My Panda, Shibuya

By Kelly Wetherille |
August 16, 2013 |
Fashion

When My Panda first opened at Shibuya Parco, the brand explained that its concept was that everything in the store—from cashmere cardigans and button-down shirts to bowler hats and even socks—was created in a two-tone fashion. Whether they appeared as stripes, contrasting accents or in the line's popular color blocking, each garment was strictly limited to two colors; no more, no less.

This concept has evolved slightly over time (well, not a long time—it’s been less than a year since the store opened), and while My Panda’s styles still adhere to the brand’s trademark duality, this is no longer limited to just color. The fall collection includes some interesting use of contrasting yet monotone textures (such as in the skirts above, ¥25,200), and there are also items that technically incorporate three colors (although still only two fabrics).

The brilliance of My Panda’s concept is in its simplicity. These are timeless staples that quite literally go with anything, and are easily mixed and matched with other items within the store. It is not difficult to become so wrapped up in creating outfits from the myriad of options that you completely lose track of the time. And for those that need a bit of help, the sales girls are on hand to offer advice, as well as a welcome fresh perspective.

Like many Japanese brands, the quality and construction of all My Panda’s items is top notch. The fabrics are luxuriously soft and supple, the silhouettes well cut and softly tailored. And yet, the prices are a far cry from what one would pay for an item of similar quality from an international brand. Cashmere turtlenecks run around ¥30,450, coats range from about ¥40,000 to just over ¥60,000, and shoes start at around ¥35,700. The brand’s popularity has been steadily increasing, and a new store has recently opened in Ikebukuro Parco as well.

With the summer heat showing no signs of dissipating anytime soon, it’s nearly impossible for many of us—myself included—to even think about shopping for fall clothes yet. But I’ll be keeping My Panda in mind for as soon as the weather does cool down; I have my eye on those half-lace pencil skirts.