Oak Shibuya Grand Opening Party

Tokyo is indisputably one of the fashion retail capitals of the world. Here, the temples of fashion are thronged by eager worshippers. Fashion retail in Tokyo is full of speed and movement—it can resemble a controlled melee, with young and old patrons rushing through the streets with their once coveted but now purchased items. Against this backdrop is one of the most anticipated store openings of recent times, New York City’s Oak, debuting its first Tokyo location right in the heart of the neon city of Shibuya.

Oak was started in Brooklyn, New York over a decade ago and has been growing exponentially since—the Shibuya store is the 5th Oak location globally, with the retailer boasting two stores in New York and a store in both Los Angeles and Paris.

Oak carries a varied roster of American and Parisian designers. However, the Tokyo store focuses on Oak’s own in-house brand, offering a complete visual and lifestyle solution of cool luxury basics cast in a variety of subdued and monochromatic tones—items range from t-shirts, sweatshirts and dresses to sunglasses, shoes etc. Owners Jeff Madlene and Louise Terline who were on hand to speak to Fashion One at the grand opening have an appreciation for the energy and exuberance of Japanese street style. In their New York stores, intrepid and stylish Japanese consumers would often be leaving the store with bulging shopping bags. From this, the pair recognized the creative synergy that would be achieved by bringing the Oak experience directly to the Japanese fashion savvy. The party was an animated celebration attended by a diverse clique of Oak’ophiles, press and celebrities. A highlight of the evening was the appearance of Mykki Blanco, the American rapper and performance artist.