[Tokyo] A Must-Read for Shoe Lovers! 5 Recommended Shoe Stores in Harajuku/Omotesando
The Harajuku/Omotesando area is Japan's fashion trendsetter. In this article, a shoe-loving writer picks up recommended shoe stores in Harajuku/Omotesando. A variety, ranging from ones selling sneakers to those selling leather shoes and high heels, are introduced so you can be sure to find a pair that you love.
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1. Design Your Own Shoes at White Atelier by Converse
First up is this shop that is the talk of the town! White Atelier by Converse is a place where you get to experience designing your own shoes. At this store, a stark white ALL STAR is customized in the color and design of your choice. Why not get a Converse like no other made as a souvenir from your trip?
First, select the base model from between All STAR HI and OX.
Next, choose a design from the sample book and have it printed out. There are so many designs, such as ones created collaboratively with artists as well as ones with "Converse" written in Japanese, so it may be a difficult choice.
Then, select the shoe laces and charms, and you\'ll be able to take your shoes with you in about two hours.
2. KICKS LAB, with a Wide Selection of Sneakers by Nike, Adidas and Other Brands
KICKS LAB is the place for anyone who loves sneakers. It is a chic shop decorated in tones of black that feels almost too luxurious to be a sneaker shop.
The sneakers here are not just casual ones but include many with edgy designs! You\'ll be able to find a unique design that you are unlikely to see anyone else wearing. The trend for 2019 is high-tech sneakers with thick soles and a futuristic design. They may look quite edgy, but choose basic colors like black and beige and they can be wonderful accents to your everyday fashion.
3. OMOTESANDO NIPPON MADE with a Selection of High-Quality Shoes Representing Japanese Craftsmanship
Onitsuka Tiger\'s NIPPON MADE is a series that was developed to "showcase the marvels of Japanese craftsmanship to the world." These sneakers are made with superb Japanese craftsmanship, using the best materials and with attention to detail, and are distinguished by a simple and graceful beauty.
Among the many products lining the shelves, highly recommended is the MEXICO 66 DELUXE with kumadori (style of kabuki makeup used for violent roles) as the motif. Look closely and you\'ll see that the red and blue lines are embroidered onto natural leather. Of course, the inside of the shoes are also sewn carefully for optimum comfort.
4. DIANA, Specializing in Women\'s Bags and Shoes
If you\'re looking for high heels and other dress shoes, go to DIANA. It has a wide selection of simple yet elegant shoes and bags. It is popular for both the price—between 10,000 and 20,000 yen for high heels—and the shoe and bag designs that are trendy and yet easy to work with various outfits. You\'ll find items that you can wear to the office as well as out on the town.
The Harajuku branch of DIANA is close to the fashion mall, Laforet Harajuku, so you can look for shoes to go with clothing you purchase at Laforet.
5. The Leather Shoes Specialty Shop, World Footwear Gallery
The leather shoes at World Footwear Gallery, which specializes in men\'s leather shoes, all have wonderfully deep colors! There is the fear that leather shoes can rub and hurt, so at World Footwear Gallery, a staff member will take the time to discuss the best shoes for the shape of your feet and also match them to your tastes. If there is any rubbing when you try a pair on, be sure to discuss with the staff.
If you want even more control over the details that go into your shoes, go to the WFG Maestro Order Salon on the second floor. Here, you can ask to have semi-customized or fully customized shoes made depending on your budget.
How was it? Harajuku/Omotesando is a trendy area where the fashion-conscious gather. It is a great place to see what people are wearing. Refer to this article to enjoy the town and find the perfect pair of shoes for you.
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.