Considering Japan is known for its fashion trends, my trip to such an iconic country would have been incomplete without buying a stylish souvenir like this unique Japanese silk bag from Katayama Bunzaburo Shoten.

As soon as I spotted this beautiful black bag in Ginza Mitsukoshi I knew I had to have it. It was pointless trying to avoid the inevitable. Proudly displayed in between intricately designed silk scarves, there was something so alluring about it. I’d like to think Yoko Ono and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu would carry something similar.

The shop assistant was lovely and even gifted me with two Bai-shibori bracelets (which look uhmazing with any outfit) when I told her I was visiting from the UK.

How to make a Katayama Bunzaburo Shoten unique Japanese silk bag

It’s lovingly crafted using theBai-shibori traditional Japanese method, which involves dyeing the fabric before twisting it into a spiral shape. The final stage is repeating the dyeing process. In case you’re wondering, Bai is a type of shellfish and because this technique achieves a shellfish style appearance, it seems a fitting name.

There are two ways to perfect the Bai-shibori method. To get the style of this unique bag, the Ito-ire sewing process is followed before binding sections with thread.

The hugely popular Katayama Bunzaburo Shoten has an impressive history. Dating back to the Taisho period between 1912-1926, it started as a Shibori (Japanese traditional tie-dye technique) shop.

The bag I purchased is super soft. Elegantly designed in silk, it also features a luxurious gathered leather handle. The lining is deep red for an extra shot of Japanese glamour. It’s the perfect bag to wear during the day or in the evening.

It quickly springs back into shape, too so I don’t have to worry about it getting squashed. Quite handy considering I had to pack it in my suitcase when I left Tokyo!

My Katayama Bunzaburo Shoten bag

If you’d like to know more about my love for Japanese fashion, why not check out my Japanese inspired Look of the Week? You can also see me wearing this unique Japanese silk bag in my latest Look of the Week.

Katayama Bunzaburo Shoten at Mitsukoshi Department Store, £270