Uniqlo geared to take world by storm
February 21, 2015
Opening to an unbelievably large crowd on Sept. 26, 2014, the Uniqlo branch in the Glendale Galleria has been an absolute hit.
According to an article by Japan Society, the first Uniqlo store opened in 1984 in Hiroshima. The company then moved its headquarters to Tokyo, making it “‘truly a Japanese national company,’” according to Nobuo Domae, CEO of Uniqlo USA.
Now this global company has branches in Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Germany, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia and the United States.
At first glance, the design of the clothes might seem too simple and cookie cutter for some, but looking closer, there is a subtle quirkiness to every article of clothing, reminiscent of the 1950’s suburbs craze in America.
But Uniqlo products are even more lively than that. Each product is laden with a bubbliness and fun that is a breath of fresh air from the wild chicness of Los Angeles; the clothes are imbued with a flavor of childishness and surrealism.
To top it all off, the store has countless promotions on top of their already decently priced items.
A shopping spree at Uniqlo would be perfect for breaking those winter blues and inviting in spring!
Uniqlo’s main product, the Ultra Light Down, come in a variety of colors and styles to suit everyone.
And now, here is a selection of Uniqlo’s best products, chosen by yours truly, to help fight off the dreariness of winter:
1. Ultra Light Down — Uniqlo’s shining jewel, the Ultra Light Down collection, puts unthinkable twists on a seemingly simple piece of outerwear. Some have hoods, some are vests, some are short, some are mid-length, some are long, but all come in the same vast variety of colors that Uniqlo is famous for; the combinations are endless. The light fabric also keeps them from being burdensome. The most incredible feature of the Ultra Light Down pieces is that it can be rolled up and put in an accompanying pocket. Offered in men’s, women’s and children’s sizes, everyone can indulge in this little treat. While it is a bit pricey (prices range from $29.90 during promotions to $89.90 regularly), it is a necessity for those random, chilly days in Southern California.
2. Flannel Long Sleeve Shirts — The various colors makes these shirts perfect for casual wear, whether you want to embrace a feminine or sporty style. Slightly thick, these shirts are great for any sort of weather, too. Some flannel shirts even have flower patterns on top of the checkered patterns. Regardless of what kind of pattern you prefer and what your personal style is, these shirts will end up as part of your go-to outfit.There is also a vast collection for the men, who will find the shirts just as charming. At $29.90, the shirts might seem a little pricey, but they are definitely worth the price. Watch out for the random promotions to snag a shirt for $19.90!
Uniqlo has its origins in Japan, but at the rate of its expansion, the clothing store is easily proving that it is of global standards.
3. SPRZ NY collection — I’ll admit, I am guilty of butchering the name of this collection as “spuhruz NY collection.” To clear up the confusion, let me just throw this out there first: it is called “Surprise New York.” A unique collaboration between Uniqlo and New York’s Museum of Modern Art, the collection contains various styles including Ultra Light Down jackets, crew necks, hoodies, tank tops and T-shirts. These clothes have prints of works from artists like Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Jenny Holzer. Ranging from $9.90 during promotions and $89.90 for the Ultra Light Down jackets, SPRZ NY is affordable and definitely unique.
4. Women’s Denim Long Sleeve Shirt (Blue) — There are many denim shirts to choose from, but only one for the low price of $9.90. Granted, the low price is due to a promotion (it was originally $29.90), but the promotion price has stayed the same for the past month. The pocket on the left breast keeps the otherwise plain shirt from being boring, and the denim has faded blue look that keeps you looking fresh and light. This shirt is a perfect complement for any cardigan or pair of jeans. The simplicity also makes it a nice canvas for accessories like a chunky golden necklace, or a bright scarf. Mix and match to find your own style!
5. Stoles — At first glance, Uniqlo’s stoles are nothing more than moderately priced scarves at $19.90. But upon closer inspection, they are miracle accessories; they can be used for anything. I use the thick 2Way Stole (Check) in 31 Beige, shown here, as a scarf, a blanket and a protective wrap for my books on rainy days. Great as an accessory, and it actually provides warmth! Offered in a variety of colors, styles, thicknesses, all Uniqlo stoles are useful in one way or another. While stoles similar to the ones shown here are more heavy-duty, some are very light and casual. Options in stores may be limited, but be sure to check out the website for a plethora of stoles. Uniqlo stoles are a must-have, regardless of the season, so stock up on them today!