A Weekend in Kyoto, with Reina Ogawa Clarke and Tess Ayano.
On a springtime séjour in Kyoto, Japan, stylist Reina Ogawa Clarke wore our lightweight cashmere layers in the new spring palette, including pink and vicuna.
Photographed by her friend and collaborator, Tess Ayano, the two women shared their thoughts on the change of season, the rituals they uphold and their approach to travel attire.
What does this time of year — the transition into spring — mean to you?
Reina: Hay Fever. I hate it! I want to say more beautiful things, but this is the reality in Japan. But there's a special feeling, too, the air getting warm, and people seem happier.
Tess: Spring is my favourite season. I was born on the last day of summer, so there's a melancholic quality about me. At summer's end, you feel sad, but this time of year feels more optimistic, and I love it. On the first warm day of the year, everyone is out in the streets enjoying the park, and I love that optimistic feeling.
Do you have a favourite spring ritual or tradition you look forward to?
Reina: It's a contradiction because of my point about hay fever, but I do like going to Shinjuku Gyoen with my husband, Ashley. It's a beautiful park, and we pack a bento, take some books and a blanket and relax under the trees.
Tess: I think Japanese people are good at switching up their closets. We call it koromogae, which means the seasonal changing of clothes. The Japanese are very sensitive and in tune with the seasons—you can see it in their food, art, and clothing. I consider myself a big minimalist, and I like spring cleaning and creating more mental space; this comes from my Japanese roots.
How do you like to dress at this time of year?
Reina: I wear lots of silk dresses with knitwear. It's comfortable but not too casual and still looks kawaii. I used to wear black often, but now I mostly wear colour, which makes me feel bright. I like being like a flower. I have many red clothes in my wardrobe; it’s my favourite colour.
Tess: Classic denim, for sure. I have a couple of pairs of jeans that fit me perfectly. I wear them with a colourful knit. I love throwing on a big, comfy knit this time of year.
What’s your go-to way to wear knitwear or transitional pieces as the weather shifts to warmer weather?
Reina: Knitwear is my favourite thing: it brings me comfort. I don't like feeling cold, so I always bring knits wherever I go — no matter the season. I wear them around my neck and use them as pillows… These knits were surprisingly light, very soft, and comfortable, too. It was chilly when we shot in Kyoto, so I was glad to wear them.
Do you dress differently when travelling versus being in your daily routine at home?
Reina: I dress up when I go out to meet friends or go to work and I tend to dress more for comfort when I travel. At home, I dress very casually. I have 'on' and 'off' clothes.
Tess: I would say so. I'm a light packer. I never check my luggage in; I'm very minimal and always think about how to rotate clothes. A good knit goes a long way. I like to keep it simple.
