Continuing our journey into Nihombashi Mitsukoshi's recently launched SEKItoWA brand that rethinks just what luxury means in the present day, we find miyabi, the first of two lines that offer fresh perspectives on indulgence. As an aesthetic miyabi was born of the aristocratic court of Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, and predates the wabi and sabi that are first for many to encounter when they think of Japanese aesthetics. Embodying the sophisticated elegance of the era, it is perhaps best known through the junihitoe or "twelve-layered robe" the highly structured court dress that dates to the 10th century, a means of communication in itself, where in each of the twelve layers and their combinations the taste of the wearer and rank could be discerned. While traditionally this is an aesthetic associated with the upper echelons of society, SEKItoWA frees it from this historical context and places it in the present day, where free from the feudal class system of old, it is here for all to enjoy in daily life.
The modern conception of miyabi still communicates the taste of the owner, but with a subtlety and elegance fit for a society where such a display is unnecessary as it would have been to prove your standing in court, but rather a display of cultural sophistication; the desire for a well judged display of flowers that relays the season which adds a flourish of beauty to the day. Building on this idea SEKItoWA has worked closely with Hiroto Rakusho, a gold and silver leaf artist at the very top of his art entrusted with restoring Japan's national treasures to their former glory, on a series of items that adds his instantly understood flash of luxury to the everyday. While gold and silver can verge on the garish, in the restrained hands of Rakusho they embody miyabi, adding allure without courting attention.
Highlights of the miyabi line include a full range of items that can fit into your day to day, from comfortable cashmere, to sake cups, each items might already be part of your daily life, but SEKItoWA allows for it to be imbued with a miyabi elegance that marks you as a member, not bound to the old aristocratic court or modern garish excess, but of a new cultured class fit for the present day.
※ Please note that all items pictured are only available in limited quantities, and may be unavailable on your visit.
SEKItoWA Concept Shop
Location
Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Building 1F, SEKItoWA