Tsuchiya Kaban Staff Favorites –Timeless Leather Designs, Crafted in Japan

Welcome to our Staff Favorites series, where Tsuchiya Kaban team members share their real-life favorites, and what they love about them. Today, Japan team member Makiko talks about two of her fall favorites: the Ruffle Gathered Tote, and the OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof Large.

Makiko's career in high-end fashion led her to realize the exceptional craftsmanship of Japanese products, particularly the precision and beauty in sewing and finishing techniques. "My past experiences inspired me to join Tsuchiya Kaban, a renowned Japanese brand I admire for its dedication to every step of the process—from production to sales—and for its rich heritage, all of which I’m passionate about sharing with the world," she shares.

Tsuchiya Kaban’s staff, Makiko Miyama in a long beige coat and dark pants stands on a street, holding a Tsuchiya Kaban’s Ruffle Gathered Tote in Taupe, next to a large tree and an old building.

Makiko’s Work Style

-Elevating Everyday Comfort with Sophisticated Styling-

"I have a preference for earthy tones and monochromatic outfits made with high-quality materials; this allows me to embody a sense of sophistication , even with the relaxed silhouettes I tend to gravitate towards."

Today she wears an oversized long coat with wide-legged trousers and a dependable pair of sneakers—a go-to fall look perfectly suited for one of her favorite activities: strolling along the quaint streets of Tokyo's downtown neighborhoods, picking up inspiration for her work.

Subtle Chic: The Ruffle Gathered Tote

Makiko in a long beige coat and dark pants stands beside a large tree with green foliage, holding a Tsuchiya Kaban’s Ruffle Gathered Tote in Taupe.

Makiko Miyama in a long beige coat and dark pants stands on a street, holding a Tsuchiya Kaban’s Ruffle Gathered Tote in Taupe and reaching up to a green awning.

A woman in a long beige coat and dark pants walks away from the viewer on a paved path next to a stone wall.

Tsuchiya Kaban’s staff, Makiko Miyama in a long beige coat and dark pants walks with a Tsuchiya Kaban’s Ruffle Gathered Tote in Taupe slung over her shoulder, past a large tree and traditional Japanese architecture.

Understated Elegance

Embellished with chic ruffles and a uniquely curved, flowing silhouette, the Ruffle Gathered Tote pairs perfectly with Makiko's elegant styles, elevating her often flowy, relaxed silhouettes.

"This bag is not only stylish but also practical and pretty light-weight. It comfortably carries my essentials, including my iPad Pro, and plenty of additional storage with pockets on both sides."

Heritage Craft + Modern Edge:
The OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof Large

Makiko Miyama in a long beige coat and dark pants, wearing a a Tsuchiya Kaban’s OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof large in Charcoal Gray, stands on a tree-lined street with fallen leaves.

Tsuchiya Kaban’s staff, Makiko Miyama with a OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof large in Charcoal Gray and a long coat is looking at books outside a bookstore with shelves visible through its glass windows.

Makiko Miyama with a Tsuchiya Kaban’s OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof large in Charcoal Gray and a long coat stands at the entrance of a bookstore, looking upwards.

Makiko Miyama with a short haircut, wearing a long light-colored coat and a Tsuchiya Kaban’s OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof large in Charcoal Gray, stands in front of bookshelves filled with books.

Makiko Miyama with a Tsuchiya Kaban’s OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof large in Charcoal Gray and a light coat is Browse books on a shelf inside a bookstore.

A Seamless All-Day Bag for the Modern Professional

"On days filled with appointments—from commuting to office work, meetings and dinners—I reach for the sophisticated OTONA RANDSEL Waterproof Large," shares Makiko. Known for its sharp, functional design, it's a signature Tsuchiya Kaban piece that draws inspiration from the traditional Randoseru.

"I love it for its timeless and gender-neutral appeal. It's perfectly suited for the modern professional, while honoring Tsuchiya's legacy and craftsmanship as a long-time Randoseru maker. This modern iteration keeps that iconic boxy shape, while accommodating modern essentials like laptops and tablets effortlessly."

"The beauty of its form also serves as striking accent to my outfits; I get a lot of compliments when I wear it. It’s a versatile bag that hits all the right notes: functional, distinctive, and stylish—it easily transitions between office formalities and evening outings."

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