Innholdsfortegnelse for July 2025 i Luxury Trending Magazine

“My true self is thrilled by things that are gorgeous, dazzling, beautiful, bold, and grand.” FROM SHADOWS TO SHINE: BABUCHAN’S JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY In March 2022, BABUchan’s life took a pivotal turn at the luxurious Marriott Associa Hotel in Nagoya, Japan. It was here that she first met Lily, the visionary designer behind the Lily Kimono Dress—an encounter that would reshape her destiny. The moment she slipped into the elegant garment, crafted from traditional kimono fabrics, she felt an undeniable spark. This was no ordinary dress; it was a symbol of hope and self-expression. As the fourth-generation leader of her family’s flourishing business in Oita, Japan, BABUchan’s upbringing came with its share of security and expectations. While her father’s legacy offered her material comfort, it also stifled her individuality. The…

@lily.k_lillydress WHERE FABRIC MEETS SPIRIT Lily K doesn’t just design kimonos, she channels stories. Her kimono dresses breathe the language of spirit, style, and self-discovery. To wear one is to step into a new version of yourself; to create one, for Lily, is to speak with fabric the way a poet speaks with words. “Spirituality, to me, is instinct straight from the soul,” she says. “Talking to cloth is like a shamanic ritual—I feel the spirit in every thread.” A typical day in Lily’s life is far from usual. Her rhythm isn’t dictated by alarm clocks or boardroom meetings but by inspiration. “I spend my time lounging on the sofa in my favorite spot—like the Lily Room, where she has created a space for sipping café au lait, constantly visualizing,…

“Dreams can come true at any time.” A LATE AWAKENING: SANA’S MUSICAL JOURNEY OF HOPE AND PASSION Born and raised in a charming village enveloped by the verdant landscapes of Kyushu, Sana discovered her love for singing at a tender age. She would often find herself humming along to the trending idol songs of the time, nurturing dreams of one day captivating an audience from a stage of her own. The electrifying debut of the legendary pop duo Pink Lady left an indelible mark on her spirit. Inspired by their energy, she thought, “I want to sing like that too.” Yet the path to her dreams was strewn with challenges. Her father worked away from home, and her mother also worked to support the household. Finances were tight. Growing up…

@tomo_loveworld THE HEART OF AN ADVENTURER: TOMO HARRIS’S STORY Tomo’s life began in the serene countryside of Japan, with her early years shaped by sprawling rice fields, winding rivers, and vibrant wildflowers. Unlike a typical childhood filled with dolls and quiet afternoons, hers was a whirlwind of adventure. Climbing trees, chasing butterflies, and exploring the neighborhood were her daily rituals. “I was always outside, always moving, always curious,” recalls Tomo, her voice radiating joy. This innate sense of curiosity became the backbone of her life, guiding her through each new chapter. A pivotal moment arrived when a seemingly innocuous remark from her boss ignited a flame within her: “You’d make more money if you spoke English.” This comment awakened a desire in her—a yearning not just to learn a new…

@yumi_chandra Yumi committed to her own version of serious play: to live joyfully, create freely, and share a universal message with authenticity. THE ART OF BEING: YUMI FUKADA AND THE KIMONO OF CONSCIOUSNESS Born in the vibrant city of Osaka, Yumi found herself surrounded by the rich tapestry of her family’s apparel business. From a young age, she was steeped in the world of fashion—but her fascination ran deeper than mere aesthetics. Influenced by her father’s scholarly pursuits into the nature of beauty, Yumi sought to understand not just how to decorate the body, but how to engage with the invisible energies that linger beneath the surface. For her, clothing transcends fabric; it becomes a medium through which one can explore profound truths about existence and identity. As she embraced…

June 2, 2025 On June 2, Opening Night festivities were enjoyed by more than 500 attendees, all of whom got a sneak peek of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco’s permanent-collection galleries featuring fresh summer blooms from over 80 floral exhibitors. Floral fashion–inspired looks from City College of San Francisco floristry students wowed attendees with a live fashion show and guests enjoyed a delicious spread provided by McCalls Catering & Events. A record-breaking half a million dollars was raised; proceeds from Opening Night help underwrite exhibitions, conservation projects, and education programs at the de Young and Legion of Honor museums. Notable attendees: Lorna Meyer Calas - Honorary Opening Night Chair Gretchen Kimball - Honorary Floral Fashions Chair Diane B. Wilsey - Grand Patron David Spencer - FAMSF Board Chair…

Chizuko went on to attend more of Lily’s retreats, both in Japan and abroad. Through these experiences, she met wonderful people and forged moments of deep connection and healing. THE BLOSSOMING OF CHIZUKO: A PATH TO EMBRACING TRUE SELF As she transitioned into adulthood, her struggles with self-esteem remained steadfast, weighing her down like an invisible anchor. Chizuko longed to connect with her colleagues, to forge friendships, and to feel a sense of belonging in settings that often felt foreign to her. Each time she attempted to reach out, her mind would flood with self-doubt. What if I say the wrong thing? What if they think I’m strange? These relentless thoughts formed barriers, making it difficult for her to speak up or truly engage. Even the simplest exchanges felt like…

ROOTED IN NATURE, GUIDED BY DREAMS: THE STORY OF MADOKA SATO Madoka’s adventure began in her early twenties, a time of uncertainty that left her feeling adrift, grappling with questions of identity and purpose. At the heart of her restlessness was a quiet yearning—a searching within. This introspection led to a pivotal encounter that would change her life forever. While on this quest for meaning, she crossed paths with Thomas Banyacya, a revered messenger from the Hopi people, a Native American tribe whose wisdom would offer her new insights. Through Thomas, Madoka became aware of the uranium mining on Hopi lands and its devastating impact on the health of their children. This revelation jolted her awake; it illuminated the hidden costs of her own abundant life, which came at the…

UNVEILING STRENGTH: THE ELEGANT EVOLUTION OF SEKO-CHAN HOW ONE WOMAN TURNED PAST PAIN INTO RADIANT PURPOSE AT 63 Seko-chan’s enchanting story begins in 1961 in the serene, snowy countryside of Miyagi Prefecture, in Japan’s rural northeast. Growing up, she lived what she believed was a normal, happy life with her parents and younger brother. However, everything changed one fateful day during her second year of elementary school. While playing at a friend’s house, Seko-chan’s mother arrived with surprising news: they would be staying at her aunt’s home for an indefinite time. Without questioning it, she packed her belongings and boarded a train for what would be a four- to five-hour journey. It was on this quiet ride that despair overtook her; she was being taken to a place from which…

@yukarinewyork CHASING DREAMS: YUKARI KATADA’S PATH FROM TOKYO TO NEW YORK As a child, Yukari was a vibrant and spirited girl, often running around with the energetic abandon of a little boy. Yet beneath her lively exterior lay a sensitive soul, easily wounded by the feeling of being different amid her peers in Japan. The stark contrast of her hair and body made her feel uncomfortable and, at times, resentful. Growing up, she watched her mother carry the weight of constant worry and concern. Yukari unknowingly absorbed this anxiety, fostering a belief that she must always remain strong and cheerful. As a result, she learned to mask her pain, donning a brave facade to pretend everything was okay—even when it wasn’t. A JOURNEY INTO THE WORLD OF BEAUTY Yukari’s life…

@yu_mi1207 Yumi strives to foster connections in families, guiding them to embrace the love that is always present, even in moments of difficulty. JOURNEY OF A HEALING HEART: YUMI INOUE’S PATH TO MOTHERHOOD AND HOLISTIC WELLNESS Hailing from the bustling city of Nagoya, Japan, Yumi embarked on a profound transformative journey that began with the life-altering experience of becoming a single mother. When her child turned two, the pillars of her life began to shift, prompting her to seek a more harmonious existence. The global upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 served as a critical catalyst for change. It propelled her to the serene, nature-rich landscapes of the Yatsugatake area in 2021, where she found solace amidst the beauty of fresh rice fields, abundant vegetables, and pure spring…

May 2, 2025 The Disco Ball, a dazzling new gala experience from Dress for Success San Francisco, made its debut on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Terra Gallery, bringing together more than 300 guests for an immersive evening of storytelling, celebration, and support for Bay Area women working toward economic independence. Guests arrived dressed in Studio 54 glam and futuristic sparkle as they were greeted by performers on roller skates in full disco ball attire and live disco beats from WHIT the DJ. Attendees enjoyed wine from longtime supporter Wente Family Vineyards, a non-alcoholic bar by Abstinence Spirits, faux casino games from Full House Games, and reception caviar from The Caviar Co. The highlight of the evening came from two Client Ambassadors—Alicia Quick and Juthaporn Chaloeicheep—who shared deeply personal stories…

DANCING THROUGH DARKNESS: MIKI ARTEMIS’S JOURNEY FROM DESPAIR TO JOY Miki Artemis, a passionate dance artist, captivates audiences with her expressive movements, reminiscent of a fully bloomed flower that captures the essence of femininity. Her unique performances, often enhanced by traditional Japanese kimono attire, allow her to cultivate a remarkable presence on stage. With a vision that transcends cultural boundaries, she invites viewers into an enchanting world of dance. In addition to her performances, Miki Artemis runs her own dance school, where she nurtures and inspires her students through regular lessons, encouraging them to discover their own dance journeys. DISCOVERING THE DANCE OF LIFE: MIKI ARTEMIS’S JOURNEY INTO BELLY DANCE Miki Artemis’s love for dance began at an early age, naturally guiding her toward a career as a fitness instructor.…

WINTER ALWAYS TURNS TO SPRING: THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF HANNA Hanna’s life took a dramatic turn in 2003 when, at the age of 36, she received an earth-shattering diagnosis: stage 4 hypopharyngeal cancer. Faced with a mere 32% chance of survival, she was thrust into a whirlwind of despair. “It felt as though the world lost its sound,” she recalls, grappling with the weight of her new reality. A devoted mother to her 11-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter, the urgency of her survival was palpable. “Am I really going to die like this? No! I still want to live!” she exclaimed, driven by a singular wish to watch her children grow. The journey ahead was fraught with unimaginable challenges. For over three months, Hanna could only survive on IV fluids;…

RENEWED HOPE: MIKIKO NAGAMITSU’S TALE OF STRENGTH AND HEALING CHILDHOOD Mikiko was born in Kumamoto, Japan, as the youngest of four sisters in a family that valued education. Her parents were both teachers and focused on learning. Growing up surrounded by beautiful nature, she was a lively child, often seen running through fields with a big smile. Her mother loved teaching and signed Mikiko up for many activities when she was young—like school subjects, piano lessons, calligraphy, and learning to use an abacus. These early experiences helped shape her curious and determined personality. SCHOOL YEARS At just four years old, Mikiko started at Seibo Kindergarten and continued to elementary school, junior high, high school, and then university. In college, she studied English and enjoyed student life. She made many close…

@shihobrenner WRITING HER WAY HOME: THE INSPIRING NARRATIVE OF SHIHO BRENNER A CHILDHOOD OF WONDER AND TRADITION Born in Mishima, Japan, a picturesque town nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Fuji, Shiho was immersed in the beauty of nature and the profound richness of her cultural heritage. Her childhood revolved around vivid storytelling—long afternoons spent devouring books that whisked her away to distant realms and evenings shared with her grandparents, watching sumo wrestling on television. The powerful clashes of the rikishi, the distinctive scent of tatami mats, and the warmth resonating from her grandparents’ laughter instilled in her a steadfast appreciation for tradition and narrative. While she cherished these moments, an insatiable curiosity simmered beneath the surface. The tales she read offered glimpses into distant lands, unfamiliar languages,…

@yukarin224 CRAFTING A LIFE OF JOY: YUKARI UENO’S INSPIRATIONAL STORY Yukari entered this world on the outskirts of Tokyo, a dreamer from the very beginning. As a little girl with big aspirations, she often envisioned herself standing under bright lights, microphone in hand, enchanting audiences with her voice. Music was her childhood companion—a constant melody of hope that danced in her heart. Determined to touch the stars, she enrolled in a training school affiliated with a talent agency, convinced she was destined for greatness. Yet, as she matured, the weight of societal expectations began to silence her dreams. “It’s not realistic,” she would whisper to herself, burying those once-vivid ambitions deep within. Conforming to the practical path laid before her, Yukari eventually turned her sights to nursing, driven by a…

@yuriya_bellydance FROM PAIN TO BEAUTY: THE HEALING JOURNEY OF YURIYA THE ESSENCE OF “EN” (艶) At the heart of Yuriya’s artistic expression is the Japanese aesthetic of “En” (艶), a term that encapsulates more than just flamboyant beauty. It signifies a subtle, radiant glow that flickers within the mundane aspects of life. It’s a graceful strength that pervades a poised presence, and above all, it embodies a beauty that exists for oneself. To Yuriya, “En” carries multiple layers of meaning. The term “enyaka” (艶やか) evokes a moist, understated sensuality that rises like a delicate fragrance—not flashy, but deeply resonant, leaving behind a quiet, elegant trace. Yet, she also hears in “En” the sound of “en” (縁), which means “connection” or “destiny” between individuals. Further, she likens it to “en” (円),…

June 11, 2025 On June 12, at San Francisco’s SFJAZZ Center, SFJAZZ—under the direction and guidance of Executive Artistic Director Terence Blanchard—held its SFJAZZ Gala 2025. The gala raised $1.4 million to support the organization’s artistic and education programs with the goal of advancing jazz in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. This year’s gala honored legendary producer, musician, and Blue Note Records President Don Was with the SFJAZZ Lifetime Achievement Award. Notable attendees: Terence Blanchard - Executive Artistic Director, SFJAZZ Don Was - President, Blue Note Records Delroy Lindo - Actor and Gala Host Paul Reiser - Actor and Gala Host Charles Lloyd - Jazz Legend Mayor Daniel Lurie - San Francisco Mayor Molly Joel Coye - SFJAZZ Board Chair Chris Larsen - Executive and angel investor Mary…