Zenbird Editorial TeamRECYCLE & HANDMADE petitjiman opened its first permanent physical store in Kichijoji, Tokyo, earlier this year, selling social-good, cute items. They curate a selection of used clothing, ethical accessories, and fair trade food products designed to create a positive social impact through everyday shopping.
Their product selection prioritises environmental and social well-being. Focusing on used and vintage garments, the store promotes a circular economy that reduces the environmental burden associated with producing new clothing. The interior is designed to be inclusive, ensuring easy access for wheelchair users and those with strollers. Furthermore, the clothing layout is gender-neutral, allowing all customers to browse and select items freely.
As part of quality control, all used clothing undergoes thorough cleaning, maintenance, and inspection before being placed on the shop floor. Items with visible damage are remade to extend their lifespan, ensuring that unique vintage designs remain wearable.
Petitjiman also serves as a bridge to international social initiatives. It stocks products from Boneca de Atauro, an ethical brand based in East Timor. Boneca de Atauro provides employment to individuals with limited literacy and single mothers, who produce hand-embroidered bags using treadle sewing machines.
In addition, petitjiman launched its original accessory brand, mehimehi, along with the store’s opening. These accessories use traditional East Timorese fabrics and are manufactured by irodori, a brand managed by the Setagaya Ward Tamagawa Welfare Workshop. A portion of the proceeds from this brand will be returned to support local projects in East Timor.
The name petitjiman reflects the idea that valuing one’s own small joys and satisfaction leads to self-love, and invites all to visit.
[Reference] PR Times (Japanese)
