matches the photos they saw online. Their feedback is a great source of motivation for me.
KARAKU by me’s accessories are designed to bring the traditional beauty of kimono into modern everyday life, making it easy for anyone to enjoy stylish fashion. We hope our accessories bring a little excitement and a special feeling to your daily routine.