#Japan #Tokyo #Aqua Melange #Mizuno Milliner #washable hats

Aqua Melange: The New Standard for Washable Summer Hats

Mizuno Milliner Co., a venerable hat manufacturer founded in 1924, is set to unveil a vibrant collection of hats for Spring and Summer 2025 named the Aqua Melange series. Available from April 2025, this exciting lineup showcases 11 distinct items, all crafted using a unique material developed solely by the company.

What is Aqua Melange?

The term "Aqua Melange" combines the French word for "water" and "melange", which means to mix. This innovative fabric, first introduced in 2013, is made from natural washi paper, enhanced with washability features. It aims to meet customer demands for stylish yet functional summer wear, overcoming the challenges of traditional paper hats that cannot be washed.

Customers often expressed concern regarding discomfort from the rough texture of summer materials, prompting Mizuno Milliner's efforts to create a solution that offers a soft, pleasant touch without the common prickliness typically found in natural fabrics. The Aqua Melange material holds up to handwashing, allowing you to keep your hats clean and fresh with ease.

Unique Features of Aqua Melange

The Aqua Melange collection stands out due to several remarkable characteristics:
1. Washable: Thanks to the incorporation of water-resistant agents during production, each piece is handwashable at home.
2. Soft Texture: The fabric has been designed to maintain a soft touch, eliminating the roughness often associated with natural materials.
3. UV Protection: The innovative Aqua Melange fabric boasts over 90% UV protection, making it a safe choice for outdoor wear.
4. Vibrant Colors: Using advanced dyeing technology, the hats can achieve lively hues and natural variations, overcoming the common fading issues associated with natural fabrics.
5. Versatile Applications: This material can be utilized beyond hats, with numerous customizable options for bags and accessories.

Spring/Summer 2025 Collection Highlights

The upcoming collection features a variety of new shades, including two trending sherbet colors available in nine selections, emphasizing brightness and fun ideal for the warmer months. While paper materials are typically found in subdued colors like beige, Aqua Melange breaks the mold with its stunning array of colors, catering to customers looking for something unique.

Mizuno Milliner will also introduce new designs that combine Aqua Melange with cotton fabrics, creating an entirely new style of caps and bonnets previously unavailable in the market.

Featured Products

• - Hand-Knitted Small Brim Hat: A foldable hat that protects against UV rays (90%) and is handwashable. Priced at ¥14,500 (excluding tax).
• - New Style Bonnet: This updated design features a tidy back to accommodate ponytails, a drawstring accent, and keeps the hat secure in windy conditions. Priced at ¥14,500 (excluding tax).
• - Cotton and Aqua Melange Cap: Breathable and washable with UV protection, this cap showcases a versatile design that integrates Aqua Melange's unique touch. Priced at ¥11,000 (excluding tax).

Where to Find Aqua Melange

The Aqua Melange collection will be available at major department stores including Isetan, Tobu, and Keio. The products can also be purchased through the Mizuno Milliner online store.

For inquiries, customers can contact Mizuno Milliner Co. at 03-3611-5611.

About Mizuno Milliner Co.

Mizuno Milliner has dedicated itself to the craft of hat-making since its establishment in 1924. The company strives to balance traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, ensuring that their hats remain fashionable and accessible. With a declining number of hat artisans in Japan, Mizuno Milliner is committed to nurturing the next generation of talent and fostering a community around this valued craft.

Headquartered in Sumida, Tokyo, Mizuno Milliner continues to deliver products that bring joy to wearers, proving that a well-made hat can truly enhance any outfit.

For more information, visit their official website at Mizuno Milliner.