It's been a year from massive earthquake took place in Japan on 3.11, 2011. That day, I remember I was in Paris with Tatsugo and Yuki for buying. I was checking Twitter as usual in the morning, and the time line flew on the screen with unusual speed. That told me something happened in Japan. I figured out that there was a big earthquake in Tohoku. We had to leave the hotel for the first appointment, and at that point, the Tsunami had not reached the island yet.
：Thanx, Mark!
Please excuse me for this very personal post, but I received a little package by Mr. LB of Martin Margiela the other day, and I just had to share. I opened up the white boxes with question marks in my head, and... !!! It was a doctor's coat for a baby, just like the ones they wear in the Maison Martin Margiela atelier!! I was speechless and so happy from their amazing surprise. I called Mr. LB just a few seconds later and he told me that the doctor's coat was made by the Artisanal department...
When I think back, Martin Margiela has always been part of my life since I started out as a buyer for Aloha Rag. In 2003, Tatsugo took me to Paris to see the SS collection. It was a great show, and made my eyes literally tear up. Also, another memorable show for me was the one for the 20th Anniversary collection... Yes, Martin Margiela is on the top of my list and all time favorite (and a respected fashion masion), so this gift is very special and touching to me...! Thank you Mr. LB for this beautiful gift, it will be my family's treasure that we will remember forever.
P.S: When I cleaned out my house the other day, I found some old pictures... perfect timing!! Good times... I used to bring a film camera, not digital camera, on my buying trips. Here is a young Henrik Vibskov ( top middle) and me.. NYFW is finished, and now, time to move on to the Paris collections! Please keep your expectations high for the fresh breeze the new additions to the buying team will bring!!
: Thanx, Mark!
Here are a couple of my personal purchases from this season... They are Martin Margiela, as always! I tended to collect leather goods rather than buying clothing 
As a buyer for Aloha Rag, I've been flying many times a year for a long time now, and I have gotten used to sleeping on the plane. The amount of good sleep I can get on the plane is very important to have a buying trip full of energy !! I am a very sensitive sleeper who easily wakes up with only a little noise, so I always take an eye-mask and earplugs with me. Now, I even need these two things to sleep at home, and I now finally own my "new favorite" leather eye mask from Martin Margiela Line 4!
The eye-mask retails for $295, and is made in dark brown lamb leather on the surface, and rayon on the inside. The buckle of the elastic band is gold and silver, and the mask is a "replica" from 2000s' London. The replica tag is a tricky thing... Should I leave it cuz I love it and it's a part of the piece, or cut it off since it covers my nose and could possibly bother my sleep...? Also, I have to find reliable leather cleaning service in Hawaii for this mask to take a good care of it...
Probably, this is more likely a product you would like to know about... this seasons AIDS Tee! This T-shirts will be uploaded on the website soon, and if you would like to get your hands on this sooner, you can email to love@aloharag.com and make sure it's going to be yours... Please note that we're still waiting for Men's Small size to be in stock, but Men's M - XL and Women's Small is available for $75 
P.S: Thomas, the singer from my favorite band PHOENIX, and Sopia Coppola just had their wedding! Sophia is wearing a gorgeous Alaia dress
with Francis Coppola, her father, on the left... Congratulations!!
This past weekend was the last time to see the much talked about the exhibition, Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty at New York's MET. Whoever I asked that had seen in, said it was amazing. Unfortunately, I did not have a chance to go, so I decided to purchase the book via Amazon, to get at least a little piece of the exhibition...
On the cover is a magic eye type of thing overlaying his signature skull and McQueen's face. The book is very well curated with strong messages throughout, and even from simply looking at the photos, his creations deliver their powerful aura. The whole experience is breathtaking, and I got lost for a good amount of time staring at each page.
: Thank U, Mark.
And... I have one more little thing! This is my personal favorite moment of any show McQueen ever did... I cannot explain why, but it makes my eyes moist every time I watch it.
His death was a deep tragedy, and a shame not only for the fashion scene, but the art world as well. The loss will be forever immeasurable. In retrospect, It was a great honor to say that I saw his creations with my own eyes and had a chance to buy them as a buyer for Aloha Rag. This book is highly recommended for those who could not get to see the exhibition.
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Speaking of great losses, I am really sad that Japanese soccer player, Naoki Matsuda, just passed away about a week ago. He was the player which I really admired for over 10 years now. He sometimes visited Aloha Rag Honolulu, and I remember writing a blog about it "that" day because I was so excited! We will never see a player like him again, so very passionate and honestly expressive in his emotions. I hope his legacy will be passed on to the next generation of soccer players... 
I heard that this Summer is going to be harshly hot all over the world... 
I would like to introduce a refreshing new face at Aloha Rag, Samudra!
Samudra is a collaborative line between two ocean lovers; Sara Beltrán, best know as the designer behind Dezso, and Jennifer Binney, a Hawaii based jewelry designer. The line is inspired by their travels, and the printed pouches might take you back to beautiful memories of your past vacations... One of the designers is always carrying this pouch with her as a clutch, and it can be used as an iPad case if you wish! We have 3 prints available right now, and this Flamingo feather print will be with us soon!
I chose the cute pinkish color, COCONUT SUNSET
： Thanks, Mark
In the pouch, I packed my DITA Verve in bone color, which I've just got this summer and are already in heavy rotation! The other sunglasses are my summer essentials, LINDA FARROW x Matthew Williamson, Henrik Vibskov, and old Ksubi! In Hawaii, sunglasses are a necessity all year round...
PS. 
Big up to Nadeshiko Japan (Japanese Women's Soccer Team) Congratulations!!!
July 1st started a year long celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Aloha Rag We had the anniversary party and ARHI x Converse release party on June 30th at THE WAIKIKI EDITION HOTEL! It was a great mix of people joining us, long term Aloha Rag supporters, locals, celebrities, and old friends! Unfortunately, Yoda was on the buying trip to Paris, but the night was so much fun!
All the way from Thailand, Megumi sent us the flowers, and also Kyoko from 3.1 Phillip Lim gifted us the flowers too! That was so heart-warming to see people showing the support from all over the world...
Jeremiah flew in from NY for this anniversary party, and hosted the special night! Hokulani Bake Shop's Red Velvet cupcakes are our favorite, and we had a giveaway at the end of the party for those who've been supporting our growth over the 20 years. I got a sore throat the day after, I was probably too excited to be part of this great party! Thank you so much for those who coming out for our special night, and those who helped us to made it happen. This is only just the beginning, many more special projects are on it's way for 20th Anniversary..!!
Every season I sneak in a couple personal orders...This season, out of all the pieces I ordered, I am most excited for this vest from Martin Margiela LINE 4! I finally got my hands on something from his famous Driver's Knit series.
It's cotton so that I can wear it in the hot weather here in Hawaii! Also, the vest has the snap buttons on the sides so you can wear it in many ways. Don't worry, we ordered the navy color version of this for you! It will be up on the website soon, so please keep an eye out for it.
Next, I got this black leather egg by Ann Demeulemeester, made in Germany. It is a multi-use egg with tough shell, and can be worn as a necklace or charm for your bag.
Last but not least, I also ordered an initial charm by Ginette_NY. (Please click on the image on the left, it's on the black egg) I was looking for something that I can wear all the time, so this charm was perfect
If you are interested in this charm or the egg, we can place an order... Please feel free to ask questions regarding these items via email!
love@aloharag.com
: THANKS, MARK!!
Update : I also purchased this ring by Martin Margiela, which is just uploaded to the website today, for my Valentine day gift! It's such a statement piece. I always start a new season with a piece of Margiela...
A Happy New Year everyone!
Finally new year has come in here Hawaii... Hope all of you had a nice countdown and this 2011 will be a joyful year for you. For the first post of the year, I would like to introduce the gold item for a good luck... Please take a look below, the pair of Martin Margiela Artisanal Leather Gold Boots ($3480).
Collaging the Layer of the 12- 23 Kt gold plate, this beautiful pair deserves the attantions of the good start of the year. Not only these will give you the presence to your look, but also the soft and sophisticated shine give the perfect look for Margiela's signature style. In addition, the pairs are handpainted by Artisans, so each pairs have different personalities. You will never find exact same pairs... Longer you wear, it will fit perfectly to your foot.
These pairs are produced in very limited quantities, but Aloha Rag New York store has stocked size 41, 42, and 43.
*The display when I went buying in Paris
These boots will be updated on the webstore soon, but if you have any questions, please feel free to call / email us.
Email: love@aloharag.com
Phone: Hawaii 808 589 2050, New York 212 925 0882
fashion blog to a 
soccer player paparazzi site.
Upon perusing a soccer website one of our buyers came across this photo that struck her attention.
The pic prominently displays the 
Beckhams stepping outside. Look a little closer and low and behold there is our dear Yoda peering out from the far left corner!! 
I couldn’t believe my eyes for a moment!
And who is that strange character, arms crossed, standing just behind??
Why, could it be our beloved Keisuke??
The photo 
of Yoda was taken just outside the office entrance of JIL SANDERin Milan, the photo is courtesy of the lovely Chinami.
Well, the Beckhams don’t disappoint. As always, they radiate class and style.♪ If any two people in the world can claim to be the hottest modern super couple this pair has definitely earned it!
Countdown to FIFA World Cup opening~~~~
Thank you very much for your interest in
Luis Morais Bracelets in honor of the 2010 FIFA World Cup
We received great responses from all over the world,
and some country's bracelets were sold out as soon as we posted them on our blog
As I told you about my special order bracelet in my last blog,
here you go! I just received my special order "Spain" bracelet
( 
: photo by Kei-chan, Thanks!)
It is made with powerful Red x Yellow African beads,
with a skull charm that made with feminine rose gold.
Yoda got a Spain as well to be ready to cheer his favorite team!
Because Luis Morais x FIFA World Cup Bracelets are made in mens sizes,
you can use it as an anklet like Yoko does.
She purchased Portugal one 
Here is another idea of how to wear these bracelets.
Seiko wears them layered.
Mammoth beads x rose gold fleur de lis,
other mammoth beads bracelet is with a skull charm,
and a slice diamond with black string...
Luis Morais bracelet can be worn in many different ways.
You can wear a single bracelet, or wear them layered...
you can create your own style with his bracelets!
Please don't miss this special chance to get his bracelets,
and wear it for your new style!!! ( : photo by Mark, Thanks! )
And..,
I visited Lanikai beach last weekend.
Sending you summer greeting from Happy Hawaii with Rainbow!
;
Did you already check
Luis Morais Bracelets in honor of the 2010 FIFA World Cup?
( 
: Photo by Mark!!)
We have started to sell these special bracelets in-store, and
online as well. These bracelets made with African Beads which are called,
"LOVE" beads or "PEACE" beads.
Luis designed them with his iconic skull charm between the selected vivid color
beads for the Tournament in South Africa along with his wishes that
people are equal, and have no boundary.
PEACE UNITY FOOTBALL
These players are my favorite!
And I am going to get The Spain Version of the bracelet,
because I am such a big fan of Silva,
and this is my "special" personal order~~♪
Great news for bag fans!!!
We're starting to carry YSL & Proenza Schouler for FW10.
Arriving soon, the ＹＳＬ icon MUSE bag,
Also, the highly anticipated MUSE TWO！
Not only that, their new collection ROADY
that has been receiving attention by all bag lovers since its debut,
will be coming soon.
And Ladies and Gentleman, attention please!
Proenza Schouler PS1 Bag will arrive at AR soon!
We'll have two sizes: M & L,
three materialas: calf leather, suede and python,
and three colors: Black, Grey and Brown!
Both YSL and Proenza Schouler bags will be available in the AR Hawaii store!
We expect the YSL bags to start arriving later this month or early June and Proenza Schouler bags toward the end of June.
If you have any questions or would like to pre-order these new HOT bags,
please contact us anytime!
Email: love@aloharag.com
By the way, Seiko and I want a MUSE TWO so badly...
This is our next future bag!
We've had very cool weather this season in Hawaii,
but finally... The Sunny day in Hawaii made me smile.
Today, I would like to show you our ARHI staff members favorite
T by Alexander Wang, this is "An Everyday Tee for YOU!
This long sleeve tee is my favorite,
and I own all colors.
It uses thin material, so it's perfect to wear even in the hot summer.
Their new color Army is very refreshing.
We have Tank top and short sleeve tee as well!
This Rib tee uses 100% Tencel,
so comfortable to wear, and also nice to layer up with other tank tops.
And more, DRIES VAN NOTEN's new tee are available on the website now!
It's very much like DVN, it will be your main piece to wear this summer.
this tee for my birthday, a gift to myself!
As matter fact, I'm wearing it today!
If you have any questions about DRIES VAN NOTEN items,
please feel free to contact us anytime!
ALOHA RAG's private line has arrived at our store. Mr.Yoda as a head designer, and the AR designing staff members are working very hard everyday.
This women's blouson ($255) has a hint of military taste with a feminine cut, while using selected accessories that includes zippers.
It fits slightly tight from the top of the body, and changes to a more relax fit towards the bottom. With it's cocoon like shape, and silhouette, it's very comfortable to wear. You can find it in our Hawaii store, and it will arrive in our New York store and on our web-site very soon.
~ A collection characterized by an intense feeling of
poetry and love for timeless beauty ~
We have carried Ｗ＆Ｈ for a long time, and now, we are so glad to introduce to you their Gold Collection this season.
All items are made of 18K yellow & white gold, and high quality 
Diamonds from Belgium.
Please enjoy infinity beauty of their new gold collection.
Please click here to see WOUTERS & HENDRIX GOLD collection...
The below photo was shot during this seasons buying trip to NY at Mason Martin Margiela Showroom. I have a funny story to tell you! This was a display in MMM showroom, it's a pigtail like cell phone strap with hair styling gel. Margiela always has some kind of sense of humor in their display. I saw Tatsugo was doing something in front of their display, he was rubbing his hands together.... I asked him; "What are you doing there?". OMG....
To make a long story short... He thought that the hair gel was a hand sanitizer, and said... no wonder why it's so sticky..... Then he ran to the bathroom after it all.
Anyway, here is some our favorite pieces from their Fall Winter collection. Of course, we love their Boot, and here are some special women's sneaker for New York store + Web exclusive!
And for Men, German emboss sneaker
We are almost half way through the FW10 Women's buying trip, and Yoda will be going to Paris this weekend. I found some great views of Paris and Paris' Collection's at TRANOI HP.
We don't carry many of the brands from the trade shows anymore, but we first discovered Golden Goose at TRANOI's small booth. Since then, we've carried them all year long, season to season. Currently they are one of our most popular brands to date.
Dries Van Noten Mens Spring Summer 2010 collection was held there along with other shows. On weekends, they have a farmer's market in front of the hall. Fashion and daily living are shared in this place. Tranoi has a growing number of visitors and exhibitors. Last year they added the Lourve basement as one of the venues to accommodate the growing number of designers. I heard that there is a special project being organized by ISEM students as a tribute to Alexander Mcqeen during the show (3/5 to 3/8).
Until last year, TRANOI's main hall was Palais de la Bourse（stock market）
It all started with Thakoon x ALOHA RAG party, our buying trip for Women FW10 is almost done half way through... We've been busy with appointments, schedules during the day and we leave the nights for watching the Winter Olympics. We are crazy about the Olympics.
←The photo left is ZAMARI and right is Yuki ♪
We visited BESS yesterday. Their store and office are located formally Keith Herring's Atelier. It's very art deco.
After we visited Golden Goose. Unfortunately, we can't show you any photos from their showroom... but please look forward to see their new collections that's designed with a couple in mind from New York going to Himarayan! Needless to say, their sneakers are just so amazing, and also their mountain boots is a total eye opener. All of us are totally falling love with their boots.
After our appointments, we went to our New York store for a short meeting, and shopping! Yuki bought R13 denim and I got a pair of MM6 high top sneaker!
And then, we went to dinner with Alexander Yamaguchi.....
It was very busy all day long, but we had a really great day ☆
We visited a few trade shows and then it was off to visit 3.1 Phillip Lim.
PS... Yuki and I both wearing MM footwear today!
From our SS10 Season comes DRIES VAN NOTEN and our first order has just arrived at ALOHA RAG 
His SS'10 collection is full of ethnic essence and design inspired from his trip to Indonesia and India. His printing designs are amazing, the colors are batik (dyeing process) that resemble prints designed in jewelry boxes. Worn with mono colored items, these designs make beautiful harmony. You can also accent the ensemble with pearl accessories.
We selected the golden pants from his new collection that shows their first look on the runway. Our SS10 selection of DRIES VAN NOTEN is rare and you can't find them at other shops!
Here is our buying list for SS10
If you have any questions, please contact us anytime!
mail: love@aloharag.com
PS...
I was really impressed during my visit to their showroom. All staff members are so kind. Maybe it's their Belgian hospitality
And also, the lunch was sooo delicious, too!
I can't believe that our MENS FW'10 buying trip is half way through already. I realized that there's not enough time to do things I want to do.
Mr. Yoda will take over our rest of mission, when he arrives in Paris.
I had a great time in New York during this buying season. Here is some great news for you!
We will start to carry knitwear from WENDI REED's, and Robert Geller in our Hawaii and New York store for FW'10. Mr.Yoda fell in love with them so much. We saw Robert Geller himself during our appointment. He is a perfect gentleman, just like his collections. The production of his line is located in Japan, that is why his collections are high quality. We love his second line also which uses sweat materials.
And we'll carry COMMON PROJECTS this season as well.
In addition one of JP brand will start their market, and our AR New York store will sell debut their US collection exclusively. Stay Tuned.
Till then, please look for our new FW'10 collections soon♪
PS..
I had one day off in New York!!! I took these photos on my "One Day in New York".
I visited a Flee market in Brooklyn, and enjoyed gazing at the vintage clothing on display. I'll tell you later what I got!!
It was not enough time to visit to MOMA 's TIM BURTON exhibition, but I saw a Futsal game (indoor soccer), guess what? Who is No.13? (Click a photo above).
After, we had dinner with Alexander Yamaguchi , actually he is Mr.Yoda's long time friend.
I had a really great time.... in New York
