
LOEWE’s 'Crafted World' Arrives in Tokyo
If you happen to be heading to Japan this Spring, then you'll be keen to hear about this landmark event in luxury fashion and craftsmanship. Spanish heritage brand LOEWE is set to unveil its first major brand exhibition Crafted World, in Tokyo from the end of March 2025. Following a successful debut in Shanghai in 2024, this immersive showcase will open in the Harajuku district, celebrating the house’s 179-year history of innovation, artistry, and dedication to handmade excellence.
Taylor Russell’s custom LOEWE look at the 2024 Met Gala: 3D moulded bodice is printed to create a trompe l’œil effect, mimicking wood marquetry, and draped skirt in silk crepe marocain.
Founded in Madrid in 1846 as a collective of leather artisans, and by 1905 earning the title of Supplier to the Spanish Royal Court, LOEWE has cemented its status as a leader in fine craftsmanship. Since 2013, under the creative direction of Jonathan Anderson, the brand has redefined contemporary craftsmanship by blending traditional techniques with avant-garde aesthetics. Crafted World serves as both a tribute to this legacy and an exploration of LOEWE’s enduring cultural dialogue with Japan, where they began their expansion beyond Europe with their first international store in 1973.
LOEWE Fall Winter women’s runway collection, 2024: Coat in cashmere with handcrafted walnut wood collar and real silver gilding.
Designed alongside renowned architectural studio OMA, Crafted World takes visitors on an immersive journey through LOEWE’s archive, and up to their present day collections. From its Spanish roots to its presence on Parisian runways, and the creative inspirations behind its most celebrated collections, the exhibition features interactive installations that transport visitors into the visionary world of LOEWE, showcasing collaborations with Japanese cultural institutions and artists. Highlights include partnerships with Studio Ghibli and Kyoto-based ceramics studio Suna Fujita, illustrating LOEWE’s deep appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship and storytelling.
LOEWE Fall Winter women’s runway collection, 2024: Melon clutch with embroidered beads and resin.
As part of this commitment to craftsmanship, LOEWE launched the LOEWE Foundation Craft Prize in 2016 to celebrate master artisans worldwide. Strengthening LOEWE’s connection with Japan, Crafted World Tokyo will feature a specially curated selection of works and architectural interventions that highlight this dedication. These include a documentary on the Ōnishi family, master artisans of Kyoto who have been crafting ceremonial Kama tea kettles for over 400 years, as well as pieces by LOEWE Foundation Craft Prize finalists Tanabe Chikuunsai IV, Moe Watanabe, and Genta Ishizuka. The exhibition will also showcase works by artists featured in LOEWE’s annual Salone del Mobile showcase, including ARKO, Hafu Matsumoto, and Jirō Yonezawa.
Dedicated to the joys of making by hand, this ambitious travelling exhibition will be on view at Crafted World Tokyo from 29 March to 11 May, 2025, at 6-35-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo. Entry is free, but reservations are required.
For those passionate about art, fashion, and craftsmanship, Crafted World promises an unforgettable glimpse into the creative universe of LOEWE.
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Further Information:
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Image Credits:
Lead Image : LOEWE Fall Winter Women's Runway Collection 2024: Asparagus Clutch bag with embroidered beads, felt and leather.
All images courtesy of the LOEWE archives.