Beautiful, One-of-a-Kind Bags Born from Kimono Obi.
“add color” is a handmade label that fuses traditional Japanese beauty with modern sensibility.
Our theme: Add color to your daily life.
In a world of disposable fashion, we aim to bring a drop of artistry to the everyday.
Each piece is designed to complement your daily life with elegance and meaning.
Rooted in the rich culture and refined aesthetics of Kyoto, every obi is hand-selected by the designer through visits to local kimono shops. From sourcing and design to cutting, sewing, and finishing—every step is done by hand.
Each creation is one-of-a-kind. We let the unique character of each obi guide us, transforming it into a bag like no other—elevated into a truly singular work of beauty.
Encounter with Kimono Obi
My first encounter with kimono obi was when I was still a child. My grandmother had a habit of carefully organizing the kimonos stored in her wardrobe.
Watching her do this so often, I found myself captivated by the elegance, charm, and delicate beauty of the kimono obi, even with my young, impressionable mind.
Upon closer look, each obi revealed a completely unique expression. The designs and weaving techniques were unlike any other, making each piece one of a kind. I am driven by a desire to blend the timeless allure of kimono obi with modern fashion items, sharing their beauty with as many people as possible.
Commitment to Craftsmanship
Our remade bags are carefully handcrafted, one by one, by skilled artisans.
The process of transforming an obi into a bag involves a great deal of effort and time. From selecting the perfect obi to cleaning, cutting, and sewing, every step is done entirely by hand.
Through this meticulous process, we strive to bring out the inherent beauty of each obi and give it new life as a timeless item that can be cherished for years to come.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
We value environmentally friendly and sustainable fashion.
In today’s world, where mass production and waste dominate the fashion industry, we have chosen the path of “reuse.” By remaking old kimono obi that were destined for disposal, we create beautiful, unique bags.
Kimono obi are heirlooms that carry a rich history and culture, passed down through generations. However, many of them are forgotten over time, left unused in storage or discarded altogether.
By giving these obi a new life, we aim to preserve tradition while offering items that seamlessly blend into modern lifestyles.
add color
Bag Designer
Kana
Born in 1984, originally from Osaka and now based in Kyoto.
Inspired by her mother’s advice—“Sewing is a lifelong skill”—Kana taught herself the craft and steadily honed her techniques. In 2015, she began formal training under a fashion designer and pattern maker, specializing in women’s shirts. Her designs, known for their simplicity and refinement, quickly gained recognition across various circles.
Later, she worked at one of Kyoto’s most renowned textile brands, where she deepened her expertise in handling high-quality fabrics and mastering precise tailoring techniques. After gaining valuable experience, she launched her own brand.
Now based in Kyoto, Kana creates one-of-a-kind bags made from vintage obi (kimono sashes), with a deep appreciation for their textures, colors, and historical nuances. From selecting and purchasing each obi, to designing, cutting, sewing, and finishing every piece, she handles every step herself. Her work lies at the heart of add color, where traditional Japanese textiles are reimagined through a modern lens.
Media Director
Take
Born in 1980, Kyoto-born and based.
Drawing on years of experience in publishing and sales, Take oversees the full spectrum of creative direction for the brand—everything that conveys the world of add color beyond the products themselves. From visual design and content editing to media planning and scheduling, he leads all aspects of external communication.
His role spans across web design and management, social media strategy and execution, print materials like flyers and posters, product photography, video editing, and copywriting. He ensures that every message is thoughtfully crafted and effectively delivered.
With a business-minded approach, Take also works on customer acquisition funnels and long-term branding strategies. Moving seamlessly between creativity and logic, emotion and structure, he builds a solid foundation for the brand’s continued relevance and appeal.
Believing that every piece of communication should have intention, he carefully brings out the stories, values, and cultural context embedded in each product. His mission is to transform that essence into compelling, tangible expressions that resonate with the audience—balancing strategy with beauty, always honoring the brand’s unique vision.