Yukiko Hanai Spring 2014: Variety galore

Yukiko Hanai has been designing clothes since 1964, but the tears of joy she shed at the end of her Spring 2014 runway show in Tokyo showed that the pride in her own work has not diminished over time.  The prolonged applause from an appreciative audience and a smiling group of models – who accompanied Hanai down the runway- affirmed the popularity of the designer, who this year alone opened her flagship store in the upscale Ginza neighborhood, and another office and showroom in Shanghai.

Of course, none of these efforts would have been possible without her designs, and for Spring 2014 they were as varied as the selection of Top 40 and oldies hits that served as the soundtrack.  One segment featured toned-down, Cath Kidston-inspired blazers, dresses and scarves; another an elegant assortment of breezy copper and khaki fare with Aztec patterns.  Two pieces shown at the show’s conclusion, a capelet and a ball gown, resembled a gradation of black waves to roses, complete with cascading white piping.

With several capsule collections rolled into a single season, it may be difficult for the consumer to fall in love with every piece.  But Hanai has assured the buyer: with so many choices, she is bound to fall in love with at least one.

Photos: Yukiko Hanai Spring 2014 – Tokyo Fashion Week
all photos by Yuan-Kwan Chan / Meniscus Magazine

Video: Yukiko Hanai Spring 2014 – Tokyo Fashion Week
video by Yuan-Kwan Chan / Meniscus Magazine