#Japan #Tokyo #Kanako Kajihara #ALUMEA #KK.lab

Introduction to KANAKO KAJIHARA Inc.

In a significant step for the Japanese fashion industry, textile designer Kanako Kajihara has established KANAKO KAJIHARA Inc., set to launch two new brand lines in September 2026. This initiative will bring her clothing brand "KANAKO KAJIHARA" and her scarf brand "ALUMEA by KANAKO KAJIHARA" to the market, aiming to deliver products that enhance both comfort and well-being.

The Journey of Kanako Kajihara

Kanako Kajihara has made a profound impact in the textile world, previously becoming the first Japanese winner in the prestigious TEXPRINT competition in the UK in 2005. Following this recognition, she founded KAJIHARA DESIGN STUDIO in 2006 and has nurtured relationships with manufacturing facilities across Japan while providing textile proposals to high-end European and American fashion houses. After two decades in the industry, she is transferring from a role of presenting materials to one of creating and selling products directly.

The Vision Behind KANAKO KAJIHARA Inc.

Kajihara's vision is rooted in the philosophy "Material meets well-being" which emphasizes that comfort can start from high-quality materials. The creation of KANAKO KAJIHARA Inc. aims to ensure the longevity and relevance of Japan's textile industries, which face challenges like an aging workforce and lack of new talent. By maintaining production demands and exploring international markets, the brand aspires to create a “cycle of happiness that begins with material.”

In partnership with SEVENRICH GROUP, known for advancing wellness-related businesses, KANAKO KAJIHARA Inc. will foster a sustainable ecosystem where textiles produced through collaboration are celebrated. Kajihara believes that engaging with these materials can awaken emotions, enhance the sensory experience, and inspire creativity.

Product Lines

KANAKO KAJIHARA (Apparel)

Under the brand name KANAKO KAJIHARA, the collection will focus on comfort and liberation of senses, encapsulated in the tagline "LIVING BALANCE – between comfort and elation." This apparel line will feature high-quality materials sourced from various regions in Japan, redesigned with a playful and modern approach. Their inaugural pieces will include innerwear, knitwear, shirts, jackets, and denim, all meticulously crafted in Japan.

ALUMEA by KANAKO KAJIHARA (Scarves)

The scarf line, ALUMEA, draws inspiration from the concept "FROM WITHIN, LIGHT EMERGES." Each piece will narrate a story through diverse textile expressions—colors, patterns, weaves, and embroidery. With the desire for each scarf to be a personal talisman, they will breathe life into daily attire, offering wearers a touch of encouragement. The debut collection for the 2026 AW season is themed "RADIANCE", showcasing dreamy landscapes captured in printed designs.

KK.lab - A Research and Development Hub

Adding to its innovative ethos, KANAKO KAJIHARA Inc. will launch a collaborative research platform named KK.lab. This initiative aims to merge ideas and drive the creation of new values across various fields, continuously enkindled by a sense of happiness. Although multiple co-creation projects are already underway, additional details will be revealed throughout 2026.

Future Vision and Events

As part of their launch festivities, KANAKO KAJIHARA will hold an exhibition showcasing both brands' first collections and the latest offerings from the "COQ KANAKO KAJIHARA". Attendees will get to experience the materials firsthand and appreciate their balance of beauty, functionality, and comfort.

• - Dates: September 16-18, 2026 | Location: 3E STUDIO, Minami-Aoyama, Tokyo
• - Special Event: A talk session will feature Kanako Kajihara and Mei Ichinose discussing the creation and design process on September 16.

Conclusion

This initiative the marks not only the launch of two innovative brands but also indicates a reinvigoration of respect for textile traditions while promoting both local craftsmanship and a modern lifestyle. As Kanako Kajihara forges ahead, she maintains a commitment to delivering products that resonate with comfort and happiness, taking bold steps into the future of fashion.

For more information about her brands, follow the respective Instagram accounts: @kanakokajihara_official for KANAKO KAJIHARA and @alumea_kanakokajihara for ALUMEA.