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Takaokaya's "Second Life" initiative aligns closely with the Japanese concept of "Mottainai (もったいない)." "Mottainai" is a term that encapsulates the idea of regret over waste and reflects a deep respect for resources, both natural and cultural. It encourages mindful consumption and emphasizes the importance of cherishing and making the most of what one has.
By repurposing traditional Japanese heirloom garments into new products like Kangu, Takaokaya also exemplifies the spirit of "Mottainai" by preventing these valuable cultural artifacts from going to waste. Instead of allowing these garments to remain tucked away and unused, the "Second Life" service transforms them into practical and beautiful items that can be enjoyed in daily life.
Obi belts collection
Own an exclusive piece of Japanese artistry and heritage.
Select your favorite piece of vintage obi belt and let us create a charming, statement Ojami Cushion for you!
Featuring an exquisite Genji Clouds (as appeared in Tales of Genji picture scrolls to signify a change of scene) pattern embroidery that gives it an ethereal and refined appearance.
This vintage obi's color palette is composed of soft, muted shades of silver, gold, and beige, creating a harmonious blend that feels both luxurious and serene.
The shimmering silver clouds over the woven floral patterns create a mesmerizing visual story that captures the essence of elegance and timeless beauty. The gently shimmering surfaces, the interplay of various intricate patterns, light and shadow and different textures, add depth and richness to the fabric.
This is a rare piece of obi belt that features Ainu pattern made up of large, stylized floral motifs framed within rectangular panels, accented by intricate border details. The Ainu are an indigenous ethnic group primarily residing in northern Japan.
The dominant red color immediately draws attention, exuding energy and passion, while the intricate traditional patterns provide a rich, cultural depth. The weaving is so fine and intricate that the patterns look like they were printed on by wooden blocks.
The deep reds, accented by black, brown and gold, create a visually compelling contrast that would add a pop of color and sophistication to any interior. The strong, symmetrical floral motifs lend a sense of traditional beauty and elegance, making it not only a functional centerpiece but also a statement of art.
This obi belt is a stunning example of traditional Japanese textile art, featuring intricate circular floral medallions set against a luxurious golden background. The medallions showcase detailed floral motifs, likely chrysanthemums or peonies, which symbolize longevity, nobility, and prosperity
in Japanese culture.
The gold base color, often associated with wealth and celebration, is complemented by subtle accents of white, cream, and hints of orange, creating a harmonious and radiant effect. Crafted using elaborate weaving technique, the obi combines smooth textures with raised, shimmering details that catch the light beautifully. The intricate patterns and use of metallic threads highlight the exquisite craftsmanship, making this obi a work of art rich in cultural significance.
This vintage obi belt features a stunning combination of bold floral motifs, including apricot blossoms and peonies, framed within geometric hexagons on a luxurious golden background.
The flowers symbolize longevity, elegance, and prosperity, while the geometric patterns represent balance and harmony.
The vivid colors—reds, oranges, greens, blues, and white—contrast beautifully with the shimmering gold and black accents, creating a vibrant and dynamic design. Crafted using intricate brocade weaving techniques, the obi’s texture is rich and tactile, enhancing its visual
appeal to radiate sophistication and modest opulence.
This vintage obi belt features a graceful and flowing design characterized by large, swirling arabesque patterns, known as Karakusa, in soft, warm tones. The prominent scrolls and leaf motifs, rendered in shades of orange, gold, and pale green, elegantly curve across the fabric, creating a sense of movement and fluidity. The Karakusa are set against a background made up of traditional patterns like Seika waves and Kikko tortoise shells that adds a delicate texture without overpowering the main motifs.
The weaving technique used combines smooth, satin-like surfaces with slightly raised embroidered outlines, giving the patterns a gentle, tactile dimension. The soft and vibrant color palette evokes a sense of calm and refinement. The overall effect is both harmonious and visually captivating, with the gentle sheen of the fabric enhancing the elegant curves of the design.
Learn and experience Kutsurogi - the Japanese Art of relaxation, with your beloved Ojami Cushions. Below are some of our favorite ways to relax with the Ojami... try our ways or find your own sweet spot for relaxation with your beloved Ojami and share with us!
Unlike ordinary cushions, the Ojami is designed to be three-dimensional and is hand-stuffed with cotton by our craftsmen to ensure greater volume and fluffiness all over. The Ojami Cushion, being thicker, helps to elevate the bottom so you can sit more comfortably and relax.
To prevent the Ojami from going flat easily and to give support for a good sitting posture naturally, we created a three-layer structured inner filling. We selected a special urethane which is used as the core, which is then wrapped with a cotton pad, to create exquisite firmness and thickness.
Middle stitches are applied to the center of the cushions to keep the cotton filling in place. The contours achieved by this stitch, naturally take the form of your body when you sit or lie down on the Ojami, to provide absolute comfort and rest.