The Azuma bag is a traditional Japanese accessory made by sewing together pieces of fabric. Its standout feature is its foldable design, reminiscent of a furoshiki, which makes it exceptionally portable and user-friendly.
The history of the Azuma bag dates back approximately 400 years, to 17th-century Japan. The term "Azuma" originates from an old word that referred to the capital city at the time. This design emerged when Japanese people, inspired by Western-style bags, began crafting their versions using furoshiki or tenugui cloths. The Azuma bag’s construction is straightforward, requiring minimal stitching, and is crafted by folding rectangular fabric. Its compact, foldable nature makes it highly practical for carrying and easy to store when not in use.
At Shirokuma Kimono, we have reimagined the Azuma bag using fabric scraps left over from crafting our separate kimonos, as well as repurposed materials from kimonos and obi belt that could not be fully remade.
Each Azuma bag is handcrafted from exquisite silk kimono fabrics, ensuring that every piece is a one of a kind creation.
The lining is also made from leftover kimono fabric, reducing waste and resulting in a truly sustainable product.
Wide shoulder straps are designed to minimize strain, offering both comfort and secure usage.
Featuring a comfortable shoulder-carry design and an ideal size, the Azuma bag is perfectly suited for everyday use.
The clutch bag originated in the early 20th century in Western countries as a small, handleless bag designed for women. Over time, it has evolved into a widely used accessory appreciated by people of all genders for its versatility in both formal and casual settings.
Defined by its slim, minimalist design, the clutch bag offers compact storage for essentials and can easily be placed inside a larger bag for added convenience.
Our clutch bag incorporates traditional Japanese elegance by using surplus Obi Belt fabric for the exterior and leftover Kimono fabric for the lining.
The vertical width of the obi belt is preserved, creating a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical.
The clutch bag can be used as a main bag, a bag-in-bag, or a secondary bag, adapting to various needs and occasions.
With its simple and refined silhouette, the clutch bag seamlessly complements both formal and casual settings.