Known in the United States for its elegant plays between both frou frou and edge, the decidedly hip (and high-end) Jill Stuart label holds a different image in Japan, where it is coveted more for its cosmetics than its clothing. Department stores carry the pricey make-up line consisting of princess-themed, subtly embellished silver packaging, with every season release unabashedly bursting with spring-loving pinks, purples and greens. An absolute hit with the sophisticated and luxury-loving aesthetic of Japanese women, it makes sense that the brand would want to expand its franchise in the country.
Enter the surprising but delightful new offering from the brand – the elegant sweetXJillStuart Cafe, serving dessert creations made to look like the pride and joy of fantasy tea parties for perfect little girls. Ice cream parfaits with fresh whipped cream and seasonal fruits are served in charming Jill Stuart striped paper bowls, with matching cups for equally ladylike drinks. The containers match the overall concept of the store, which soothes and welcomes with a low-saturation concoction of creamy pinks, soft chocolate browns and ivory. Special limited-time food items are common, if not a must, in Japanese restaurants and establishments, and the cafe tempts guests in as well by offering the brand new Mixed Berries Yogurt (580 Yen – about US$6.50) and a nicely festive Strawberry Hot Cocoa (470 Yen – a little over US$5) exclusively for the holidays.
So far the Jill Stuart Cafe still has only one branch – amazingly not anywhere in Tokyo but in Osaka! Less surprisingly though is that the designer cafe is found in the Shinsaibashi district, Osaka’s main shopping area, offering a fitting place to relax after browsing the nearby shops: Dior, Harry Winston, Gucci, Samantha Thavasa, and Givenchy, just to name a few.
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