(626)333-5572
Hello! My name is Esther and I am a 3rd generation Japanese-American. I have been crafting as a profession since 1986 when I started "A Touch of Nature"
18 years ago I applied the art of Chinese macrame to jewelry made from old Asian coins and serpentine stones. The "Asian" look was just coming into vogue and my crafts and I were turning Asian.
In 1998 with the passing of my parents, I inherited several vintage kimonos with my family crest (mon). Being Japanese I valued the beauty of the kimono but being very American I knew I would never wear them. Being the crafty person, I restyled my kimonos into short jackets to wear to my art and craft shows. To my surprise customers wanted my jacket. So was the birth of my "Now and Zen" line of clothing made entirely from vintage Japanese kimonos.
In developing my clothing designs my thought has always been to keep the kimono as pure as possible. What I mean by this is I do not cut up the kimono fabric and use it patchwork style or add new or other material into my creations. My customers love their one-of-a-kind wearable art pieces and can appreciate the beauty of the original kimono. My hope is that their purchase becomes an heirloom that can be cherished and enjoyed by generations to come.
My macrame jewelry is still available at all my shows.
|
|
In 2002 I became a designer and sales rep for Y&S fashions. I work closely with Connie Moonlight. This is a line of clothing made from fabric from Japan called "chirimen", a rayon acetate blend. Many of the styles and designs are Asian inspired. The fabric is wrinkle resistant, washable, very comfortabe and great for travel. Please click on Jackets to view available styles. I will have this line of clothing at most of my shows.
link Jackets
|
NOTICE
I am currently not designing/making kimono ware. All Coats, Jackets, Long and Short Vest and 3-pc outfits are currently 40-70% off. (call or e-mail for measurements and a fitting) Now is the time to get your one-of-a-kind vintage kimono outfit. These are heritage items that can be enjoyed by generations to come.
link Kimono
WINTER SHOW SCHEDULE
February 24,25,26 - Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts. (tentative -if accepted more info to follow)
If you know of a show, boutique, tea, fashion show or charity event that I can consider kindly e-mail me.
I am currently booking home and office shows. 10-15% of sales can be earned by the host, given to charity of choice or given back to your guest. Call or e-mail if interested.
Please return to site at a later date: I will post my Spring Shows as I'm accepted.
|
JANUARY CLEARANCE SALE
sale prices will be on stock on hand. So order early to make sure you get your style and size.
See various links for sale items and prices.
Tax and shipping will be added to sales price. To save shipping you can arrange for a pick up in Hacienda Heights, Torrance or Gardena
NEW
I have opened an Etsy store at www.etsy.com under Now and Zen clothing.
link accessories
NEW - Canvas Totes
NEW - white or beige shawl
COMING SOON -
Fasinator (small hat on a headband) with an Asian Flair - great for bad hair days. Yes, only our hairdressers knows but sometimes we need to cover those roots. You will be surprised on how many people will compliment you hat. Get one in every color!!
CA sales tax will be added to all orders. You can save shipping charges if you can arrange a pick up at my condo In Torrance, or my home in Hacienda Heights.
CUSTOMER LIST
Please click on ladykimono@roadrunner.com (below) and send me your e-mail address to be on my mailing list. Or add your e-mail address with your name in my guest book. You will be notified about SALES and show reminders. E-mail or call if you would like to place an order. Hope to see you at one of my shows.
ladykimono@roadrunner.com
Kindly add any public comments into my guest book.
View Guestbook Sign Guestbook
Thank you for viewing my site. Please return to view periodic updates, sales and new additions.
|
|
