Aoyama Flower Market, operated by Park Corporation (Minato, Tokyo), has launched a plant-dyed fabric series called "hanairo" starting in March. The line was developed with the concept of making the flowers and plants that florists encounter every day feel more accessible to people's daily lives.
The "hanairo" series features fabric products dyed with natural dyes derived from branches and non-standard flowers that would otherwise have been discarded at production sites — giving these materials new value through upcycling.
Branches and Non-Standard Flowers Put to Use
Central to the series is Aoyama Flower Market's connection with its key production partners. For "hanairo," these partner farms contributed plant resources that had previously gone unused. Cherry branches pruned in Hitachi-Ōmiya were used for the "Sakura" colorway, while non-standard pansies from Miyabi Flower Garden became the dye source for the "Pansy" colorway. The result is an upcycled product that wastes nothing nature has to offer.
Note: The origin of flowers and plants used for dyeing may change.
A Dyeing Technology That Resists Fading
Natural dyes extracted from plants and flowers are not well suited for dyeing synthetic fibers such as polyester. To fully draw out the deep tones unique to natural dyes, the towel handkerchiefs are made from 100% domestic cotton.
While fading and discoloration from sunlight and washing have long been challenges with natural dye products, "hanairo" employs a dyeing technology that preserves the original colors of the plants while achieving strong colorfastness and durability against aging.
Soft Texture Born from Thread Dyeing and Natural Dyes
Rather than dyeing the finished product, the threads themselves are carefully dyed first, and then woven into high-quality towels by craftspeople in Imabari. Because plant-based dyes are gentle on fibers, the result is a remarkably soft texture that holds even after washing.
Each handkerchief is priced at 1,430 yen (tax included) and measures W25×H25 cm. Whether as a treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for someone special, the handkerchiefs carry the colors of the season.
The "hanairo" towel handkerchiefs are available at Aoyama Flower Market stores nationwide and through the official online shop.
