When we tell people we work in fashion they often assume that we live glamorous, exciting lives. Sure this is a somewhat skewed perception, but every now and then they would be right. Most recently, a group of Echoans took time out from day-to-day operations in Manhattan to experience one of our most vibrant markets, Tokyo, Japan.
If you were to read anything about Tokyo before you visit, you’ll likely hear it described as the definition of foreign – another world. We didn’t find that to be fully accurate. Tokyo is an exciting city with many diverse neighborhoods each with a unique feel, similar to New York or London. One striking feature was the contrast between new and old; the vibrant neon modernity versus the rich cultural architecture of centuries past. A short walk through the city’s center provides incredibly modern buildings along side ancient temples. The photo below is of the acclaimed and almost futuristic Prada building in Aoyama, only a few minutes walk from an urban temple tucked in among retail shops.
Architecture isn’t the only contrast evident in Tokyo. The push and pull between modern and traditional is evident in cuisine, culture, and social interaction. McDonald’s stands only a few feet from a traditional soba noodle house while a traditional kimono shop could be only steps from modern Japanese designers like Tsumori Chisato and Yohji Yamamoto, not to mention American standbys like The Gap or Ralph Lauren.
The most exciting thing about our trip to Japan? Visiting the specialty stores that carry Echo products. Beams, héliopôle, and Free’s Shop are just a few places you can find Echo products in Japan.
What’s hot in Japan? Here are just a few of the Echo styles that are flying off the shelves at Beams: our medallion print butterfly dress, terry handheld tote, strapless knit pantsuit, and the smocked spectator dress.
For a list of countries where you can find Echo products, check out the “international” link at the bottom of the Echo Design website.
PS – Concerned about what to wear on the 13 hour trip from New York to Tokyo? Start with a wrap that will keep you warm (or cool) on the plane and on the street. I didn’t make it past ticketing before I started fielding compliments about my Echo rainbow stripe wrap.