Issey Miyake's Bao Bao Concept Will Open Its First U.S. Store in New York
Georgia Wray Norsten — May 31, 2025 — Art & Design
References: wwd
The Bao Bao concept from Issey Miyake is officially landing stateside, with its first U.S. store set to open in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood on June 12. Located at 126 Prince Street on the corner of Wooster, the boutique will spotlight the brand’s iconic geometrically structured bags -- known for their sculptural triangle-based designs that shift from flat to three-dimensional forms with use.
Launched initially as a standalone business in 2010, Bao Bao Issey Miyake now operates 48 stores across Asia. The new 513-square-foot U.S. flagship embraces Japanese design sensibilities, featuring plaster-finished walls, a hammered aluminum table, and a ceiling installation inspired by the communal warmth of an 'irori' (a traditional hearth). To mark the debut, the store will launch a SoHo-exclusive collection called 'Lucent Love,' featuring red-hued bags folded to resemble hearts -- a nod to the brand’s artistic roots and transformative designs.
Image Credit: Issey Miyake
Launched initially as a standalone business in 2010, Bao Bao Issey Miyake now operates 48 stores across Asia. The new 513-square-foot U.S. flagship embraces Japanese design sensibilities, featuring plaster-finished walls, a hammered aluminum table, and a ceiling installation inspired by the communal warmth of an 'irori' (a traditional hearth). To mark the debut, the store will launch a SoHo-exclusive collection called 'Lucent Love,' featuring red-hued bags folded to resemble hearts -- a nod to the brand’s artistic roots and transformative designs.
Image Credit: Issey Miyake
Trend Themes
1. Three-dimensional Fashion - The rise of apparel and accessories that transform from flat to 3D forms showcases dynamic design methodology expanding in the fashion sector.
2. Cultural Design Infusion - Integrating traditional cultural elements into modern retail spaces is gaining popularity, enhancing consumer engagement through immersive experiences.
3. Exclusive Collection Launches - Launching store-exclusive product lines provides unique value propositions for consumers, driving foot traffic and brand loyalty in competitive markets.
Industry Implications
1. Luxury Fashion Retail - Luxury brands are increasingly adopting concept store models to offer localized, immersive shopping experiences that reflect brand heritage and innovation.
2. Retail Interior Design - Designing retail spaces with unique cultural and artistic elements is transforming traditional retail environments to be more experiential and inviting.
3. Fashion Accessories - The demand for innovative fashion accessories, like shape-shifting bags, highlights a shift towards functional yet fashionable product development.
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