Uniqlo Debuts Vintage Clothing Pop-Up in Tokyo's Harajuku Fashion District
In its first venture into selling used clothing, Uniqlo is upcycling used items refurbished in unique ways and offering them at a new pop-up store in Tokyo.
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On October 11, leading casual clothing brand Uniqlo launched a limited-time pop-up store in Tokyo's Harajuku district. The pop-up sells used Uniqlo brand clothing items that have been given a fresh twist. This represents a first for Uniqlo, as the company steps into the vintage fashion market.
The store marks the beginning of the company's endeavor to promote a circular economy through the reutilization of secondhand clothing. Carefully selected high-quality used clothing items are on offer. The pop-up targets the younger generation with a growing environmental consciousness. Located in Harajuku, known for its array of vintage clothing shops, the store will be open until October 22.
Vintage with a Unique Twist
The store offers two distinct clothing categories. The first is used garments on which Uniqlo employs proprietary dyeing and washing techniques to create a vintage-like feel. The second category features Uniqlo clothing from the past that is carefully inspected and cleaned for resale at affordable prices.
Shoppers can select from a range of 12 different items, including fleece jackets, T-shirts, sweats, chino pants, and more. Prices span from ¥1,000 to ¥3,990 JPY ($7 to $23 USD). The store maintains an inventory of 400 to 500 items.
Most of Uniqlo's clothing items receive annual updates based on customer feedback. But preferences for styles and textures vary across generations, with some customers seeking older versions. At this store, patrons can purchase items like fleece jackets from 20 years ago at roughly one-third of the original price.
Dyeing of the used items is carried out by Komatsu Matere, a company based in Ishikawa Prefecture renowned for its unique technology that captures the distinct vintage essence. The dyeing process involves four different colors: blue, gray, red, and green.
A spokesperson for Uniqlo emphasizes, "Even when the same green dye is applied, the underlying color and different textures of the used clothing produce a uniqueness in each piece."
Additionally, those wishing to add a personal touch to the vintage garments can have patches added. The service offers 18 different patches at a price of ¥500 each. The patches add another element of originality, giving customers a truly one-of-a-kind Uniqlo experience.
Giving Back
A portion of proceeds from this limited-time store are to be donated to the Shibuya Ward Social Welfare Council. The council supports initiatives aimed at fostering the healthy development of children in Shibuya Ward.
Uniqlo has offered recycling of all of its products since 2006. The company also donates some of the collected used clothing items to refugee camps and disaster-stricken areas. The vintage clothing featured in the pop-up store is carefully selected from collected used clothing that is in excellent condition.
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