In four short years Nanako has made a big impression on the NYC fashion scene, selling in stores in Greenwich village, Soho, The Upper East Side, and Chelsea. Now a regular at Artists and Fleas, you can get it on the action right here in Brooklyn.
A&F: Tell us about the style of your clothing.
Nanako:Our line includes high quality tops,tunics and dresses for women who want to be fashionable at affordable prices. Our style is young and fashionable, and very versatile. You could coordinate a dress with a cardigan and wear to work, or a top with slacks for dinner, or a tunic with skinny jeans for on the town. It all depend on a girl's style and imagination.
A&F: When did you get interested in fashion?
Nanako: I was seriously involved in classical ballet in Japan and when i was teenager. I didn't realize I was interested in fashion until the director of the company put me in charge of getting fabrics and sequences for all of the new costumes. I was intrigued and inspired by the beautiful costumes she made and I learned how to sew from her.
A&F: How did fashion become a career for you?
Nanako:I came to NYC after three years of studying ballet in London. When I got here I modeled for a few trade shows. That experience made me realized how much I love fashion. In 1999, I got my start in the Industry by working as model and sales person for various clothing and Jewelry designers. I then became a buyer for a chain store in Japan. Then in 2005, I started my own company with my own designs.
A&F: What inspires your designs?
Nanako:I enjoy traveling and looking at different fashion styles around the world. When I lived in London I traveled most of western Europe, Norway and Israel. I continue to travel twice a year to Japan and Hong Kong. I also enjoy finding different fabrics and matching them with my styles. I love playing with colors and prints to create unique styles.
A&F:What is in the future for Nanako?
Nanako: For now I'm selling at Artists and Fleas along with few other flea markets throughout the city. I participate in street fairs throughout Summer. Eventually, I hope to open up my own boutique. Hopefully in next year or two.
You can find Nanako and see it for yourself every Saturday and Sunday at the Indoor Artist and Designer Market from 12-8pm.
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