Laura Leiva & Horace C. White

Modern Tokyo Times

Gone are the days where employees primarily head to the office Monday through Friday – working at home or telecommuting has a wide range of benefits for both the employer and the employee. While any employee likely prefers to work from a home office, encouraging employees to telecommute has plenty of benefits, including a lower overhead – workspaces at the office can be smaller, given there are less employees to worry about at any one given time. Employees who work from home are generally happier and more productive, and as an employer, who wouldn’t want that?

There are a range of new websites popping up over the Internet that cater to these working-from-home employees – whether it’s a website that brings workers together to collaborate, or an online inspiration board to help your staff stay inspired and energetic. Here are three growing websites that encourage communication and creativity from those working at home:

Sqwiggle: One of the leading concerns of those who work from home, or employers of telecommuting offices, is there is a potential lack of communication between teammates. Whether the company thrives on peer interaction or not Sqwiggle offers an online space for employees to log on and work as a team through an instant audio and video feed. No matter where employees are, they can all meet together as a team in a quick, efficient manner.

Link: https://www.sqwiggle.com/

Shopinterest: Looking to increase awareness and sales of goods through the Internet? Shopinterest allows users to upload images of goods for sale so browsers can easily find what they are looking for, or be visible for Internet shoppers who like to browse and re-pin images on popular social networking sites like Facebook or Pinterest. Home-based businesses would highly benefit from a website such as Shopinterest, simply because it offers an affordable, efficient way to promote or advertise goods for sale.

Link: http://www.shopinterest.co/

Mural.ly: Some employees are visually inspired and Mural.ly is a single online destination for a team of creative people to come together and work from remote locations. The website allows users to create visual murals for the entire team to view and edit – ideal for those in the creative arts or sales industries who need to visually create as a team, but from within a remote or home office.

Link: https://mural.ly/

As more employees begin working from home, innovative websites and applications will unite peers together in an efficient, visual manner to keep the workflow moving at an acceptable rate. These three websites are just some of the unique options for the new telecommuting workforce.

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Kanako Itamae and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

Japan is internationally famous within the fashion sector for being very dynamic when it comes to the luxury fashion market. After all, even during a long period of mainly stagnation to little growth the fashion sector continues to develop and grow. Of course, major Japanese and international boutiques had to re-adjust during difficult times and because of the power of social media and technology. However, despite all the negatives related to the Japanese economy during the last two decades many plush fashion boutiques made rich pickings throughout Japan.

It is known that the French group which controls the running of Gucci and Puma will focus on major renovation in the land of the rising sun based on optimistic economic hopes. Last year PPR SA (name will change to Kering in the near future) made a powerful sales increase of 9% when it came to their luxury brands. In total PPR is in charge of approximately twenty different brands. This reality highlights the extensive nature of their amazing portfolio.

Also, it is known that Puma outlets will expand based on the mega store in Osaka which opened up for business in late 2012. The Puma store in Osaka is the largest in the world and this sums-up the power of this amazing city. Therefore, the mega store in Osaka will become a stepping stone for expanding within Japan and in other parts of Asia.

In Japan the luxury market is extremely powerful because of the status image, the need to feel fashionable and upwardly mobile. Other essential areas apply to the pleasure of refinement and where quality in many walks of life is deemed an essential ingredient for obtaining a powerful lifestyle. Alongside this is the power of customer service because it is important that companies appreciate and value their clients by treating people with courtesy and utter professionalism.

The above reality means that a complete shopping experience is highly appreciated by individuals who adore luxury boutiques. This is also noticeable when it comes to the décor of respective brands. After all, fashion lovers of luxury brands appreciate space, layout and a relaxing environment. Therefore, many angles need to be focused on outside of fashion itself and this can be seen by the power of architecture for crème de la crème brands and in relation to other important areas.

Department stores have also witnessed early growth in the first quarter of 2013 and this bodes well for all luxury brands. In Japan the elite department stores are famous for exquisite quality, amazing choices of the finest Japanese and international boutiques in the world and where quality is a must. Of course Tokyo hogs the limelight in Japan but the mega city of Osaka is equally amazing when it comes to fashion. Other cities like Kobe also play a powerful role because many internal trends often pass through this city first.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “Technology is also growing in influence in Japan especially within the younger generation. This means that smartphones are now a major asset for some individuals when purchasing goods. Given this, it is essential that luxury brand companies respond to the changing social media in Japan. If not, then some will be left behind in the future because time, convenience, speed, and other essential areas, appeal greatly to many individuals.”

Another powerful aspect of the three mega areas of Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya is that you have 64 million people within these three powerful zones. Alongside this is the purchasing power of many people within these three zones of major economic vitality. Not surprisingly, international brands continue to flock to Japan despite nearly two decades of negative economic growth. Indeed, this reality is also a strange safety net because it is clear that if companies can get everything right; then they can also grow and make rich pickings during long cycles of negativity within the overall domestic economy.

Therefore, with positive signs being forecast for 2013 it is clear that Gucci and many other luxury brands are hoping that Japan is going to enter a positive period of economic growth. Given this reality, it appears that Gucci senses good times ahead therefore this company will renovate and focus on making the most of the Japanese apple pie.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Pierre Leblanc and Hiroshi Saito

Modern Tokyo Times

Japan for the last twenty years was the nation to kick and look down at with disdain in the economic arena because the American model was deemed to be dynamic, flexible and based on market principles. The banking crisis in America clearly showed the world that state intervention was the order of the day. Therefore, several years later the “American apple pie” appears to be getting covered in more debt despite more recent positive news about the unemployment rate in early 2013.

The European Union is also engulfed by a different debt crisis but one in which the situation appears to be spreading and no solutions appear to be on the table in order to remedy the crisis.  Therefore, both America and the European Union seem to be following the Japanese model but with different characteristics. Also, ongoing demonstrations in Greece is  highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the unemployment rate in many European Union nations is alarming.

Ironically, despite Japan “throwing away two wasted decades” and the terrible events of March 11 when the earthquake unleashed a potent and deadly tsunami; the government of Japan stepped in and bought more of Europe’s debt in order to boost the European Union. However, given the huge economic crisis generated by the tsunami and the radiation crisis, it is difficult to imagine America coping with such a strong currency given all the problems which are happening in Japan. Not only this, Japan increased its support of America during this trying time by buying more American government bonds.

Given this, it appears that Japan keeps on ticking while America keeps on selling more of its debt and given the lack of government policy directed towards the weakening dollar, it does appear that the government of America is not responsive to the international community. Therefore, the currencies of Japan and Switzerland are paying a high price because the value of the Japanese yen isn’t based on market fundamentals. In saying this, it is clear that plans are in the pipeline under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe whereby the yen will weaken.

In The Economist article called Debt and Politics in America and Europe: Turning Japanese the opening paragraph states “A GOVERNMENT’S  credibility is founded on its commitment to honor its debts. As a result of the dramas of the past few weeks, that crucial commodity is eroding in the West. The struggles in Europe to keep Greece in the euro zone and the brinkmanship in America over the debt ceiling have presented investors with an unattractive choice: should you buy the currency that may default, or the one that could disintegrate?”

Currently Japan’s debt ratio is the highest in the world but nothing is clear in Japan because this nation still intervened and offered a helping hand to the European Union. Also, Japan’s unemployment rate remains relatively low when compared with the speed of unemployment in America and in other nations where it is even higher, for example Spain.  Therefore, while America’s debt may be half the rate of Japan’s it is clear that the government of Obama did not step in to provide support to the European Union and nor does the American government appear to care about stabilizing the dollar.

However, Japan, the nation of two decades of little economic growth and periods of stagnation, keeps on mystifying many because the real picture appears disjointed and difficult to work out.

Therefore, the Chinese Communist Party must be at a loss because many major democracies and economic powers are in crisis.  Also, more important, it does appear that some democratic nations are blighted by political systems which focus on political power at the expense of long-term benefits for society.

Turning back to the article in The Economist the author stated “America’s debt debate seems still more kabuki-like. Its fiscal problem is not now—it should be spending to boost recovery—but in the medium term. Its absurdly complicated tax system raises very little, and the ageing of its baby-boomers will push its vast entitlement programmes towards bankruptcy. Mr. Obama set up a commission to examine this issue and until recently completely ignored its sensible conclusions. The president also stuck too long to the fiction that the deficit can be plugged by taxing the rich more: he even wasted part of a national broadcast this week bashing the wealthy, though the Democrats had already withdrawn proposals for such rises.”

Xinhua which is a state owned media agency in China commented about the recent debt debacle in America by stating that “Given the United States’ status as the world’s largest economy and issuer of the dominant international reserve currency, such political brinkmanship in Washington is dangerously irresponsible.”

The Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, stated about America that “They are living like parasites off the global economy and their monopoly of the dollar.” The language by Vladimir Putin was strong but clearly many individuals share similar sentiments but based on more moderate language.

The Soviet Union bit the dust because it could no longer create a viable economic system which could maintain economic growth.  The Chinese Communist Party understood this therefore all emphasis was put on economic growth and generating wealth irrespective “if the mouse was communist or capitalist.”

Will certain members of the European Union and America learn from the failure of Japan and implement genuine measures? Or will they follow the Japanese model and do little in the short-term in order to preserve political power bases? The European Union also faces many internal convulsions because why should Germany face the brunt of supporting incompetent governments in the euro-zone?

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both main writers

http://www.economist.com/node/21524874 – The Economist

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Tomoko Hara and Michel Lebon

Modern Tokyo Times

Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku (dubbed Omohara) opened just over one year ago and clearly the new dynamics of this adorable fashion place keeps on attracting huge crowds on a daily basis. The initial vibrancy during the early stages of Omohara remains strong today because of the freshness of the design and aspects of interaction which is related to events and utilizing social media. Therefore, the ambition of the early period of this new fashion landmark appears to be on course because Omohara already feels iconic.

Major landmark fashion stores in the plush environment of Harajuku and Omotesando includes Laforet Harajuku and Omotesando Hills. In 2013 a new development opened called Oak Omotesando which is focused on the luxury angle. This reality highlights the vitality of Harajuku and Omotesando when it comes to powerful exclusive fashion stores catering for many different angles.

Alongside this, you have iconic independent stores like 6%Dokidoki which caters for the buzzing kawaii angle to fashion and the chaotic punk image. Indeed, the buzzing youthful nature of Harajuku mingles freely with the plush and sophisticated nature of Omotesando. However, the beauty of Harajuku and Omotesando is that in the backstreets you also have a vibrant street fashion scene, independent stores, a lovely subculture angle and extremely stylish stores which appeal to people who adore lavish products. It is this amazing mixture which makes the entire zone one powerful hub for fashion because both fashion districts link up with Aoyama and Shibuya respectively.

In this sense, the founders of Omohara were extremely wise because this area is where Harajuku and Omotesando meets and naturally flows together. This reality means that the power of youth can be seen alongside the more sophisticated styles of people who adore high and exquisite fashion. Therefore, Omohara is located in a prime area whereby many different fashion trends meet.

Adorable fashion stores within Omohara include The Shel’tter Tokyo, Here’s, Charms, American Eagle Outfitters, Amo’s Style by Triumph, Tommy Hilfiger, Tocco Closet, Cheek by Archives, Choosy Chu, Glam Baby, Flag, Goa, Humor Shop by A-net, Minnetonka, Laboratory Work ReCurrent, Pink Trick, Rady, Rione Doras, Phoebe, Roomy’s and Jewelna Rose. Also, lifestyle stores are represented by AppBank Store, Aux Paradis, Hands Be and Tokyo’s Tokyo. Likewise, if you want to relax over a nice drink then Omohara Café and Starbucks enable fashion lovers to enjoy the electric buzz of Omohara.

Overall, it is clear that Omohara is a must place to visit for fashion lovers because all boutiques provide quality, style, creativity and a lovely freshness to fashion. The environment of Omohara is also extremely pleasing because of the lighting angle, spacious setting of each store and the user-friendly nature of many angles related to this vibrant place.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both main writers

Modern Tokyo Times images

http://omohara.tokyu-plaza.com/en/　

https://twitter.com/OMO_HARA

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com 

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Ri Kuk-Chol and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

Throughout Japan major fashion brands like Forever 21, H&M and Zara continue to attract much attention because all three companies are highly desired by hip fashion lovers. The above three brands provide a lovely edge to fashion and in many surveys done by Modern Tokyo Times in Tokyo they were well represented when it came to popularity. Also, their respective price mechanisms alongside providing adorable products, is a real winner and the same applies to churning out new goods based on short cycles.

Mixxo (E. Land Group) from South Korea entered the Japanese market in late March 2013. Production and sales are closely woven by adopting a powerful in-house system which is extremely comprehensive. Flexibility is also essential based on changing trends and the different climatic seasons. Therefore, Mixxo, Forever 21, H&M and Zara focus heavily on responding quickly and producing an abundant flow of new fashion products in order to maintain their respective rich vitality.

The power of fast-fashion in Tokyo can be seen by H&M and others entering the crème de la crème of fashion districts in this high octane city. Ginza in the past was firmly connected to exclusive boutiques and exquisite products. However, fast-fashion companies like H&M have entered the market of Ginza easily because of the nature of this company and its mass appeal. Of course, Ginza and the Yurakucho area are still known for exclusive brands but now the fast-fashion angle is altering the dynamics of Ginza. Likewise, H&M also responds naturally to the environment that it is located. In this sense, the changing dynamics also impacts on the styles and products of this powerful brand.

Forever 21, H&M and Zara can be found throughout Japan because each company can relate to the internal dynamics of international nations. This enables all three brands to strengthen new concepts internally – while being open to respective market conditions and designs – which appeal to their respective client base. Mixxo is a latecomer to the Japanese fashion market and while this company will have its own way of thinking and provide fresh new ideas; it is also true to say that they can learn much from Forever 21, H&M and Zara.

Mixxo opened its first outlet in late March 2013 in Yokohama and clearly the K-pop wave meant that a nice touch was provided by After School (Afterschool). This applies to the original opening day on March 22 in the Sogo Department Store in vibrant Yokohama, whereby group members became saleswomen during the start of this new venture for Mixxo in Japan.

It is hoped that Mixxo will gradually expand in Japan because the South Korean fashion angle is powerful from the fashion angle by itself whereby a new freshness emerges. Also, from a cultural point of view, it is essential that Japanese and Korean nationals among the younger generation feel the strong cultures of both nations in the areas of fashion, music, movies, dramas, anime – and a host of other areas – in order to breakdown the political barriers.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both main writers

https://www.facebook.com/MIXXO.KR Mixxo on Facebook

Modern Tokyo Times images related to street fashion in Tokyo

After School (Afterschool) image by ACROFAN

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Japanese Fashion and Vogue: Young and Over Thin Model Changes 1 Year Later in July 2013 

Tomoko Hara and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

In the middle of 2012 last year Vogue issued new guidelines whereby over thin models would no longer fit the bill. The other major guideline which stood out was that girls younger than 16 would also be prevented from representing this highly esteemed company based on stricter guidelines. It is well known that the fashion sector in the high end market is extremely demanding and in the past a very slim body was over emphasized. Of course, this didn’t always apply but by and large this image was deemed to denote beauty, sophistication, elegance and the perfect image related to stylish clothes. Therefore, it will be very interesting to see if Vogue releases information about these changes one year later in July 2013.

Vogue Japan is firmly established because the Vogue name is internationally famous therefore even non-fashion lovers know this exquisite company. Last year in 2012 Vogue was published in nineteen different nations throughout the world. Historical wise, Vogue is also very rich because this company can be traced back to 1892 when this publication was founded by Arthur Turnure. He was followed by Conde Montrose Nast after Arthur Turnure passed away in 1909. Ever since this period the power of American lifestyle and fashion made the headlines both internally and internationally.

However, issues related to anorexia, some models taking drugs because of lifestyle issues and enormous pressure – alongside areas of personal weakness – means that you have many dark sides to international fashion. Also, in recent years younger models are increasingly being used whereby the “boundaries” are becoming blurred between children and adults. On top of this, you have enormous cultural differences and because of these factors, and others; Vogue desires to take a responsible attitude to the dark side of fashion.

In Japan the age issue applies much more than over thin models because beauty and youth is very powerful within the culture. Indeed, images of young ladies of a very young age in established magazines may surprise people from outside of Japan. Therefore, for Vogue Japan the issue of over thin models will be secondary given the natural shape of many young ladies in this country, whereby the body frame in general is thinner than compared with many ladies in America. Of course, generalization is always dangerous but in general this applies despite dietary changes in Japan creeping into the social fabric.

In a past article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “On the whole the fashion industry in general normally uses models’ which fit the “perceived image of beauty.” This notably applies to being tall, thin, stylish, and extremely attractive. Vogue is no different because the same applies to internationally famous boutiques which desire to highlight their new designs on the above type of fashion models. Of course, from time to time you do get periods which break the chain and the same applies to individual fashion magazines and boutiques which go against the grain. Yet the crème de la crème of fashion and lifestyle magazines focus on a “perceived image of beauty.”

Vogue commented last year that “…editors around the world want the magazines to reflect their commitment to the health of the models who appear on the pages and the well-being of their readers.”

It will be interesting to see if Vogue issues information about their changed policies last year because some individuals were cynical about the new directives. For example, Audrey Brashich knows the sector very well because she was a teenage model. Audrey Brashich therefore comments that “The cynic in me feels like they are simply grandstanding while really just throwing a bone to an audience that is getting ever more savvy and tired of the tricks of the trade.”

Others point the finger in the other direction because they believe that conservatives are trying to stifle the creativity of fashion. Thereby, some individuals worry about infringing on freedom. In truth, Vogue can’t please everyone but many doubters which are cynical will be silenced if this company releases information about how these changes have impacted on models. Therefore, with the guidelines being implemented approximately one year ago it is hoped that Vogue will give further details in July 2013.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both main writers

Modern Tokyo Times Images

http://www.vogue.co.jp/

http://www.vogue.com

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Olivia Gregory 

Modern Tokyo Times

Money management is an important topic these days. With the economy still feeling sluggish and new jobs scarce, many individuals and families are striving to make their dollars (and other currencies) stretch as far as they will go each month. Money management advice for the modern era is plentiful through multiple avenues, but you want to make sure the money strategies you embrace are full of common sense and devoid of gimmicks. Take a look at these books if you want to begin or further your study of money management; each one of them offers practical advice on how to improve your financial position and avoid many financial pitfalls along the way.

1. The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness (by Dave Ramsey) ~ Written by financial guru Dave Ramsey, this book addresses short-term goals such as building an emergency fund along with long-term goals like planning for retirement and funding college education if you have children. Practical tips and proven strategies make this book a must-read.

2. Dave Ramsey’s Complete Guide to Money: The Handbook of Financial Peace University (by Dave Ramsey) ~ A great resource if you are just starting to learn about money management, Dave Ramsey’s Complete Guide to Money reflects the principles taught in his 13-week class. If you don’t have time to take a class and need a jumpstart in money management, this is a terrific place to begin.

3. The Truth about Money, 4th Edition (by Ric Edelman) ~ A prominent financial advisor, Ric Edelman delivers a book that discusses many different money management topics through informative chapters including “Planning Your Retirement Lifestyle” and “The Most Important Financial Decision You’ll Make.”

4. The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous, & Broke (by Suze Orman) ~ Another well-known name in the world of finance, Suze Orman begins Money Book with a discussion about credit reports, job hunting, and student debt, providing a wealth of knowledge for the specific challenges facing the younger generation today.

5. On My Own Two Feet: A Modern Girl’s Guide to Personal Finance (by Manisha Thakor and Sharon Kedar) ~ Written specifically with women in mind, this book delves into topics that will help women of all ages manage their money well and prepare for the future. Learn about insurance, budgeting, saving, credit, and more.

6. The Retirement Challenge: Will You Sink or Swim?, A Complete, Do-It-Yourself Toolkit to Navigate Your Financial Future (by Frank Armstrong, III and Jason R. Doss) ~ If retirement is in your near future, you are probably already planning for it—this book could be a great resource to make sure you have all your bases covered. Exploring the financial realities of what it takes to create a successful retirement, The Retirement Challenge will help you or the ones you love navigate this life transition.

7. How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free: Retirement Wisdom that You Won’t Get from Your Financial Advisor (by Ernie J. Zilinski) ~ Another resource for retirement planning, this book focuses not only on the financial aspects of retirement but also on the social, mental, and physical aspects as well. Chapter titles include “Retirement: A Time to Become Much More than You Have Ever Been” and “So Many Worlds, So Much to Do!”

8. Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your Twenties and Thirties (by Beth Kobliner) ~ Bestselling author Beth Kobliner delivers a book dedicated to helping those in their twenties and thirties thrive financially with advice on topics such as credit cards, student loans, choosing a bank, money markets, and inflation. Providing a wide variety of information, this book is actually a great handbook for people of all ages.

9.   Debt-Free Forever: Take Control of Your Money and Your Life (by Gail Vaz-Oxlade) ~ The first step to good money management for many people may be to set up a plan for getting out of debt. Debt-Free Forever can help you evaluate where you are currently and then will assist you as you make a plan to become debt-free and stay that way!

10. How to Get Out of Debt, Stay Out of Debt, and Live Prosperously: Based on the Proven Principles and Techniques of Debtors Anonymous (by Jerrold Mundis) ~ Author Jerrold Mundis explores debt in great detail in this book, discussing topics ranging from the warning signs of debt to establishing a solid plan for change. With no-nonsense writing and clear explanations, Mundis offers a fantastic text examining the realistic possibility of debt-free living for anyone.

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Sarah Deschamps and Hiroshi Saito

Modern Tokyo Times

Michel Kors ventured into the competitive fashion market of Japan in 2009 and since this period this brand continues to consolidate. The handbag market is just one angle to the products sold by Michael Kors but this area alone is worth a staggering amount each year throughout Japan. Now it is becoming clear that inroads are being made in this area and other important segments of the fashion sector in the land of the rising sun. Therefore, many people are waiting for the respective sales of Coach and Michael Kors in 2013 in relation to the market of Coach and if Michael Kors is making inroads in Japan against this company?

After all, Coach may be on the horizon of Michael Kors in Japan because this company is firmly established and highly desired. Indeed, the reputation of Coach is known internationally for being extremely creative and where vibrancy is maintained year after year. With Coach being firmly established in Japan then the impact of Michael Kors in the handbag market is extremely intriguing for many fashion lovers in this country.

In the United States it was stated about Coach that their customer service is second to none. This angle is certainly important throughout Japan and noticeably in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka where the fashion market is enormous. According to the data of the Luxury Institute in America 25% of wealthy women had purchased a Coach bag. Equally powerful is that the same statistic was given for buying a new handbag in the next twelve months. No other company came close to Coach in America in other types of surveys.

It was stated by the Luxury Institute about Coach that “By design, Coach is a consumer-centric brand built on strong core values. In an increasingly commoditized and highly competitive global luxury handbag market, it is simply not enough to outperform your competition on products; you have to dramatically out behave them. “Unlike brands that tout their customer culture, yet fail to demonstrate consistent long-term profitability, Coach has repeatedly achieved superior results in Luxury Institute surveys for quality of product and service. In the mind of the U.S. luxury consumer, they are the clear winner in the Handbag and Accessories space,” says Milton Pedraza, CEO of Luxury Institute.”

Clearly, within the handbag and accessories sector in Japan it is clear that Coach is adored by many because their share of the market is sizeable. Michael Kors can certainly learn much from Coach when it comes to the Japanese market. Therefore, with growth being extremely respectful for Michael Kors in Japan, then clearly this company is learning quickly.

Timothy Schepis, (https://twitter.com/tokyofashndaily) who is highly respected when it comes to the retail fashion scene in Tokyo and throughout Japan, commented that Michael Kors will be “hot in Japan for many years to come.” This can be seen by the inroads being made by Michael Kors in Japan within just a few years. Given this fact, then new stores are planned based on strong sales and high demand within this nation. 

In an earlier article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “Turning back to the luxury fashion market in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka then clearly you have enormous potential. It must be remembered that just over 64 million people reside in the mega-regions of Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya. When this is fused with the purchasing power of most Japanese nationals, along with the fact that luxury items are highly desired by many fashion lovers in this nation; then clearly Michael Kors and other major luxury fashion brands understand the power of Japan.”

Coach and Michael Kors are extremely popular in Japan and many other nations because of the products they produce and a host of other factors. It is extremely intriguing to see how these two companies will shape up in terms of the share of the market in three to four years time. After all, Michael Kors is still expanding in Japan and by this time a fairer reflection will be known about the real impact of Michael Kors within the handbag and accessories market in Japan. However, one thing is for sure and that is that both companies will be in high demand providing they abide by the strategies and products which have firmly established both companies internationally.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both writers

http://www.michaelkors.com

www.coach.com/

http://luxuryinstitute.com/blog/?p=1473

Lee Jay Walker gave assistance to both writers.

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/2012/08/michael-kors-hot-in-japan.html

Michel Lebon and Kanako Itamae

Modern Tokyo Times

The vibrant fashion district of Shinsaibashi will witness the opening of the first Monki store in Japan on June 1, 2013. This fashion brand which hails from Sweden is under the extremely popular Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M) group. It was known last year that H&M would introduce Monki and Weekday to Japan by early 2014 at the latest. In another article published by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “this date could feasibly be moved forward” and clearly this is the case for Monki.

It is great for the Osaka fashion scene that Monki decided to open their frirst store in Japan in this amazing city. After all, while Osaka plays second fiddle to Tokyo when it comes to press coverage, it is abundantly clear that this city can hold its own. H&M clearly understand the vibes of Japan because this brand is extremely popular throughout this country. Therefore, H&M decided that Osaka was a fitting city to introduce Monki to the people of Japan.

Last year H&M opened new stores in several parts of Japan and of major significance was the focus on the Nagoya area. In truth, the maturity of H&M in Japan can be witnessed by how they expanded throughout Tokyo and the Kanto area in general. This was followed by greater penetration within Osaka and other powerful fashion environments within the Kansai region.

The introduction of Monki and Weekday to the Japanese fashion market is clearly a clever touch by H&M because both fashion brands will enhance the reputation of this company. Also, the different fashion angles to both Monki and Weekday will highlight the diversity within the H&M fashion group. Therefore, many fashion lovers of H&M will enjoy this new freshness and for shoppers in Shinsaibashi they will be the first to experience Monki which will reach out to a new client base.

In the buzzing fashion district of Shinsaibashi you have many powerful boutiques. A partial list includes Chanel, Gucci, Dior, Coach, Armani, Fendi, Rolex, Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Louis Vuitton, Omega, Versace, Yves Saint-Laurent, Dunhill, BVLGARI, Givenchy, Beams, H&M, Ships, Uniqlo, United Arrows, Franck Muller, and many others including Benneton. Therefore, the delightful fashion of Monki will start its new venture in Japan in a very high octane district.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times in relation to the electric fashion scene of Osaka it was stated that “If you visit the Midosuji Boulevard and the area surrounding the Nagahori-dori intersection within the Shinsaibashi district, then you will notice so many amazing boutiques. This part of Osaka fuses naturally within the vibrancy of fashion in this amazing city. Namba may be much more independent but collectively the fashion districts are enriching each other. After all, it highlights the vibrancy of fashion in Osaka irrespective if this applies to high-end fashion boutiques, independent fashion, mainstream fashion, and the wealth of other fashion styles which can be found in this fascinating city.”

Monki will provide its own vibrancy to the adorable fashion scene of Shinsaibashi in Osaka.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

http://www.monki.com/

http://en.fashion-headline.com/article/2013/05/27/990.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Modern Tokyo Times images

Hiroshi Saito and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

The stylish American lifestyle fashion brand, Kate Spade, is focused on opening five stores in Japan by the middle of 2013 in relationship to the sister brand. Omotesando in Tokyo was selected earlier in March this year to become the flagship store in Asia for Kate Spade Saturday. Kate Spade Saturday is entering the Japanese market with such an advantage because of the Kate Spade brand being firmly established in Japan.

Osaka followed on because a new store was opened also in March this year shortly after the flagship store in Omotesando. The Osaka environment is extremely powerful both commercially and in the area of fashion because of many trendy districts like Namba, Umeda, Shinsaibashi and many others. Also, the closeness of Kobe to Osaka provides one enormous hub for Japanese and international commerce. Therefore, Kate Spade Saturday certainly picked the two economic powerhouses in Japan.

The Kate Spade Saturday brand will fit in well with the environment of Harajuku and Omotesando because these two amazing fashion districts naturally flow together. Harajuku is internationally famous for youth fashion and many subcultures which thrive in this trendy part of Tokyo. This reality fits in well with the amazing mix of colors which can be found at Kate Spade Saturday.

Also, the main street which links Harajuku and Omotesando provides a very bohemian vibe. More important, you have so many different fashion trends. This applies to kawaii culture; the buzzing fashion boutique 6%DokiDoki (6%DOKIDOKI) which fuses kawaii culture with chaotic punk based on adorable color schemes; American street style fashion in the backstreets of Omotesando; exquisite Japanese and international boutiques in Omotesando; independent vibes; mainstream fashion in and around Omotesando Hills; and an array of other styles. Therefore, Kate Spade Saturday will be rewarded for its lovely creativity and independent styles which come alive by amazing color schemes.

Kate Spade and the New York fashion angle certainly suits major cities in Japan which are home to the crème de la crème of Japanese and international brands. At the same time, you have very distinctive features of major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kobe. Kobe is sometimes overlooked but often many vibes enter this city first and then they impact within Japan. The strong bond of American fashion and culture is also extremely popular in Japan. This reality means that Kate Spade Saturday should suit the natural intensity of fashion within this amazing country.

The president of Kate Spade in Japan is Ayako Yanagisawa and she stated in Reuters that “Because the brand’s concept originated in Japan and we really wanted to make the brand global, we felt Tokyo was the perfect city to launch this brand.”

Theresa Canning Zest, the Kate Spade Saturday creative director, informed The Japan Times that “We have been here for more than 15 years. So the brand awareness and affinity is very strong here. Therefore, it made sense to launch another brand with the Kate Spade name in it here first.”

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

http://www.katespade.com/ Kate Spade website

https://www.saturday.jp/ Kate Spade Saturday website in Japanese

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Hiroshi Saito and Kanako Itamae

Modern Tokyo Times

Takashimaya Co. is one of the major department stores in Japan and despite the challenging international economy they have plans to expand within Asia over the next few years. Currently the internal economy of Japan appears to be picking up based on the policies of the Bank of Japan in early 2013.  Despite this, many areas of the  international economy remains sluggish but irrespective of this Takashimaya plans to expand.  Positive early results related to sales in the first few months of 2013 in Japan also point to a nice springboard for future international expansion.

This company was founded in 1829 and since this time many changes have impacted on Takashimaya. Like any major company within such a competitive sector then many major highs and lows have happened.  At the same time periods of low growth and stagnation have also been a reality. This often coincided with the internal mechanisms of the Japanese economy. However, despite everything fresh ideas and more international knowledge meant that new openings have maintained this company through thick and thin.

It is difficult to imagine the luxury fashion floors within this elegant department store and then equate this with being founded during the Edo period. Yet this is the richness of this exquisite department store which originates from Kyoto.

In the modern world of high octane fashion and enormous competition the Takashimaya department store can be found throughout Japan. International wise they have stores in France, Singapore and Taiwan. The American adventure wasn’t successful. However, like all pitfalls any good company worth its salt will reinvigorate itself and this is what Takashimaya appears to be able to do. After all, the longevity of this company speaks for itself.

Takashimaya’s China venture whereby around three to four department stores were planned between the middle of 2012 until 2016 did raise some alarm bells last year because of negative events between China and Japan. This applies to the ongoing tensions between China and Japan, attacks against Japanese companies during heightened nationalist sentiments last year, the slowing economy in China towards the end of 2012 and fears that the market is already saturated. Therefore, it will be interesting to see if Takashimaya changes some of their long-term ambitions in relation to this but in early 2013 the situation appears more stable than in the middle of 2012. Of course, Takashimaya will continue to monitor this issue which is outside their remit because of the political dimension between China and Japan.

According to internal analysts within Takashimaya they forecast an internal shortfall which will be matched by projected growth in their international stores and within its group business. The President of Takashimaya, Koji Suzuki, informed The Asahi Shimbum in 2012 that “We plan to invest to renovate department stores in Japan, but we will not be able to keep (domestic department store) sales from falling…We will maintain sales with our overseas and group businesses.”

In Tokyo Fashion Daily the highly respected Timothy Schepis reports that “For the six month period from May to August 2012, Takashimaya will report a 16% increase in consolidated operating profit of 10.5 billion yen…The increase in consolidated operating profits comes amid sluggish sales at Japan’s department stores – still Takashimaya’s operating revenue also increased 2% to finish at 420 billion yen for the same six month period.”

However, in early 2013 Takashimaya appears to be doing much better than thought possible by the president of this company in the middle of 2012. Modern Tokyo Times states in another article about Takashimaya that “…it was reported that a bullish 17% profit margin occurred between April and November 2012. Now it is apparent that consolidated operating profit for the entire year was 20% and with recent figures indicating further growth in March 2013, then it is hoped that this economic growth is pointing in the right direction for the entire sector in Japan. After all, in recent times the sale figures were often sluggish at Takashimaya because of the overall economy being negative, internal issues, unable to keep costs down, this sector being extremely competitive and other important factors.  However, now it would appear that Takashimaya is turning the corner.”

Takashimaya department stores are famous because of the exquisite brands which can be found in all their respective stores. Therefore, this company is hoping to expand within China, south-east Asia and Vietnam. If you adore luxury fashion, a whole array of quality products, scrumptious food and so much more, then clearly Takashimaya will cater for you.

http://www.takashimaya.co.jp/shinjuku/store_information/index.html

http://twitter.com/tokyofashndaily

http://moderntokyotimes.com/2013/04/11/japan-fashion-news-takashimaya-department-store-and-strong-growth/

http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/2013/04/takashimaya-hits-record-high-for-first.html　

http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/2012/09/takashimaya-up-in-first-half.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Sarah Deschamps and Hiroshi Saito

Modern Tokyo Times

The different vibes of Tokyo fashion are always in heavy demand both internally and internationally therefore the Style Arena website is a must place to check continuously for latest images and news. Images on Style Arena highlight the “real Tokyo” and the interactive knowledge of the respective individuals being highlighted provides powerful information. This applies to the current trends and favorite boutiques of each respective individual. Therefore, Style Arena provides a stylish fresh approach with complete professionalism at all times.

Style Arena http://www.style-arena.jp is currently highlighting Japanese Punk vibes in the New Tribe sector. Once more, each image highlights the stunning and changing fashion vibes of a craze which is reaching the streets of Tokyo from an independent angle. This complements the mainstream reality of much of Style Arena which focuses on powerful fashion districts within buzzing Tokyo.

The five main fashion districts whereby photos are uploaded frequently apply to Daikanyama, Ginza, Harajuku, Omotesando and Shibuya. These five delightful districts provide a lovely ambience to Style Arena based on the distinctiveness of each fashion zone.

After all, the buzzing independence of Harajuku is internationally famous therefore vast numbers of fashion lovers all over the world are fascinated by the unique vibes emanating from this fashion district. Meanwhile, Shibuya is also recognized for being a vibrant youth district for fashion lovers and whereby “Shibuya girls” are known by their own special styles and delightful haircuts. Of course, in Harajuku and Shibuya you also have exquisite mainstream fashion and a plethora of boutiques catering for different styles.

Daikanyama is very different because this fashion district is quaint and off the beaten track for international fashion lovers who visit Tokyo for the first time. However, within Tokyo this lovely district is known for independent fashion styles, elegance and having a warm atmosphere. Also, the lifestyle of Daikanyama is highly desirable therefore this place is in high demand when it comes to a place to call home. Therefore, by providing images of individuals who adore the Daikanyama fashion scene, it is interesting to note the differences in favorite boutiques and trends among some of the people interviewed,

Ginza and Omotesando are two districts which are known for the crème de la crème of Japanese and international fashion. This reality means that you will find many adorable European and American boutiques which mix freely with exquisite Japanese boutiques. These two fashion districts are extremely wealthy and the architecture is also another lovely feature of Ginza and Omotesando. 

Tokyoites are fully aware that Harajuku, Omotesando and Shibuya naturally flow together alongside Aoyama which is another amazing fashion district. In the backstreets of Omotesando and Harajuku you will also find independent styles and the vibes of American street fashion can be felt heavily in the backstreets of Omotesando. Therefore, you have a lovely synergy to the entire area which links these fantastic fashion zones into one enormous fashion hub.

Daikanyama is not so far away from Shibuya by train therefore Ginza is the one fashion district which is highlighted by Style Arena which stands out by its location. Like already stated, Ginza and Omotesando share many similar themes when it comes to high fashion. However, with the interplay between Omotesando and Harajuku being so strong and the same applies to Shibuya in terms of distance; then the focus on Ginza does provide another lovely angle to Style Arena.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times about Style Arena it was stated that “Style Arena is extremely easy on the eye and clearly all the appropriate information is provided. This applies to respective individuals who highlight their favorite fashion companies and other important areas. The photo images also highlight many different angles and clearly great care is being taken. However, it is the easy available information which provides the “in boutiques” which is a huge winner.”

Overall, Style Arena is a must place to visit for fashion lovers who adore the rich angle of this sector in Tokyo. At all times this website is updated with lovely images and latest news whereby other fashion districts are highlighted. The user friendly nature of Style Arena and the language angle which reaches out internationally sums up the entire professionalism of this exquisite website.

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both main writers.

http://www.style-arena.jp

http://www.style-arena.jp/street/individual/dt/5533

http://www.style-arena.jp/street/individual/dt/5541

Images in this article are not from Style Arena.  Please click on the Style Arena website to view the latest trends of Tokyo. These images belong to MODERN TOKYO TIMES

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com