#Japan #Tokyo #Kanako Kajihara #ALUMEA #COQ KANAKO

Kanako Kajihara's Exciting New Exhibition

Renowned textile designer Kanako Kajihara is set to launch her new apparel brand and present her inaugural exhibition at the 3E STUDIO Minami-Aoyama in Tokyo, from September 16th to 18th, 2026. This event marks a significant milestone for Kajihara as she unveils her debut collections for KANAKO KAJIHARA and ALUMEA. The exhibit features the latest fashion trends, alongside a rich history of material development through collaboration over the past two decades. Alongside the showcases, visitors will also learn about the innovative efforts of KK.lab, a research and development platform created by Kajihara herself.

On the very first day of the exhibition, a special talk titled "How to Breathe" will happen featuring Kanako Kajihara and Mai Ichinose, a Paralympian turned model and actor. This conversation will be moderated by the well-respected fashion journalist Chizuru Muko, who is well-versed in the sustainability narrative of the fashion industry. The discussion will delve into the significance of breath and comfort in creation and active lifestyles, capturing the essence of what it means to find harmony between body and material.

An Engaging Experience Awaits

Attendees at the exhibition can expect to physically interact with the collections. Both KANAKO KAJIHARA and ALUMEA will display a wide array of their initial offerings, meticulously designed with original materials sourced from various regions across Japan and India. Visitors can explore items ranging from innerwear, knitwear, shirts, jackets, and denim by KAJIHARA, to elegant stoles and bandanas developed in collaboration with Indian manufacturers.

The exhibition is designed to highlight the stories and craftsmanship behind each material, providing a backdrop that celebrates both the roots of textile production and the dedication involved in material innovation. An accompanying section titled "KAJIHARA DESIGN STUDIO history" offers insight into Kajihara's journey and the inspiration behind her textile creations.

The exhibition is free of charge and does not require reservations for general viewing; however, for the special talk event and the opening reception, prior reservations are mandatory.

Special Talk Details

Event: Special Talk「How to Breathe」
Date: September 16, 2026
Time: 17:00 - 18:00
Speakers: Kanako Kajihara (Textile Designer) & Mai Ichinose (Model & Actor)
Host: Chizuru Muko (Fashion Journalist)
Location: 3E STUDIO Minami-Aoyama (within the exhibition space)
Reservation: Required

Kanako emphasizes, "When discussing materials, I often feel that the skin knows before the mind does. Before understanding with my brain, my hands and skin recognize comfort. I am excited to see what words emerge from my conversation with Mai, who has long engaged with her own body, as we explore the nuances of comfort from our unique perspectives. Join us to touch the fabrics and experience these sensations firsthand."

About Kanako Kajihara
Born in Sapporo, Japan, in 1973, Kanako Kajihara graduated from the Textile Department at Tama Art University. Her career spans significant roles in textile design and she holds a master's degree in Fashion & Textile Design from the Royal College of Art in England. In 2006, she established the KAJIHARA DESIGN STUDIO, focusing on material development collaborations with local artisans. The recent establishment of KANAKO KAJIHARA, INC. aims to drive the narrative of well-being through materiality.

About Mai Ichinose
A multi-talented figure, Mai Ichinose was born in Kyoto in 1997. She began swimming at a young age and represented Japan in eight events at the Rio 2016 Paralympics. Since retiring from competitive swimming, she has ventured into public speaking, modeling, and acting, gaining prominence with her diverse portfolio of work.

To keep up with the latest updates, follow her on Instagram: @kanakokajihara_official. The exhibition promises to be an enriching experience for fashion enthusiasts and those interested in the knowledge behind sustainable materials. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the captivating journey of Kanako Kajihara and her innovative designs!