Our Story

What is Kanzashi?

Kanzashi (簪) are the traditional hair ornaments that adorn the hair of the Japanese Geisha & Maiko, dating back centuries. (as far back as the Jōmon period – 12,000BC)

The style of Kanzashi created at Yume Kanzashi, is Hana Tsumami Kanzashi – Folded Flower Kanzashi, where each petal is hand folded using traditional origami techniques to create every flower to the highest standard.

Yume Kanzashi  - Dream Kanzashi 

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always been in love with Japan. From its history and culture, to its fashion and music - it has always captured my heart. 

 In the Spring of 2012, after I had been modelling predominantly within the Alternative scene for 6 years, I had finally decided that I wanted to bring my love of Japanese culture to the forefront of my work.  In particular, I wanted to do a modernistic, Geisha styled photoshoot - drawing influences from both Traditional Geisha & Maiko, and Visual Kei fashion. 

 For this, I had my heart set on purchasing some Traditional Hana Kanzashi (flower Kanzashi) hair ornaments, but upon looking at the price, I soon realised that I couldn't afford to do so. 

 Dead set on having the Kanzashi as a main feature of my shoot, I decided to do my homework and learn how to create them myself. 

After my first attempt (which took me 3 full days to complete!) I fell in love with the intricacy of creating each petal by hand, and knew I just had to make more and more! 

 Over the next 2 years, I created various pieces to fit in with photoshoots,  and soon noticed that whilst using all the traditional techniques I had learned, my style of finished pieces were a lot more modernistic and wearable for those who aren't traditional wearers.  

'Yume' is Japanese for 'Dream'  - it is my dream to share my love of Japanese culture with everyone, and  keep creating these beautiful accessories in a wide range of styles, from Kawaii to Gothic, to Bridal, making them as accessible as possible.

Yume Kanzashi x