Join the Exciting Global Challenge: CLASSICS the Small Luxury Design Award 2026

CLASSICS the Small Luxury Design Award 2026

CLASSICS the Small Luxury, a pioneer in the handkerchief industry based in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, will launch the 6th edition of the Design Award 2026 on November 3, 2025. This award aims to encourage creativity by inviting designers from around the world to submit their unique handkerchief designs.

Background of CLASSICS the Small Luxury

Founded in 2003 under the concept of “a modest luxury that fits in the palm of your hand,” CLASSICS the Small Luxury is operated by Blooming Nakanishi Co., Ltd., established in 1879. Leveraging extensive expertise in textile product planning and sales, this specialty store creates original handkerchief designs each season by combining traditional techniques with modern aesthetics.

Through collaboration with numerous artists, CLASSICS has been able to broaden the appeal and potential of handkerchiefs. By supporting artists and emphasizing the intimacy of design, they started the Design Award in 2020 to celebrate creative expression. Now entering its sixth iteration, the award encourages participants to express their personal takes on the theme “YUM YUM.”

Design Theme: YUM YUM

The theme “YUM YUM” invites participants to encapsulate their own interpretations of ‘deliciousness’. The moments we feel 'delicious' come in countless forms: from the inviting scent of a warm meal to fond memories from childhood, when sweetness enveloped us. It might be represented through colors, sounds, or delightful gestures. Deliciousness transcends taste and encompasses all senses. Participants are encouraged to translate their personal interpretations of ‘YUM YUM’ onto a handkerchief.

Submission Details

- Submission Period: From November 3, 2025, to January 31, 2026 (Japan time).
- Prizes:

- Grand Prize: ¥100,000 (approximately $663) and commercialization of the design, available at CLASSICS stores and online.
- Runner-Up: ¥30,000 (approximately $199) with similar commercialization opportunities.
- Special Jury Award: Winning designs will be produced as handkerchiefs if recommended by the jury.

- Theme: YUM YUM
- Design Specifications: Submissions must be a 45 x 45 cm square design in JPEG format, with high-resolution specs (300dpi), RGB color mode, within a 6MB limit. Hard copies will not be accepted.
- Eligibility: Open to individuals, companies, or groups, regardless of age, gender, occupation, or nationality. Entries must be previously unpublished.
- Entry Fee: Free

Judging Panel

Judges include renowned figures from the design community such as Kanako Kajiwara (KAJIHARA DESIGN STUDIO), Takashi Saito (Griffon), and Kaori Goto of Blooming Nakanishi.

Announcement of Results

Winners will be announced in mid-April 2026.

About CLASSICS the Small Luxury

CLASSICS the Small Luxury specializes in handkerchiefs, brought to life by Blooming Nakanishi’s commitment to delivering understated luxury. Handkerchiefs are more than just fabric; they encapsulate diverse emotions and artistic flair. The brand continuously seeks to evolve, creating exquisite pieces through thoughtful design and high-quality materials.