KAI Hat & Head-piece Competition 2026 Welcomes Rie Arui as Judge

Global cutting tool manufacturer, Kai Corporation, is thrilled to announce that Rie Arui, founder and designer of RIEFE JEWELLERY, will serve as a prominent judge for the KAI Hat & Head-piece Competition 2026. This exciting competition celebrates innovative designs and creativity in headwear, with the theme this year being "Enthusiasm."

Since its inception in 2022, the KAI Hat & Head-piece Competition has encouraged designers from all skill levels to present their unique styles and interpretations. This competition is spearheaded by Kai Corporation, based in Tokyo, which has over 40 years of experience in manufacturing cutting tools, specifically sewing scissors.

Rie Arui, recognized for her exquisite craftsmanship and artistry, brings a wealth of experience to the judging panel. Joining her are Nobuki Hizume, a celebrated Hat & Head-piece designer based in Paris, Yuya Nara, a renowned hair and makeup artist, and Yo Suzuki, CCO and CMO of Kai Corporation. The diverse expertise of the judges promises to create a vibrant and stimulating environment that will inspire budding designers.

Competition Details

The first round will shortlist applicants based on submitted designs. Selected individuals will receive ¥20,000 in production support to bring their headwear pieces to life. The grand prize winner, chosen in the final judging round, will earn an impressive package worth a total of ¥1,500,000, which includes fashion training, Kai sewing scissors, and an opportunity for a media interview.

This year’s competition features both a hat category and a headpiece category, with special awards numbering two in total: the "Best Hat Special Prize" and the "Best Headpiece Special Prize," each offering ¥50,000 to the winners. Overall outstanding creations will be recognized with awards, while entrants will also receive certificates of participation.

Rie Arui expressed her excitement about being a judge, stating, "I am truly honored to be given this valuable opportunity. I am looking forward to encountering outstanding works of creativity!"

About Rie Arui

Rie Arui studied gemology at GIA and mastered fine jewelry techniques in Paris. After gaining experience with various domestic brands, she launched her own brand, RIEFE JEWELLERY, in 2018, driven by the concept of "Beauty of Strength." Her designs intricately combine natural stones with structural forms, showcasing her unique vision in jewelry and accessories. Rie’s portfolio includes notable collaborations, including her contributions to the Yohji Yamamoto HOMME / FEMME Collection since 2021, where she plays a pivotal role in designing runway pieces.

Judges’ Backgrounds

- Nobuki Hizume: After graduating at the top of his class from the Bunka Fashion College in 2004, Hizume moved to Italy where he presented his collections as a designer for an underwear manufacturer. Later, he returned to work on headpieces for various stage productions and musicians, cementing his reputation as an esteemed hat maker in France after receiving the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 2019.
- Yuya Nara: Known for his work at Tokyo’s SHIMA salon, Nara provides hair and makeup services for numerous international artists and celebrities. He is also recognized for his diverse involvement in fashion events.
- Yo Suzuki: Widely known as a creative director, Suzuki oversees marketing and design at Kai Corporation while also engaging in promotional projects across various platforms.

Competition Guidelines

The theme for this year’s competition, "Enthusiasm," encourages participants to delve deep into what ignites their passion and creativity. The only rule is that the designs must be headwear that can be worn or adorned.

Applications will be accepted from May 19, 2026, until August 12, 2026, at 23:59 Japan time. Designers can submit their works online through the official contest website.

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Kai Corporation has proudly established itself since 1908 in the city of Seki, Gifu Prefecture, which is renowned for its high-quality blades. The company specializes in a variety of cutting tools and has evolved over the years to include beauty tools and kitchenware. For inquiries, please contact: