A collection point for a project creating suits from unwanted kariyushi wear opened on the 23rd on the second floor of San-A Urasoe West Coast Parco City in Urasoe City. The project is led by Kenichiro Koyama, owner of “Yanbaru Hostel” (Kunigami Village, Okinawa Prefecture). Alongside displays of the suits produced, the space features artworks made from clothing slated for disposal. For a limited time until the 26th, visitors can exchange brought-in kariyushi wear for ¥500 worth of San-A gift certificates. Approximately 20 pieces of kariyushi wear are needed per suit. Those bringing in 20 or more pieces can pre-order one of the suits for ¥25,800 (excluding tax) on a priority basis.
Reservations for general sales are also being accepted.
The project began in late May and has collected about 3,000 pieces of kariyushi wear so far. An event held for four days in July at Urasoe’s Parco City attracted 626 pieces and generated significant interest. Suits made from used kariyushi wear have been trademarked as “OKINAWA SUITS”. Koyama encouraged visitors, stating, “Discarded kariyushi wear can be transformed into such stylish suits. We want many people to wear them. Please come to the store, see them, try them on, and experience the quality of these suits.” In late October, a new store will open at EAS Okinawa Toyosaki in Tomigusuku City. Additionally, an event will be held at AEON Mall Okinawa Rycom in Kitanakagusuku Village in November to promote the initiative.
