The art of Japanese embroidery or Nihon Shishu

At LO NEEL , We love exploring know-how from around the world to nourish our vision of ethical, poetic and conscious fashion . Today, we zoom in on a textile art that fascinates with its beauty and precision: Japanese embroidery , or nihon shishu .

Thousand-year-old know-how at the service of beauty

Japanese embroidery is one of the most refined textile arts in the world. Practiced for over a thousand years, it was once reserved for ceremonial clothing, court kimonos, and Noh theater costumes. This artisanal work relies on codified gestures, precious materials (silk, gold, silver), and infinite patience.

Each motif, from the cherry blossom to the crane in flight, symbolizes a connection with nature and the seasons – a respect for life that resonates with our values.

A technique of great demand

Traditional Japanese embroidery is distinguished by the use of flat silk threads , laid with extreme precision on the fabric, often in successive layers. Artisans use specific tools such as the marudai frame or long, thin needles. This work requires several years of training and a rigor comparable to that of martial arts.

A source of inspiration, not a technique used

At LO NEEL , we do not practice Japanese embroidery, but we are deeply inspired by the spirit that animates it : slowness, the beauty of the gesture, the celebration of nature. These values guide us in the creation of our pieces, always designed with care, respecting the planet and artisanal know-how.

A bridge between traditions and the future

In a world dominated by rapid production and standardization, traditional arts like Japanese embroidery remind us of the importance of preserving cultures, gestures, and stories . Drawing inspiration from these techniques also means paying tribute to those who, throughout time, have put their talent at the service of beauty and sensitivity.