Sisters on the move

Founded more than a decade ago by sisters Klyduan, Pimdao, and Matina Sukhahuta, Sretsis – :sisters” spelt backwards – is now an international brand that’s proved popular with such celebrities as actress Rachel Bilson, singer Beyonce and socialite Paris Hilton
Now the brand is out to conquer Japan with the recent opening of its flagship store in Tokyo and the launch of two new brands, “Sincerely Yours”, and “Little Sister”.
The Tokyo store is located in Aoyama, close to the popular shopping centre of Omotesando and has been renovated to resemble an inn where guests check in for a magical shopping experience.
The beautifully crafted front doors are customised with stars and the classic Sretsis insignia while the interior is decorated with elegant furniture including a velvet sofa. Sretsis Inn strives to offer a sense of wonderment and surprise and, just like the selection of clothing offered, an air of the classic but with an ever-present twist.
To celebrate the opening, Pimdao’s showcased her spring and summer 2015 designs for the Stretsis label at the recent Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Tokyo. Dubbed “The Runaway Rum”, the event received an exuberant reception from Japanese fans and press alike.
For this season, Sretsis collaborated with a number of first-rate artists. The post-punk rock band Plasticzooms created exclusive tracks for Sretsis, and gave a rocking performance during the runway presentation. The hair and make-up for the show was another highlight. Creating updated versions of classic rock looks exclusively for the show were Nars international lead make-up stylist Sado Ito and Shiseido’s Hirofumi Kera, who was responsible for the rock ‘n roll mermaid locks. After the lights went down on the show, a procession of guests and press made their way to Sretsis Inn, where the three founding members engaged in an opening ceremony involving the flying of the Sretsis flag.
While Klydeun is kept busy marketing her sisters’ artistic designs, she also managed to help them to launch two new brands. Earlier this year, Pimdao designed her new luxurious loungewear and nightwear line, “Sincerely Yours”, which is so far available only at Siwilai store on the 5th floor of Central Embassy. The collection comprises essential day and night wear for women, men, and kids with luxurious details from piping, trimming, and crafted buttoning. There are loose-fitting cocktail dresses, comfortable matching track suits and double-breasted night jackets. A monogram service is offered to add a personal touch whether on detachable collars, pyjama shirt pockets, or baby bibs.
A daisy leopard print mimics the print of yesteryear and brings panache to every wardrobe. Pimdao hopes Sincerely Yours will become synonymous with special moments enjoyed by the entire family.
For her part, Matina, the youngest of the Sretsis clan, has been inspired by a childhood full of tenderness, love, laughter and smiles for her children’s line. Dubbed “Little Sister” brand, it offers a full range of a age-appropriate kids clothing and accessories that underline her belief that children are not little adults, and that their clothes should highlight their untainted innocence while incorporating spirited practicality and tasteful details.
All the fabrics are culled from Sretsis extensive archives and include the brand’s well-loved signature prints. Specially designed to suit little misses aged 2 to 8, “Little Sister” relies on classic children’s wear silhouettes and timeless ruffles and bows, with single and separate pieces for everyday use that once mixed and matched could lighten up any formal functions. Short dresses, bloomers, overalls, tutus and other fun items are affectionately made by a little sister who’s very much still a child at heart for happy girls and adventurous parents.
“Little Sister” operates on a non-season basis and the unique, hand-sewn dolls and quilts are commissioned to craftswomen as a way to increase their income. Part of the proceeds from the sales will be donated to children related charities annually.