valveat 81 | Aoyama's New Select Shop, 'valveat 81'

valveat 81 | VALVEAT 81

High fashion style unfolds in an oasis-like space

Select shop "valveat 81"

Step away from the hustle and bustle of Aoyama, pass through a gentle slope, and you'll be greeted by a lush garden created by floral artist Makoto Azuma.──The select shop "valveat 81 (VALVEAT 81)", which proposes a high fashion style, opened on August 28th (Saturday) at the former site of Leclaireur, drawing considerable attention.

Text by OPENERSPhoto by valveat 81

A new shop proposing a modern and playful lifestyle

The shop name "valveat 81" is a coined word from valve at 81. "Valve" means door, and "81" is Japan's country code, signifying "opening the door in Japan."

The selection, fitting for Aoyama where highly sensitive fashionistas gather, includes popular brands from East and West such as "ANN DEMEULEMEESTER," "HAIDER ACKERMANN," "BALMAIN," "Kris Van Assche," "MIHARA YASUHIRO," "RAG & BONE," and "sacai luck," as well as noteworthy brands like "Thomas Wylde," "Todd Lynn," and "CATHY PILL." Furthermore, lifestyle goods from "AESOP" and "LELABO" are also available, proposing a lifestyle that can be enjoyed by those who find the ordinary unsatisfying.

French designer Laura Meyrieu was involved in the interior design, and floral artist Makoto Azuma produced the garden. Under the theme "New dimension garden," Azuma focused on the details of each plant and the spatial narrative of the garden, creating a garden with a new concept that feels both familiar and novel.

Additionally, Ryota Aoki's installation "The King's Chamber" is being exhibited as a limited-time gallery display. This showcases and sells ceramics that are gaining attention in the global art scene.

A permanent gallery is also located on the second floor, currently exhibiting works by Leslie Kee until September 29th (Wednesday).

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"valveat 81 × Ryo" Interview with designer Ryo

From the opening day, "valveat 81" is selling eight collaboration items with actress Ryo. All items are made using fabric from Faliero Sarti in Italy and include cutsews, cardigans, all-in-ones, dresses, and leggings.

── What were your initial impressions when you first heard about this collaboration?

It seems my love for clothes got through to them... (laughs), so I was very happy.

── Why did you choose "High-quality everyday wear for adults" as the theme?

First and foremost, I started by considering that we could use Faliero Sarti's fabric. Since it's a high-quality material, I wanted simple pieces that could be worn with the clothes selected by "valveat 81." With a simple design, I paid attention to making the female form look more beautiful. As a result, the theme became "High-quality everyday wear for adults..."

── What aspects of the design are particularly characteristic of you?

Perhaps it's how the expression changes depending on the wearer's ideas and imagination. I'm a bit greedy... (laughs).

── What are your priorities when styling yourself?

I like playful styling that allows for personal expression.

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── How do you utilize the internet?

It's incredibly convenient! Internet information stimulates my imagination, and I go out to experience things that engage my five senses.

── Finally, do you have a message for your fans?

Please do! Come to "valveat 81" for inspiration.