One of our iconic prints that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese motifs with modern fashion, allow us to introduce you to the story and meaning behind the Nadeshiko print.
The name ‘Nadeshiko’ itself carries a rich tapestry of Japanese tradition and culture. Rooted in the name ‘Yamato nadeshiko,’ it is known as the carnation ‘Fringed Pink’ in English. This delicate frilled pink carnation serves as an embodiment of qualities such as poise, gentleness, grace, humility, patience, virtuousness, respect, and honesty; all virtues that embody the epitome of pure, feminine beauty in Japan.
In our Nadeshiko print, we’ve meticulously selected 22 enchanting colors that pay homage to the vibrant heritage of the Ryukyu Islands. With great precision and a touch of traditional flair, this print weaves a narrative of exquisite beauty. The soft and delicate hues bring out your most graceful and refined side, just like the Nadeshiko flower itself. See our full line-up of Nadeshiko dresses here.
About Ryukyu Bingata
To truly appreciate the Nadeshiko print, it’s essential to delve into the art of Ryukyu Bingata – a centuries-old dyeing technique and an intangible cultural asset of Okinawa. This art form represents not only the archipelago’s diplomatic history but also its subtropical climate, with vivid colors adorning natural fabrics. Ryukyu Bingata was a privilege of the royal family and the warrior class, and it offers two distinctive patterns – the brightly dyed bingata and the indigo-dyed aigata. For an equally striking print, do explore our Indigo Bingata series, perfect for making a lasting impression at work, dinner, or any special function.
Indigo Bingata Venus Dress
Indigo Bingata Gather Dress
Indigo Bingata Daily Dress
Indigo Bingata Daily Dress
The Nadeshiko Ryukyu Bingata series is a beautiful embodiment of tradition, culture, and grace, ideal for any special occasion. What’s more, our kay me dresses are not only rich in meaning but also highly practical. They are washable, stretchy, wrinkle-resistant, and proudly made in Japan for lasting wear in your wardrobe. To discover the Nadeshiko series and more of our iconic prints, please visit our “Queen of kay me” page. Here, you’ll find the essence of Japan’s timeless beauty wrapped in modern elegance.
As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to change, the transition from the warmth of summer to the cool embrace of autumn brings with it a unique set of fashion challenges. It’s a time when we want to savor the last rays of summer while also preparing for the crisper days ahead. Fortunately, we at kay me has the perfect answer to this seasonal shift: stretch chiffon.
The kay me Difference
At kay me, we understand the needs of modern women. Our clothing is not only stylish but also durable, designed to last for up to 10 years. We believe in providing clothing that empowers women by offering practicality without compromising on elegance.
Our stretch chiffon fabric is a testament to this commitment. Lightweight, comfortable, and incredibly versatile, it’s the ideal choice for transitioning seamlessly from summer to fall. Here’s why:
1. Comfortable in All Climates
Whether you’re traveling or simply going about your daily routine, comfort is key. Our stretch chiffon fabric is not only lightweight but also washable and wrinkle-resistant, making it easy to wear, wash, and dry. This trifecta of features is a total game-changer, especially for those who are always on the move. Even as the weather fluctuates, this fabric keeps you comfortable and looking your best.
Add a knit cardigan for a cozy layer as it cools down at night.
2. Versatile for Any Occasion
One of the challenges of transitioning seasons is adapting to changing temperatures throughout the day. kay me’s stretch chiffon has a woven structure that provides an extra layer of insulation against chilly winds, making it great for those unexpected cold snaps. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon or stepping out into a cool evening, you’ll stay comfortable and stylish.
Pair it with a suit jacket for an elegant business look for meetings or throw on a cardigan for a cozy and casual day out.
3. Quality That Lasts
At kay me, we take pride in our commitment to quality. Our chiffon fabric is dyed in Kyoto, a city renowned for its craftsmanship and vibrant colors. The precision and attention to detail in the dyeing process ensure that the colors remain as vibrant as the day you purchased the garment. Each piece is then meticulously sewn in our atelier in Tokyo, promising long-lasting quality that you can count on.
Stretchy, vibrant and machine washable for comfort, easy and elegance
4. Day-Long Comfort
We know that your day is filled with various activities, from lunch meetings to evening gatherings. That’s why we’ve designed our stretch chiffon with stretchy threads to ensure comfort throughout the day. You’ll feel just as great at dinner as you did at breakfast, with no compromise on style.
Embrace the Season in Style
As you transition from the heat of summer to the crispness of autumn, our stretch chiffon pieces will be your trusted companion. With its comfortable and breathable fabric, impeccable quality, and versatile style, you’ll effortlessly move through the changing seasons while looking and feeling your best.
Discover the elegance of kay me’s stretch chiffon and embrace the beauty of autumn with confidence and style. Experience the comfort, quality, and craftsmanship that make kay me a wardrobe choice that empowers women.
Whether you’re aiming to make a statement at a conference, raise a glass for a toast, or simply enjoy a casual lunch with friends, royal blue holds an effortless charm that exudes confidence and beauty in any setting. It’s bold but never flashy, making it the perfect choice for those who want to stand out with subtlety. And in a stretchy and flattering design, you know it’s a hassle-free choice that ensures a seamless morning routine, style and comfortable wear throughout the day.
The ease with which it allows you to look and feel good is precisely why we would make it our everyday choice. It brings out the qualities we aspire to embody: confidence, comfort, and readiness to conquer whatever challenges come our way.
At the heart of our brand, we are driven by a profound dedication to the “Made in Japan” ethos, championing local businesses and skilled craftspeople who are essential in shaping a brighter future. In an industry where apparel production in Japan has dwindled to a mere 2%, with many brands seeking cheaper labor overseas, we stand firm in our commitment to supporting artisans with fair wages and reducing our carbon footprint by staying local.
Today, we are thrilled to give you an exclusive glimpse into the intricate techniques our talented Tokyo artisans employ to create the beautiful finish on our latest collection of Smart Stretch pieces.
Precision is key to achieving the sharp lines and precise shape of the Bolero Jacket.
From the very beginning, attention to detail is paramount as each piece is cut with utmost care, leaving no margin for even the slightest deviation of 1mm. This precise craftsmanship sets the foundation for the impeccable finish we pride ourselves on. To further enhance the jacket’s sharp lines and defined shape, it undergoes a meticulous ironing process using its custom cardboard pattern. This technique ensures crisp seams that create the refined lines and silhouette that exude polish and fine quality.
Seam stretch plays a vital role in ensuring the exceptional comfort of all our garments, including the Shell Docking Dress. The secret to its remarkable flexibility lies not only in the choice of stretchy materials but also in the careful execution of sewing techniques. Our skilled artisans face the unique challenge of sewing elastic thread seamlessly with the stretchy fabric. Maintaining the perfect tension is crucial: too tight, and the material may pucker, while too loose, it jeopardizes the garment’s structural integrity.
Striking the delicate balance allows us to achieve a flawless combination of comfort and durability, ensuring that our garments move effortlessly with you while retaining their impeccable style.
While it may take more time than usual, the Japanese commitment to perfection ensures that the end result is a seamless and stunning product built to last. With over 12 years of collaboration refining the techniques, each seam is flawlessly executed, sitting smoothly and flat on the body without any puckering or loose threads. This dedication to craftsmanship guarantees that every garment is a symbol of enduring quality, designed to be cherished in the wardrobe for years to come.
What is Smart Stretch?
Smart Stretch is our trusty 2-way stretch suit material, designed to provide busy professionals with ultimate comfort and convenience all-year round. With a variety of timeless designs that effortlessly mix and match, mornings become a breeze without the rush or need for ironing.
Discover more of the Smart Stretch collection with the latest summer arrivals here, with free shipping worldwide.
Welcome to Ginza, Tokyo’s prestigious shopping district that beckons luxury enthusiasts and discerning travelers from around the world. With its immaculate streets and glamorous storefronts, Ginza stands as a captivating paradise where traditional Japanese craftsmanship seamlessly intertwines with contemporary elegance.
In Ginza, luxury tourists are spoiled for choice with a diverse array of high-end fashion boutiques, exquisite jewelry emporiums, captivating art galleries, and opulent department stores. But what truly sets Ginza apart is its dedication to providing a wide range of luxurious souvenirs. Indulge in the delicate flavors of meticulously crafted wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets, or savor the indulgent pleasures of European pastries prepared by renowned patisseries. Join us as we unveil the top 5 luxurious souvenirs and souvenir shops in Ginza, where East meets West, tradition meets innovation, and exclusivity meets charm. Discover extraordinary treasures that reflect the essence of Japanese culture and bring home a piece of Ginza’s timeless allure.
Founded in 1907 where its main store still stands today, Seigetsudo Honten is a revered Japanese confectionery with a rich history spanning over a century in the heart of Ginza. Steeped in tradition, this long-established establishment has captivated locals and tourists alike with its exquisite creations.
Seigetsudo Honten takes immense pride in their prized delicacy, the revered “Otoshibumi,” which beautifully captures the essence of unspoken love; a heartfelt love letter crumpled into a small ball. This exquisite Japanese confectionery unfolds with a delicate shell of red bean paste embracing a luscious core of yolk bean paste, harmoniously steamed to perfection. The result is a sublime fusion of soft bun-like texture and crumbly cookie-like consistency that effortlessly melts in your mouth, while the addition of wasanbon sugar elevates its refined sweetness and imparts a unique aroma.
Indulge in the captivating balance of flavors found in this remarkable treat, either as a personal indulgence or a thoughtful gift, available in sets ranging from 4 for 821 yen, 8 for 1664 yen, up to 20 for 4320 yen, all inclusive of tax.
Seigetsudo Main Store
Location:7 Chome-16-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061 Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am-7pm Closed Sun & Public Holidays Website: Seigetsudo Honten
Nestled along the bustling main street of Ginza, Minamoto Kitchoan stands as a haven for confectionery enthusiasts, dedicated to the art of creating exquisite Japanese sweets using the finest seasonal fruits. Each delicacy is thoughtfully crafted, paying meticulous attention to shape, contours, and the alluring aroma that captivates the senses. Their diverse range of delightful Japanese confectionery are perfect for both indulging your eyes and tastebuds in or presenting as a cherished gift to friends overseas. As you step inside, the inviting displays adorned with traditional décor create an immersive experience, allowing you to bask in the elegance of these high-end treats. Guests may also venture upstairs to the salon café, where you can indulge in a delightful array of desserts made with seasonal fruit, adding another layer of culinary delight to your journey.
Among their esteemed collection of wagashi, Minamoto Kitchoan presents a standout creation known as ‘Riku no Hoju’ or the “Jewel of the Land.” Crafted using muscat of Alexandria grapes exclusively cultivated from their own farm in Okayama, this wagashi showcases the essence of this unique fruit. Wrapped within a delicate layer of soft mochi and lightly dusted with sugar, each bite offers a delightful combination of sweetness and a gentle tartness. Prepare for a burst of refreshing flavors as you savor this exquisite treat, available from early May to mid-September. Even if you miss the opportunity to indulge in this particular delight, fear not, for Minamoto Kitchoan’s ever-changing seasonal lineup guarantees a continuous array of delightful and tantalizing options to satisfy your cravings.
Minamoto Kitchoan
Location:Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 6 Chome−9−8 THE HOUSE 1F Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am-8:00pm Sat-Sun 10:00am-7:00pm Website: https://www.kitchoan.co.jp/en/
Nestled within Ginza’s 8-chome district lies a venerable establishment that has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1909 with their specialty, karinto—a sweet deep-fried snack. Tachibana Karinto proudly stands as one of the three most renowned karinto shops in Tokyo. Its allure lies not only in the expert craftsmanship that goes into its creation but also in the distinct visual appeal of the delicacy. Each piece of karinto is meticulously coated with multiple layers of white sugar, imparting a lustrous and glossy finish that transforms it into a true work of art.
However, Tachibana’s karinto is not solely about aesthetics; its taste matches the elegance of its appearance. When you take a bite, you’ll be greeted with a delightful crispness and lightness, creating a textural experience that perfectly complements the flavors. What makes Tachibana’s karinto even more exceptional is its longevity. The flavors remain intact over time, thanks to the absence of additives, ensuring that you can savor every piece with peace of mind. With two enticing options to choose from, the ‘Koro’ offers a thicker and chewier texture that brings forth the original flavor of the dough, while the ‘Saeda’ boasts a thinner profile soaked with sugar, delivering a delightful combination of lightness and crispiness. To complete the experience, Tachibana Karinto are presented in simple packaging with their traditional touches, making it an ideal choice for those in search of formal and traditional Japanese sweets to give to friends, family or business partners.
Tachibana
Location: 8 Chome-7-19 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00am-7:00pm Sat 11:00am-5:00pm Sun Closed
Amidst the bustling streets of central Ginza, a hidden gem awaits those seeking a unique and luxurious dessert experience. Enter GENDY, a destination that has remained relatively unknown to many. Since its establishment in 2019, this premium caramel boutique has been dedicated to crafting exceptional caramel treats with a touch of sophistication, specifically tailored for gentlemen with discerning palates. While their original Aoyama store entices patrons with their delectable caramel bars, it is their Ginza location that unveils an indulgent masterpiece: the rich and luxurious Brandy Cake, a confectionery that exudes class, finesse, and above all, exceptional taste.
GENDY’s “Premium Caramel Brandy Cake” is meticulously handcrafted using carefully selected ingredients and production methods, adhering to the concept of creating a first-class product befitting a gentleman’s refined sensibilities. The dough is baked at a low temperature, resulting in a fine texture that serves as the perfect vessel for the infusion of brandy. With each bite, the harmonious union of caramel and brandy presents a delightful combination of sweetness with a lingering hint of bitterness. The brandy itself is a unique blend, carefully crafted by combining Remy Martin’s cognac and Ducastan’s Armagnac, lending the cake a depth of flavor and an aromatic allure. Priced at 8,800 yen, inclusive of tax, this is unquestionably a first-class indulgence that is sure to captivate the taste buds of both men and women alike, creating a delightful symphony of pleasure when savored alongside a cup of coffee.
To secure a slice of the extraordinary Brandy Cake, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance over the phone or visit the store to sample this remarkable creation firsthand. The attentive staff at GENDY will ensure a memorable experience as they guide you through the flavors and assist in selecting the perfect treat to suit your preferences.
GENDY Ginza
Location: 1 Chome-4-4 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061 Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 1:00pm-7:00pm Website: GENDY
Since its establishment in Ginza, Tokyo in 1902, Shiseido Parlour has been dedicated to delivering confectionery of the utmost high quality, authenticity and presentation, garnering the adoration of countless individuals. The main store of Shiseido Parlour Ginza, located on the first floor of the Tokyo Ginza Shiseido Building, boasts an open and spacious atmosphere with its high ceilings and captivating showcase, featuring a wide array of timeless favorites.
Shiseido Parlour’s delightful selection includes their renowned “Cheesecake,” which has captivated patrons since its introduction in 1978. These cheesecakes are meticulously crafted using carefully selected ingredients such as premium Hokkaido flour and Danish cream cheese. Encased in a delicate biscuit crust, the luscious cream cheese filling offers a heavenly experience with each bite. As the crust crumbles, the rich cheese melts effortlessly in your mouth, leaving a truly indulgent sensation. Available in convenient bite-sized portions and packaged beautifully, these cheesecakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them an ideal choice for gifting and savoring.
Shiseido Parlour presents a delightful selection of confectionery that exemplifies the unique craftsmanship of a brand deeply rooted in the art of “beauty” in Ginza. In addition to their beloved signature offerings, be sure to explore their enticing seasonal treats, available for a limited time only. If you find yourself contemplating the perfect souvenir, a visit to Shiseido Parlor in Ginza is a must, where you can discover an array of exquisite sweets that encapsulate the essence of this esteemed establishment.
Shiseido Parlour
Location: Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 8 Chome−8−3 4 5F Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 11:30 AM–9:30 PM Mon Closed Website: Shiseido Parlour
A visit to Ginza offers a treasure trove of luxurious souvenirs and delightful confectionery. From the century-old traditions of Seigetsudo Honten and Minamoto Kitchoan to the hidden gems like Tachibana’s Karinto and GENDY’s Brandy Cake, and the renowned offerings of Shiseido Parlor, each experience promises a journey of indulgence and refined tastes. Whether you’re seeking Japanese confectionery or a blend of Western influences, Ginza’s exquisite souvenir shops have something to delight every palate and create lasting memories of luxury in the heart of Tokyo.
With warmer weather making its way and flowers starting to bloom, it’s no better time to experiment with new fashion trends and spice up your wardrobe. With so many prints and colors to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to add to your collection. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to spruce up your spring/summer wardrobe with prints and color.
Assess Your Current Wardrobe
Before you start adding prints and colors, it’s important to assess your current wardrobe. Take out all your clothes and separate them by color and style. This will give you an idea of what colors and prints you already have and what you need to add to your collection.
Play with Colors
Spring and summer are all about bright and bold colors so don’t be afraid to mix and match! For a bold and vibrant look, try a one-tonal outfit to create a chic vibrant outfit, or opt for contrasting colors to catch the eye. For a more subtle look, try pairing pastel colors like pink and lavender that will leave a soft, feminine touch.
Prints are a great way to add a pop of color and texture to your outfit. Don’t be afraid to experiment with prints like florals, stripes, polka dots, and animal prints. To avoid looking too busy, pair one printed piece with solid-colored pieces.
While prints and colors are fun to play with, it’s important not to overdo it. Too many prints and colors can look overwhelming and take away from the overall look. If you’re unsure, start with one printed or colored piece and build your outfit around it.
When choosing prints and colors, it’s important to consider the fabric. Light and airy fabrics like cotton and chiffon are perfect for spring and summer – they’re breathable, light and will keep you feeling comfortable on the hottest of days. And to make things easier for yourself, opt for pieces that are machine-washable. Not only will this save you time and energy from having to go to the dry cleaners, but it will also help keep your clothes looking and feeling fresh after a long day soaking up the sun.
Accessorize with Prints and Color
If you’re not ready to go all out with prints and colors, start off with accessories like scarves, shoes, and bags. By adding a subtle pop of color to a simple outfit, you can make a chic statement that’s also playful and fun. This is a great way to experiment with prints and colors without fully committing to a bold outfit.
Adding pops of red with black is the perfect power combo!
Invest in Quality Pieces
Investing in quality pieces is important when it comes to prints and colors. Quality pieces will last longer and maintain their color and print after multiple washes. Look for fabrics that are durable, won’t fade easily and be a staple in your wardrobe time after time again.
Adding prints and colors to your spring/summer wardrobe can be a challenge, but with these tips, you can inject some personality into your outfit while still maintaining a polished look. Thankfully, kay me has you covered with our collection of washable, durable, and vibrant pieces. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or a confidence boost for any occasion, our Japan-made items will be ready to back you up for many years to come.
As COVID-19 has brought tremendous change to what we all knew as the ordinary work life, many trends have been adopted as the result of it. Over the years these trends have created what seems to be lasting changes that have created opportunities for new businesses, and for creating a better management of work-life balance. The newest of these trends is Quiet Quitting, a term that was popularized on the viral social media platform TikTok. Quiet Quitting is when employees work within defined work hours and engage solely in activities within those hours. They do not strive for promotions, take on extra work and keep a distinct boundary between their work and personal life, prioritizing their life outside of work. Although this concept has been seamlessly integrated by workers in the western world, centralized around millennials and Gen Z in the US, how has this translated over to countries that value high work ethic like Japan?
Is Quiet Quitting happening in Japan? Meet the Yutori Generation
Surprisingly, a similar concept to Quiet Quitting, Tang Ping or “lying flat”, was popularized in China back in 2021. Conceptualized by Chinese workers that were burned out from poor management, and began prioritizing their physical and mental well-being. Even before the concept of Tang Ping and Quiet Quitting, the initial cultural shift of the Japanese outlook on society is said to have begun with the upbringing of the “Yutori Generation”, born between the late 1980s-early 2000s.
The possibility of Quiet Quitting being adopted in Japan is a curious concept as tradition and culture often seem to be set in stone, especially in the work scene. Many articles in Japan have explored Quiet Quitting and how it would impact the company and those within it when one partakes in this concept. In an article by Kind’s Service, a human resource service company in Japan, they debate whether people who practice Quiet Quitting are truly happy, explaining how true happiness comes from the appraisal of others and feeling useful, and with Quiet Quitting one will never feel self-fulfillment by only doing the bare minimum at their workplace. With how integrated and delicate many company roles are, when one person only does their necessary tasks, the burden is placed on another worker, ultimately resulting in a troubling situation for the entire company. The potential of burdening another person, even if unintentional, is a cultural taboo especially in Japan and may be the sole reason that Quiet Quitting is not as popularized as it is in other countries. Other critics argue that Quiet Quitting does not resolve any issues and is only a temporary solution for one person. Although the idea may be pondered especially by those who are just entering the workforce, Quiet Quitting may bring flawed management and workplace systems into light which will help bring reform, but it is safe to assume that this will merely be a timely trend for now.
The center of Quiet Quitting appears to be the ability to juggle a healthy work-life balance, whether that entails a passion project, hobby, or spending time with loved ones. To all the Quiet Quitters or busy go-getters – whichever side of the coin you are on, it’s always important to set time aside to recharge and refresh before going into work the next day. Finding the right outfit for work every morning or finding time on your limited days off to drop off workwear at the dry cleaner can take away from those precious moments. Luckily, prioritizing on the things that count is in the kay me DNA. With 2-second office wear, work-to-bar dresses, and saying goodbye to fussy dry cleaner visits, spend that extra time on what you love to do the most!
With restrictions easing up around the world and cases falling, it is no surprise that more and more are making their way back into the office, adapting a new mindset not only in employees but companies too. After the past ‘pandemic-ridden’ years where the lines between work and life have been blurred, we see a new leaf turning in the dress codes in Japan where many companies are loosening their dress codes to be business casual, rather than strictly business.
Throughout the years, especially recently, the Japanese work environment has evolved at a rapid rate due to more efforts made towards SDGs and because of work life changes brought forth by COVID-19.
‘Cool Biz’ and its latter counterpart ‘Warm Biz’ are two campaigns with the concept of implementing more casual dress codes for summer and winter, introduced by Japan’s Environment Ministry. This meant people were finally able to wear short sleeves in the summer and sweaters in the winter, rather than the traditional suit and tie set-up. By simply tweaking the dress code to fit the seasons, many companies were able to cut their electricity bills typically used on AC units throughout the offices.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses switched to remote working where dress codes became more comfort-central and casual, to even non-existent for days without video conferences. These concepts and more have pushed the idea of ‘business casual’ in Japan to be more popular and accepted by bigger companies. Although the definition of business casual varies with each business, here are a few rules that many Japanese women follow:
Wearing neutral colors to not disturb the workplace atmosphere, with exception of the “50% rule” – avoiding outfits where more than half of the total coordinate consists of vibrant colors such as red and yellow.
Avoiding overexposure of skin by covering decolletage, shoulders, and above the knees.
Finding the right fit of clothing that is not too loose but not too tight where the bodyline is visible.
Looking formal enough to feel confident meeting clients and attending conferences.
Here are a few examples of popular business casual outfits based on a survey of 400 Japanese businesspeople around Tokyo, conducted by Monitas. D (Shirt + skirt or trousers) and E (dress) are the most prevalently seen amongst Japanese businesswomen in Tokyo, and G (casualwear) is the most popular style that they wish to see become more popular and accepted in the office. The list above is carefully followed with every single combination, including the use of muted colors and appropriate coverage for the workplace.
That’s why opting for a small selection of easy to mix-and-match pieces that offers versatility without raising eyebrows has become popular within the business casual scene. With nuanced color staples you can build multiple looks from, you can get the most out of the same item and save yourself time in the morning. For example, the kay me Midi Mermaid Skirt is the perfect companion to create business casual looks! By keeping the bottom of the outfit a neutral solid color like Khaki, it adds possibilities for what can be worn on top while both keeping the 50% rule and providing coverage down below the knees. For occasions that call for more formality, the skirt can be paired with its matching jacket for an instant suit-like appearance!
For those looking to inject more color into their business casual style, opting for a light toned skirt like Beige with a colored top keeps the style fresh yet still sharp, or choosing Pink not only complements a range of skin tones but brings a soft and elegant hue to the office environment.
Easy, breezy with a Docking Dress
Another suggestion would be wearing docking dresses, which cuts the time of deciding an outfit without compromising versatility. Take our White x Gray Docking Twist Dress for example; this dress can be worn on its own, cutting decision-making time down to mere seconds. Throw over and button up a cardigan on top to transform the dress into a skirt-like appearance. And of course for unexpected guest visits or for presentation days, the dress can be coordinated with its matching jacket for an instant suit ensemble! Docking dresses are perfect for those looking for the ease and comfort of simply slipping into a dress with the appearance of a skirt and top. By coordinating the right outerwear for each occasion, docking dresses can drastically change their appearance from chic and intellectual to soft and welcoming!
Or for a dress with a casual-chic touch that plays with textures, our Sophie Faux-leather Docking Dress not only looks sharp, but makes getting ready in the morning even faster – simply slip in and zip up!
Add a splash with colored Pumps
Of course, another challenge that comes with dressing business casual is footwear. Even with the office dress code becoming more lenient and comfort-oriented, allowing flats and lower heels, many Japanese women still opt for heeled pumps for fashion and feeling more confident at work. However, a concern that many women faced when wearing pumps was how tired and achy their feet became especially after a long day at work. To combat this without compromising the chic style pumps add to an outfit, we recommend pumps designed with extra cushioning and support, like our Puni Puni Pumps collection! Our lightweight pumps have been specially designed for comfortable support and features 10 times the amount of cushioning compared to other brands. Made specifically for working women in mind, these shoes will keep you feeling comfortable and fabulous from morning to night! Although our Puni Puni Pumps are available in 29 shades, why not venture from adding a splash of color to your ordinary business casual outfit to add subtle personality?
With the shift of workwear dress codes becoming more casual, it may seem intimidating at first to make sure you are not dressing too casual, or not enough. Crafting outfits with a larger range of freedom could be overwhelming at first so it’s always best to take inspiration from women around you, or even women you look up to. Here at kay me we wish to be there every step of the way as you step up to looking your best in business casual attire. With our incredible selection of clothing, shoes, and bags, you’ll find your unique business casual style in no time!
As summer peaks around the corner, many people are quick to switch out their wardrobe for bright, vibrant colors to signify the end of cold, gloomy winter. But what if colors aren’t your cup of tea, or doesn’t fit the TPO (Time, Place, Occasion)? Our solution is simple: stick with the timeless and classic combination of black and white, with a twist!
In this article we’ll explore three monochromatic kay me dresses and how you can transform your black and white outfits to be light, airy, and vibrant for the summer season.
What better way to look fresh and new for the summer season than with a touch of bright white? Add a white item to instantly lift the complexion of the outfit and effortlessly brighten the look! This also helps to pull out the lighter shades in your monochromatic look and adds a crisp finish that ties the look together. Our Black Herringbone Cache-Coeur Ribbon Dress is the perfect match for any white jacket, featuring a chic and classical monochrome herringbone print complemented by a black ribbon tie at the waistline. The white jacket lifts the heaviness of the black used in the dress, creating a perfectly harmonious balance without straying from the monochromatic spectrum.
Bring roundness to the sharp edge of monochromatic items by pairing them with a soft earth tone such as beige or greige, or gray. By softening the color palette with the introduction of earth tones, the look becomes effortlessly lightweight, perfect for the warmer months. To take this method a step further, we recommend finding a monochromatic item that includes a touch of earth tones, such as our Classical Flower dresses that incorporate a light tone of beige. Our newly introduced Classical Flower print features delicately drawn flowers with detailed hand-drawn strokes of a pen. This pattern is the perfect mix of elegant and versatile, and can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion! Pair this dress with our Kanazawa-made cardigan for additional softness that comes from the luxurious knitting. By adding a knitted item on top the monochromatic sharpness is softened further with the textured fibers.
For those daring to be a bit more bold, adding a pop of color to your monochromatic look is the perfect way to celebrate the warmer, brighter months of summer! From fiery red to cheery yellow, kay me’s wide selection of colorful cardigans and items are sure to pair gorgeously with any monochromatic look. Our new Giraffe Geo print takes a chic and modern approach to monochrome prints by incorporating a giraffe print-like geometric pattern in black and brown with an accent of white highlight. By adding an additional pop of color with monochromatic prints, such as our Giraffe Geo series, the color appears more vibrant and fresh than it would on its own. To bring cohesive harmony to the look, focus on just one additional color to incorporate with your accessorization from head to toe, whether adding a bold accent color such as red or something more subtle like champagne pink!
Monochromatic prints are timeless classics that never go out of style and are ideal for any occasion, whether for business, leisure, or even special occasions. At kay me we have a wide array of monochrome dresses, from simple solid items to intricate floral or geometric prints. Our newly added prints, Herringbone, Classical Flower, and Giraffe Geo, take an updated modern twist on the traditional monochrome with the use of unique geometric shapes and hand-drawn flowers, only available at kay me. View our entire dress collection today on our website and don’t forget to use our new Dress Filter feature in order to find your perfect monochrome dress!
Entrepreneurship can come with many challenges, especially as women who continue to face adversities in the world of business. Though this is a global challenge, women in Japan are especially hindered by the gender gap present in the workplace. Despite being a country known for its progressive innovations and technological advancements, Japan placed 120th in World Economic Forum’s ‘The Global Gender Gap Report 2021’, 10 ranks down from 2019, speculated as the result of COVID-19. Despite the setbacks, female entrepreneurship has begun growing at a rapid rate in the past few years, especially in Japan.
The largest issue that seems to be present in pursuing female entrepreneurship in Japan is the lack of mentorship and networking opportunities that women are able to participate in. Aside from the business world globally being catered towards men, women in Japan are entrusted with the responsibility of childcare, domestic chores, and nursing their elderly parents. The result of these three factors creates a challenging environment for women in Japan to pursue entrepreneurship. During an interview with Japan Times, Mizuki Nakajima, CEO of coly Inc. explained how “Female entrepreneurs face hurdles as there are few female seniors whom they can consult about starting and operating businesses”. In order to combat this issue, many successful female CEOs have started up organizations and communities in order to provide mentorship and guidance to upcoming female entrepreneurs.
Women in Law Japan (WILJ), an example of one of these organizations, is a platform for women in legal professions to network in Japan. The importance of networking and building connections is shared with the president of WILJ, Catherine O’Connell, whom we’ve had the opportunity to interview in the past. Aside from starting Japan’s first lawyer-led legal podcast program, she also started her own boutique law firm in Tokyo, winning an Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2020. When asked for advice to share with kay me readers, O’Connell shared her three tips all centered around the most crucial aspect -networking. These three tips covered the value of every connection, the importance of maintaining connections without burning bridges, and stepping out of your comfort zone especially in the introductory stage.
Click here read about Catherine’s professional background as well as tips and tricks on networking:
So where do you start with becoming an entrepreneur and networking in Japan? The first step is to dress for success and attend networking opportunities and events! As Catherine shares in the second part of the interview, dressing for work, especially in Japan, is a “mark of respect not only to ourselves but to the person we are meeting with or the event we are attending”. She even shared with us how in true, respectful fashion she makes sure to dress professionally from head to toe even during online video meetings even if the person on the other end cannot see the full outfit.
Investing in a classic jacket and a matching skirt or trousers can create a number of looks that can be used for multiple networking events, whether in person or online. When networking in Japan, we recommend soft, timeless colors such as navy, beige, and gray. The kay me Double Jersey Beige Tailored Jacket pairs perfectly with its matching Wrap Skirt to create an effortless suit set. Dare to be a bit bold by wearing a patterned top inside the suit, or aim for a chic look with a solid colored blouse accented with colored accessories for a vibrant pop. As per Catherine’s advice on dressing for online meetings, no need to worry about comfort or wrinkles when seated in your kay me suit as all of our items are stretchy, wrinkle-resistant, and easy care!
To read more tips from Catherine on how to dress, and for an exciting glimpse into her personal life:
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