"I want a tie!" 👔 The story behind the birth of the tie

Hello everyone. This is Kazu Murakami from Ay. There are days when I am fascinated by the cityscape dyed in autumn colors 🍂

Today, I would like to share the story behind the creation of Meisen ties and some heartwarming episodes with our customers.

Four years ago, I decided to convey Isesaki Meisen in a new way, and started Ay, which upcycles Meisen and transforms them into clothes and accessories. Before you know it, we're already in our fifth year. Thank you to everyone who has purchased Ay items so far.

When we exhibited at a department store for the first time, a male customer purchased a haori gown. As we talked about various things, I received a request: ``I want a Meisen tie!'' This person often wears a tie at work or at wedding receptions, and said, ``I wish I had a tie that would allow me to feel and convey the local culture in my everyday life.'' is. I sympathized with such a wonderful idea and enthusiastically said, ``Please let me make it!''

However, as they proceed with their proposal with the factory, an unexpected incident occurs...!

``The width of a kimono is not wide enough for a tie.'' Ties are usually cut diagonally from a wide piece of fabric, so it turned out that the width of Meisen's kimono was simply not long enough. Everyone at the factory said, ``It might be difficult...'' and the plan came to a standstill.

Some time later, I had the opportunity to speak with the male customer again. At that time, I received another request saying, ``I really want a Meisen tie,'' and I decided to ``somehow make it happen!'' We devised patterns and production methods and consulted with several factories so that we could make the kimono width. Finally, we found a factory that could cooperate with us, and the sample was completed!

And the long-awaited Meisen tie is finally here!

Four years ago, we were able to deliver one to a customer who told us they wanted a necktie. I will never forget the smile on your face when you were happy.