LOEWE is bringing its first-ever major exhibition to Japan. Crafted World invites visitors on an imaginative, interactive journey through nearly two centuries of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. From 29 March to 11 May 2025, the exhibition will take over 1,300 square metres of space in Tokyo’s trendy Harajuku district. Expect immersive installations and curated experiences that blur the lines between fashion, art, and culture.
The latest edition traces LOEWE’s evolution from its humble beginnings as a leather-making collective in Madrid to its current status as a global leader in luxury fashion under creative director Jonathan Anderson. First launched in Shanghai last year, the Tokyo showcase is both a continuation and a heartfelt nod to Japan’s longstanding relationship with the Spanish maison. After all, Japan was the brand’s first expansion outside of Europe in 1973—a cultural connection that has only deepened over the years.
Developed in partnership with the acclaimed architecture firm OMA, Crafted World unfolds across a series of conceptual, thematic rooms that explore LOEWE’s inspirations and collaborations over the decades. For instance, ‘Born from the Hand’ tracks the house’s leather-working heritage, showcasing archival pieces and first editions of its signature bags, such as the Amazona, Flamenco, and Puzzle. Architectural models, vintage advertising, and even costumes created for Rihanna, Beyonce, and the 2024 Met Gala will also be displayed.
Next, ‘Welcome to Spain’ pays tribute to the brand’s roots through the textures and terrains of its homeland. Picture seashells, forest flora, and terracotta hues reimagined into products like raffia handbags, unconventional accessories, and ceramics by Pablo Picasso—reminding us of the house’s deep-rooted ties to art and nature. In ‘The Atelier,’ visitors step behind the curtain into the meticulous world of bag-making, discovering the tools, techniques, and unique methods behind every stitch, including caviar embroidery, origami modelling, and 3D printing.
True to the Maison’s playful spirit, it wouldn’t be LOEWE without a little whimsy. Enter ‘The Castle Room’, a surreal space featuring a massive, life-sized version of the ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ bag—fans of the 2023 collection will be charmed by this Studio Ghibli-inspired touch. Meanwhile, runway devotees will love the ‘Fashion Without Limits’ exhibit, where 54 standout looks from Anderson’s tenure are set against contemporary sculptures and artworks that echo his bold silhouettes and avant-garde design.
But this isn’t just a fashion spectacle; it’s a love letter to craft in all of its forms. The ‘United in Craft’ chapter highlights the LOEWE Foundation initiatives worldwide, notably its support of Japanese artisans such as the 400-year-old kettle-making Onishi family and ceramicist Suna Fujita. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, ‘Unexpected Dialogues’ delivers a magical, multi-sensory wonderland of collaborations, which includes a floating floral garden by Tokyo-based creative studio edenworks—all designed to spark your next Instagram post.
Tickets are free, but reservations are required via LINE or online.
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