Chako: One-of-a-kind Obi And Kimono Clutch Bags

Written by Michelle Foody on Thursday, 18 February 2010 10:03

Geishas may be legendary for their show-stopping beauty—and of course for those fabulous hosting skills—but let us not forgot the most important of all: their gorgeous fashion. While a full-scale silk kimono and obi (waist wrap) may not fly at your 9 to 5, Sofisticati has found a lovely way to carry that Far East luxury with you all day long. Check out Chako, a line of adorable silk handbags being whipped up by a mother-daughter duo from Japan.
Chako- Folded Envelope

These petite purses double as either a clutch, or a chain-strapped shoulder bag, and each is crafted in Japan from the highest-quality silk. Each one-of-a-kind Chako creation is made from an authentic Japanese obi (for the thicker silk exterior) and kimono (for the interior lining, using a lighter silk to compliment the outside). Pattern options are plentiful, as is the color palette, offering absolutely gorgeous designs that put to shame the usual blah “C”s and “G”s found speckling far too many women’s handbags. Chose an intricately woven cherry blossom pattern, or opt for the beautifully stylized diving crane, all are lovely.
Chako Tokyo - La Petite Hangetsu

Chako was accidentally born back in 2003, when Kazumi Lomri asked her mother Fusako Nakanishi to craft a handbag from an antique silk obi she scooped up at a market in Tokyo. Their little silk creations quickly found their ways to the crooks of innumerable fashionista’s arms and are now sold in boutiques from Hong Kong to London to New York. The price point is well below most labels, hovering at just under $300, making them an absolute steal. So pour yourself a cup of tea, channel your inner Geisha and browse the options online at chakotokyo.com. Cheers!
Chako Tokyo - Niji Cardholders