by Kelly Wetherille
As the holiday of love draws near, Tokyo’s fashion emporiums are vying for the attention of gift-givers with special themed items in a palette of reds and pinks. From limited-edition t-shirts to gem-encrusted handbags, there’s something to suit even the finickiest of Valentines. So whether you’re shopping for yourself or for that special someone, break out your wallet and hit the streets—if there was ever a time for dressing to impress, this is it.
Wacoal Dia uses the same high-quality materials and detailing in its lingerie to make a line of versatile clothing that goes from casual to feminine with just a few tucks and ties. This asymmetrical tank top is loose and flowing when worn down, but tie it on the side to create a nipped-in waist and interesting shape.
Top, ¥30,450,
tulle skirt, ¥29,400, and
nylon skirt, ¥10,500,
Wacoal Dia
(www.wacoaldia.com).
For that fancy V-Day dinner, add a touch of sparkle with these satin d’Orsay heels in the perfect shade of blush. The shape is flattering and the frayed edges add interest, while the mid-height heel won’t kill your feet during a night on the town.
Satin heels, ¥70,350,
Pedro Garcia,
available at Via Bus Stop
(www.viabusstop.com).
Ten percent of the proceeds of this t-shirt goes to the Japan Cancer Society as a part of the Pink Ribbon campaign to benefit breast cancer. But give and you shall receive, as each t-shirt comes with a box of strawberry candies from Dean & Deluca as a Valentine’s Day gift from Marc!
T-shirt, ¥7,875,
Marc by Marc Jacobs
(www.marcjacobs.com).
Cristiano Scognamiglio carries on his family’s tradition of making beautiful cameo jewelry and adds a modern touch at his Tokyo store, Cristiano by M+M Scognamiglio. From February 10–15 the shop will be holding a special Valentine’s Day sale with savings of 30 percent off the entire collection.
Pink shell cameo earrings in 14
karat gold, ¥60,000,
Cristiano by M+M Scognamiglio
(www.italycameo.jp).
The perfect way to add color and sparkle to a little black dress, this bag is handmade in India using tie-dyed silk and multi- colored jewels. It can be carried as a clutch, or use the long chain to sling it over your shoulder for hands-free accessorizing.
Jewel encrusted clutch, ¥36,750,
Santi,
available at Via Bus Stop
(www.viabusstop.com).
To really impress your Valentine, show off some leg with this fun and flirty dress covered in a print of heart-shaped rose petals. Or for the less daring, pair it with leggings and a cute jacket and you’re date-ready.
Satin minidress, ¥39,900,
Citrus Notes,
(www.citrusnotes.com).
Another statement accessory, these shoes use a combination of jacquard fabric, glitter, and chunky rhinestones to really stand out amongst the crowd. The pale pink and gold color combination is the perfect mix of feminine and sophisticated, and will go with just about any V-Day outfit.
Jacquard heels, ¥24,150,
Pepita D’oro United Arrows,
available at
Odette e Odile United Arrows
(www.odette-e-odile-jp).
For the men:
Looking for a Valentine’s Day gift that says ‘I care’ without going overboard? Try a casual yet stylish t-shirt from cult Japanese brand Hysteric Glamour. This Mona Lisa design will be especially popular among art and design buffs.
T-shirt, ¥12,390,
Hysteric Glamour
(www.hystericglamour.jp).
