A single stroke that etches the soul. Crafting the national costume that supported the dream of becoming the world’s best.
September 8, 2025, at the Mrs. Unity World competition held in India.
Professional hula dancer YUHKI chose the theme for her national costume: Aomori’s “Nebuta,” Japan’s largest summer festival.
“A promise to my late father: I want to show him me becoming the world’s best.”
Receiving her earnest and passionate wish, I accepted the great responsibility of crafting the costume that would be her battle attire.
The texture of washi paper and the breath of ink, reached through trial and error
The production period was a mere month and a half. To express the giant lanterns of Nebuta, I began by designing the skirt’s framework, applying the structures of hula hoops and folding umbrellas. For the fabric, we selected a special “washi cloth” with the texture of Nebuta’s traditional paper.
With the support of trusted creative partners, we achieved vivid dyeing within the tight schedule. Over this, I applied the ink in a single, decisive stroke—a “one-shot drawing” with no room for retreat. The fabric had no backup; the tension was unbearable, with no margin for error. Yet, it was precisely this extreme state that breathed life into the ink.
To the passion of red, and the moment of joy
The top features the same vivid red as the Japanese flag, with YUHKI-san’s idea to arrange the Nebuta fabric in a happi-style. Paired with a headdress she handmade herself, a one-of-a-kind costume resonating with Japan’s passion and energetic beauty was completed.
Her smile during the final fitting. And then came the news of her remarkable achievement: Mrs. Division “World Winner”.
With gratitude for choosing me as her partner in this important challenge, and with heartfelt respect for her dream come true. Moving forward, Sumizome Artisan Miyuki will continue creating garments that connect the wearer’s emotions to the world.