ONE-OF-A-KIND HANDBAGS CREATED FROM UPCYCLED KIMONO AND OBI
As an admirer and advocate of Japanese esthetics, Jasmine Takizawa, founder of Spice Bebé-Ya, had given away numerous kimono (the traditional Japanese garment) to her Western friends as gifts over the years. It didn’t take her long to realize that, for Westerners, dressing in kimono is not a simple task. The process involves wrapping oneself in layers of silk and other fabrics — with each fold, tie and tuck of the process unique and said to hold great significance. In this day and age, it’s difficult for even most Japanese to dress themselves in kimono. Takizawa made it her mission to preserve the artistry of the Japanese kimono and obi (a large sash used to wrap around the waist over the kimono) in a new form, one which could be effortlessly attired in the West.
Westerners were not her only target, however. The modern kimono industry in Japan has slowly declined since its sales peaked in 1975. As a way to prevent the gradual disappearance of the kimono, Takizawa felt it was crucial to modernize the style for everyday use.
Using vintage materials, Takizawa came up with a solution that had her upcycle vintage kimono and obi into stylish modern bags. “I wanted to make something that looks good and makes you feel good when you hold it. A bag that lifts your mood, like when wearing a kimono.”
Each bag made at Spice Bebé-Ya is artistic, made with traditionally crafted kimono and obi, and unique with only one in the world of each. In September 2023, Spice Bebé-Ya will show in collaboration with the Flying solo team and other independent brands in New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2023.
PURCHASES WILL BE DISCOUNTED 20% TO 40% FROM THE ONLINE SHOP IF DELIVERED TO A LOCAL ADDRESS OR HOTEL. CONTACT VIA THE ONLINE SHOP OR OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT. spicebebe-ya.tokyo