Upcycled kimonos from Africa to debut in Japan at pop-up event

A unique collection of upcycled kimonos blending Japan’s traditional attire with Africa’s second-hand clothing scene will be showcased and sold at “Kimono Meets Africa: Reimagining Kimonos,” a pop-up store hosted by SHIFT80. The event will take place at Palette Gallery in Azabu-Juban, Tokyo, from February 15 to 20.

SHIFT80, an ethical creative collective operated by Kotatsu Inc., is bringing its acclaimed African upcycled kimono collection to Japan for the first time. This collection combines Japan’s traditional kimonos, which are worn less frequently, with Africa’s vast influx of second-hand clothing. Through collaborations with talented African designers and artisans, these garments are given a new life.

Africa is one of the largest importers of second-hand clothing in the world, receiving vast amounts of discarded garments from Japan and other parts of the world. SHIFT80 aims to breathe new life into both unused kimonos from Japan and second-hand clothes in Africa by transforming them into unique, sustainable fashion pieces.

Beyond the one-of-a-kind upcycled kimono items, the event will also feature a range of ethically produced goods, including pouches and bags crafted with African refugees and upcycled paper earrings from Eswatini in Southern Africa. Visitors can also participate in a mini tea ceremony featuring African tea, offering a moment of relaxation while experiencing the cultural fusion firsthand.

The gallery is a three-minute walk from Azabu-Juban Station. It is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., except on Feb. 15, when it opens at 1 p.m., and Feb. 20, when it closes at 5 p.m. Admission is free, and reservations are not required.