tokny Magazine

Aki Kano, a New York based accessories designer cut my eye when I was net-surfing the other night. Her profile is like a girl’s dream. In a early age, she was interning at iconic fashion brand such as Isaac Mizrahi, Cynthis Rowley, Donna Karen Collection and Michael Kors. But that’s not it! She also have worked at “W” magazine, “Marie Claire” magazine, “Glamour” magazine and PR at Celine.
That blow me out! I got so curious about her that made me email her with couple of questions.

tokny: You have a degree in fashion design at FIT. What made you decide to do bag brand? 

Aki Kano: I studied Fashion Design and worked as an apparel designer for 8 years, but just switched into accessories at DKNY Jeans International the last 2 years.  I realized I found my niche and home with accessories and handbags.  So, after almost 10 years in the industry, I wanted to start my own bag brand– simple, yet artful designs, classic designs with a little twist, and not so much bells and whistles such as a lot of hardware. 

tokny: Any of the working experience at the magazines and the brands helped you with designing your collection?

Aki Kano: I think working at Marie Claire in the accessories department and W in the art department got me into designer, “high-end”, well made, beautiful bags, shoes, belts, and leather goods.  All the places I’ve worked have influenced me.  I learned a traditional, and very classic, “preppy” aesthetic when I worked at Ralph Lauren Collection, but also I learned a more street savvy, downtown aesthetic when I worked for DKNY Jeans International.  I’ve combined all the influences as inspiration and memories when I design my bags. 

She also told me that she may do small leather goods and belts going forward.  That’s what I wanted to hear! Love the small leather goods.
Anyways, If you want to ask more about her bag, she will be participating the FASHION’S NIGHT OUT at Pieces boutique in Brooklyn!
Also on the FNO, Pieces will be giving out their new magazine, “Pieces” featuring stories about fashion in Brooklyn, Fall makeup and fashion trends, an editorial on the owner Latisha Daring’s new clothing line Ashtyn, as well as profiles of all the designers that are taking part.   They will have cocktails and cupcakes and they will have artwork from Brooklyn artists, paintings as well as sculpture displayed.  They will debut their “open call” documentary film showing clips of all the designers being interviewed. 

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Aki Kano
http://www.akikano.com

Pieces boutique
671 Vanderbilt Ave at Park Pl
Brooklyn, NY 11238
Hours: Sunday: 12pm – 7pm
Monday: 12pm – 6pm
Tuesday – Saturday: 11am – 8pm
http://www.piecesofbklyn.com/