Fashion brand AKIKOAOKI has collaborated with Tokyo’s Sumida Ward, one of Japan’s top three leather production regions, to create a distinctive collection of leather bags. Historically, the Sumida and Taito wards, located along the Sumida River, have been at the heart of Japan’s leather industry, where generations of artisans have honed their craft. During Japan’s post-war economic boom, the leather trade flourished alongside synthetic leather production, leading to the growth of fine craftsmanship in men's and women's shoes and apparel.Leather, as a byproduct of the meat industry, is a sustainable material that repurposes animal hides that would otherwise go to waste. This makes leather production a model of responsible resource utilization and one of Tokyo’s most forward-thinking industries.
This project is a collaboration with Tsutsui Co., Ltd., a company that began its journey in Japan’s leather industry in 1939, initially focusing on small leather goods in Taito Ward (now Sumida Ward) before transitioning into bag production. From the perspective of a collection brand, we have redefined the relationship between modernity and society through innovative bag designs, meticulously crafted with the knowledge and skills of expert artisans.
This project is a collaboration with Tsutsui Co., Ltd., a company that began its journey in Japan’s leather industry in 1939, initially focusing on small leather goods in Taito Ward (now Sumida Ward) before transitioning into bag production. From the perspective of a collection brand, we have redefined the relationship between modernity and society through innovative bag designs, meticulously crafted with the knowledge and skills of expert artisans.
Philosophy & Vision
Fashion as a Medium for Engaging with Society and the Era
At AKIKOAOKI, the act of dressing is seen as a cultural tool for expressing one’s identity and engaging with society and history. Rooted in the brand’s unique values and vision, each design reflects an evolving perspective on contemporary life, offering a glimpse into the next generation of fashion.
Striving for a universal approach that transcends borders and cultures, AKIKOAOKI actively expands its presence both in Japan and abroad. Since 2023, the brand has maintained a showroom within Paris Fashion Week, further establishing itself as a global collection brand.
Striving for a universal approach that transcends borders and cultures, AKIKOAOKI actively expands its presence both in Japan and abroad. Since 2023, the brand has maintained a showroom within Paris Fashion Week, further establishing itself as a global collection brand.
Creator's Commitment
Breaking Conventions with a Female Perspective and a Sustainable Future
Drawing inspiration from the graceful fluidity of the female body, AKIKOAOKI excels at combining structured silhouettes with their opposite—strong, deconstructivist forms and concepts. This coexistence of contrasts is a hallmark of the brand, characterized by unique and bold cutting techniques.
Beyond aesthetics, AKIKOAOKI incorporates a deeper awareness of how human actions impact the environment and how all living beings can coexist sustainably on Earth. This philosophy is woven into every aspect of the brand’s creations. This project reflects the harmony between these dual principles, resulting in a thoughtfully designed leather bag that embodies both artistry and sustainability.
Beyond aesthetics, AKIKOAOKI incorporates a deeper awareness of how human actions impact the environment and how all living beings can coexist sustainably on Earth. This philosophy is woven into every aspect of the brand’s creations. This project reflects the harmony between these dual principles, resulting in a thoughtfully designed leather bag that embodies both artistry and sustainability.