I started RICCI EVERYDAY, a brand that uses colourful and playful African prints to create bags and goods, in 2015.
Through our work, we hope to create a world where women from around the world are able to go beyond social expectations, and be the real #self# they want to be.
There are still many women in Japan who are not able to be true to themselves due to the social structure, and expectations. Such women often lose who they really are, due to the “curse” of “how we should be”.
I strongly felt that way through my experience of working in a bank. In the company, there was a strict rule regarding the colour of our suits, nails, and hair. Back then, I used to follow the rules and wear gray or navy suits, but wherever I looked, everyone looked the same. I felt like my uniqueness was stolen. “I’m here”
In order to express myself, and softly go against the system, I decided to wear unique and colourful shirts under the suit jacket. The shirts I wore inside became an item that expressed who I am, and gave me energy to keep going. I clearly remember how proud and relieved I felt from the bottom of my heart. We provide colourful and unpredicted African designed products to our customers.
When we’re surrounded by Afriucan prints, we feel like African prints tell us that “social expectations or norms don’t matter. What really matters is if you like yourself or not”. What you truly “love” rather than the safe choice.
We strongly hope that we become a brand where we can be by your side when you feel like you are your true self.
Who we support is not only our customers.
In our Ugandan factory, we have workers whoare single mothers or former child soldiers, people who are socially neglected from the society.
They were not able to receive high school education, and create the necessary connections to start working. There are some who have experienced unbelievable incidents.
Based on my morals and values, they were the type of people who should be receiving support, not the type of people I would be working with.
However, now, these women regained themselves and pride through working, and receiving frequent salary, and sending their products out to the world.
“I want to take away the stereotypes people have for them, and create an environment where they can shine!.
We want to remember this strong desire, and continue working towards creating a better world.
