Hankyu Umeda Main Store Presents Nantucket Baskets: A Traditional Craft Elevating Summer Fashion, Starting July 15

Title: 'Craftsmanship Connects: Nantucket Baskets – From Tradition to New Expressions in Fashion'

Period: Wednesday, July 15 – Monday, July 20, 2026 (National Holiday)

Location: Art Stage, 9th Floor, Hankyu Umeda Main Store ※ Final day ends at 5:00 PM

From July 15 (Wed) to July 20 (Mon, National Holiday), 2026, Hankyu Umeda Main Store will present a special event titled 'Craftsmanship Connects: Nantucket Baskets – From Tradition to New Expressions in Fashion' at the Art Stage on the 9th floor. Featuring works by 16 talented artisans, including instructors from the Japan Nantucket Basket Association, the exhibition showcases exquisitely designed baskets that preserve classical elegance while harmonizing with modern lifestyles and contemporary fashion.

※Image is an illustrative representation of a Nantucket basket.

Timeless Baskets Suitable for Formal Occasions

Originating from Nantucket Island, USA, this traditional craft has long been cherished worldwide for its refined aesthetic—offering a basket bag that effortlessly complements formal attire. The exhibition presents refined new works combining beautiful woods such as walnut and maple, as well as artistic pieces crafted with mammoth ivory, blending the warmth of handcrafting with luxurious materials.

[Complementary Basket Accessories] 6" Round Diddy Bag (Approx. W16 × H15cm, strap length 120cm / Body: 100% cotton, Strap: Acrylic-rayon blend, Hardware: Brass) ¥22,000 Leather Belt: Smooth/Frill (Body: approx. L49cm, W1.5–2cm, Strap: approx. L51.5cm, W0.5cm / Cowhide) ¥13,530 ※Basket sold separately

Customization for Modern Lifestyles

Beyond the baskets themselves, the event offers a wide range of accessories and customizable parts that subtly incorporate tradition into daily fashion. Elegant inner bags (drawstring pouches), leather handles in diverse colors, and miniature baskets that double as bag charms are among the many playful items designed to enrich contemporary wardrobes.

※Image depicts a weaving experience session.

Engaging Workshops for All Skill Levels

Throughout the event, daily hands-on workshops will allow visitors to experience the joy of weaving and crafting Nantucket baskets. Create your own unique piece—such as a palm-sized mini sand pail, pendant, or cool round bangle—under the careful guidance of experienced instructors. A no-reservation, free 'weaving experience' session will also be available for casual participation.

Reyes Mold by Alan (Approx. H12cm [H23cm with handle] × W18 × D15cm / Rosewood, Maple) ¥462,000 10” Oval Open Basket (Approx. H33cm with handle × W26 × D22cm / Maple) ¥290,000

Mini Oval Basket 1_1/8" Ivory One Handle (Approx. W2.8cm / Bottom Plate, Rim, Handle: Ivory [Elephant Tusk]) ¥132,000 GMJ Original Tool Bag (Round: approx. Ø13.5 × H16cm, Oval: approx. 17 × 9 × H13cm base, Handle: total length approx. 40cm / Thread: 100% cotton, Brooch: Brass, Handle: Vegetable-tanned leather) ¥22,000 each

Amid growing reevaluation of mass production and consumption, interest in handcrafted, long-lasting artisan goods is rising. As consumers increasingly value quality and the stories behind products—especially in summer accessories like basket bags—this event focuses on 'Nantucket Baskets,' a traditional American craft. Through innovative designs suited to modern life and hands-on workshops, the exhibition aims to convey the profound charm of traditional craftsmanship and the richness it brings to everyday living.