YASU MICHINO DESIGNER AND FOUNDER
MY CHILDHOOD DREAM
Born in Tokyo, having spent my formative years in Beijing, Hong Kong, Boston and New York and trained in Paris, my journey has been an exploration of the world and of myself. Michino is a reflection of this: creations born from following my dreams and encounters of different cultures, people and places.
From the first time I visited Paris as a child, I had a dream: Live in Paris, speak French and work as designer. Everything I did from that point on were preparations to make that dream come true. I learned French as a second language, I studied art history to have references of inspirations. I moved to Paris as a fashion student first in hopes of finding a job afterwards.
One day I woke up and realized, I was living my dream. From Tokyo to New York, then to Paris, "Follow your dream" is more than just a motto — it has always been my guiding force.
AN UNEXPECTED START
I never set out to design handbags, in fact, my journey began with a surprise.
My first professional experience in 2005 was at Sonia Rykiel on Boulevard Saint Germain. I was hired for a womenswear internship, but on my very first day, I learned the position had been given to another designer. Instead, the Collection Director asked if I would consider working in the accessories studio. Until that moment, designing handbags had never crossed my mind, but I said yes immediately, embracing the unexpected opportunity.
That spontaneous "yes" launched a career I've dedicated entirely to the art of leather goods.
Since that day, I’ve had the honor of holding designer roles at iconic houses like Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, and Delvaux. Even after launching Michino in 2014, my work continued as a consultant designer for prestigious Parisian maisons including Balenciaga and Cartier. My portfolio includes a diverse range of styles, includes everything from classic and edgy to sportive and bespoke luxury handbags.
MICHINO TODAY
Michino today is the culmination of all these experiences. It is also my design laboratory to make the best of my Japanese roots and my training in Paris. To sum it, I call it French elegance and Japanese simplicity. In the earlier years of Michino, the collection was an exploration of different styles, it took time to understand my own creative direction. Having worked with so many different Parisian maisons, I was accustomed to adapt styles but for Michino, it was about being yourself. Sometimes, that's the most difficult exercise.
Michino bags are elegant and also casual, functional and simple, easy to use but sophisticated to accompany for special occasions as well. I am interested in the highest quality materials from specific sourcing and superior craftsmanship. I believe it's this versatility and the quest for excellence that make Michino, a unique independant brand.