New Collection | ooie
ooie's works have been the most popular products at our pop-up shops. Every customer is attracted by them! They're often stunned to hear that they're made with paper.
Yes, that's right - it's all made by paper!
First, let me offer a short introduction. Mizuhiki is a traditional Japanese knot. The artist uses Washi (traditional Japanese paper) to form a very thin line by hand, before layering glue on top and waiting for it to dry. Mizuhiki encompasses many different types of knots, and each type (and color) conveys different feelings. Mizuhiki, thus, can be seen in many different situations, from weddings to funerals; in all cases, they are a way to convey the sender’s feelings in a subtle and elegant way.
Mrs. Hayashi, founder of ooie’s accessories line, was born in Nagano. Her family has been making Mizuhiki for generations. Growing up in this environment, Mizuhiki became a very normal part of her life; while many Japanese people see Mizuhiki as specific to special occasions, Mrs. Hayashi came across them every day.
After Mrs. Hayashi had her own children, she noticed more and more opportunities growing in Nagano. She decided to start a new accessories line within her family’s ooie brand, using traditional Mizuhiki skills to “paint the seasons” and create accessories that reflect the nature around her. Mrs. Hayashi seeks to take these traditional skills and elevate them to the next level.
Mrs. Hayashi’s concept is taking Mizuhiki as a base and combining it with modern design to create accessories. She leverages natural materials to form beautiful traditional knots; no matter the season or the occasion, her works are always a good fit.
Let us introduce these products!
❶ Tamamusubi
Traditional Mizuhiki knots, formed by hand into a small ball knot. The clasp at the back is a small pearl. Cute and elegant, perfect at any age.
Five colors, surgical stainless steel.
❷ Shiki no tane
A Tamamasubi knot, shaped like a snow crystal, hanging off an elegant metal wire. Accompanies you no matter how you move.
Five colors, two types of wire: brass or 14k gold filled. Different material types have a different price.
❸ Haru no ame
Meaning “spring rain”, the golden line drops gently like the misty drizzles of spring. It closes with a Tamamasubi knot. The pearl at the bottom glistens like a rain drop on a leaf. Whether a formal occasion or a casual night out, these earrings are perfect anytime.
Two colors, 14k gold filled.
❹ Awaji
Awaji is a type of Mizuhiki knot. It’s typically used in the context of weddings; when guests give newlyweds a gift, they often give money in a white envelope tied with a traditional Awaji knot. The lines of the Awaji knot form circles around each side, appearing almost like an infinite symbol. This conveys the notion that the newlyweds can be happy and together forever.
Ooie uses this happy vibe to make an earring that can be worn at anytime. No wedding necessary – anytime, any mood, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Two colors, two types: surgical stainless steel or 14k gold filled. Different material types have a different price.
❺ Renzoku Awaji
A longer version of the Awaji knot. Elegant and chic, wear it anywhere, anytime.
Two colors, two types: surgical stainless steel or 14k gold filled. Different material types have a different price.
❻ Daki Awaji
Similar in shape to the traditional Awaji knot, but with a different design. Daki means hug in Japanese; in this design, the Washi wraps around itself warmly and snugly.
Two colors, surgical stainless steel.
❼ Crystal
A fancy gold frame on the outside, Mizuhiki material on the inside. The Washi paper is transformed into an elegant graphic. Approximately 2cm, it accompanies any outfit, offering it a unique and different vibe.
Two colors, 14k gold filled.
❽ Petit Crystal
Petit version of Crystal, about 1cm. Two colors, 14k gold filled.
After seeing all these cute accessories, people are often surprised to learn that paper can do so many things. Compared to other materials, paper offers a more delicate, sophisticated feeling, paired with a beautiful aesthetic.
For more information, please see here!
Photo Credit : Kotoha Hayashi