Yahoo Finance My Luxuries: Hanako Maeda
Tokyo-born Hanako Maeda spent most of her childhood in New York City starting her own brand, Adeam, in 2012, and combining the two cities with clean lines and quirky tailoring. Here, the designer shares the luxuries she would rather not live without.
What does luxury mean to you?
Luxury, to me, means the serene moments when I’m alone reading or taking a walk, when I can reflect on my thoughts and appreciate the beauty around me.
Who is your favourite designer and why?
I love Dries Van Noten’s work - his use of colour and the fabric treatments are truly unique and one of a kind. I also respect Azzedine Alaia for his unwavering vision and his impeccable craftsmanship.
Your favourite piece you own and how did you come by it?
I have just launched handbags for ADEAM, and the Mini Half Moon Clutch that I made for autumn/winter 2018 is one of my favourites.
I love the versatility of the piece because you can wear it as a pouch for the day to keep your necessities inside a tote bag, and also as a clutch bag on its own for the evening. Versatility is key for me, both for ready-to-wear and accessories.
Which shoe brand do you swear by?
For a classic pump, I love Gianvito Rossi. I like the simplicity of his designs, and his 55 mm kitten heel is great because I can’t walk in stilettos.
Kitten-heel pumps, £535, Gianvito Rossi
Do you have a favourite piece of jewellery, or is there one you have your eye on?
For my birthday gift last year, my mother gave me the Tasaki Balance pearl ring, and it’s become my go-to piece. I love the simplicity and elegance.
Balance signature in yellow gold with Akoya pearls, price on request, Tasaki
Do you collect anything in particular?
I collect different editions of Haruki Murakami books - in both Japanese and English. It’s interesting to read the same story in a different language, as it is a completely different experience.
What’s your ultimate luxury escape/experience/journey?
Escaping to a warm climate when it’s freezing cold in New York. I love St. Barts because it can be a quiet escape or a fun weekend with your girlfriends.
Dream house?
My dream is to one day live in a traditional Japanese-style Sukiya-zukuri home. Whenever I visit the Tawaraya Inn in Kyoto, I feel like I’m welcomed back home, and can truly relax. It would be a dream to come home to such serenity everyday.
Which restaurant or chef would you choose to make your ultimate luxury dinner?
One of the best dining experiences I’ve had lately is at Chef Natsuko Shoji’s private restaurant Été in Tokyo. Her restaurant is her private salon, and she only takes one group a night, up to four guests.
The uni tart at the beginning of the tasting menu and her signature fruit tart, Fleur d’Été are highlights of the dinner. She would definitely be my top choice for my ultimate luxury dinner.
Are there any of life’s ‘luxuries’ that are necessities for you?
A piece of dark chocolate and a nice glass of red wine at the end of a long day.
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