A Thousand Years of Japanese Elegance—Reimagined for the Modern Gentleman

A textile once reserved for the most sacred spaces of Japanese culture—kireji, the silk fabric used for mounting hanging scrolls—now finds new life as a refined accessory for the modern wardrobe.

RIKYU CHIEF infuses this thousand-year-old material with contemporary sensibility, offering a pocket chief that adds quiet dignity and unmistakable character to tailored outfits.

As Christmas and New Year gift demand increases, RIKYU CHIEF enters a full-scale holiday season rollout.

Initially spotlighted at the Osaka Expo 2025 Pre-Event, the brand captivated both domestic and international visitors with its message:

“Redifine tradition with elegance.”

RIKYU CHIEF Web site: https://rikyuchief.com/en

Pocket chiefs sublimating a 1,000 year-old tradition into modern wear.

What Is RIKYU CHIEF?

[RIKYU CHIEF] Introduction of products

RIKYU CHIEF transforms kireji—a silk textile introduced during the Heian period and perfected in the Muromachi era amid the rise of tea culture—into a modern fashion item.Once essential to the aesthetic world of tea masters, kireji is now a craft at risk of disappearing due to the decline in demand for hanging scrolls.

Driven by the conviction that “a tradition preserved for 1,000 years must not be lost,” RIKYU CHIEF reinterprets the fabric through the discerning eye of Sen no Rikyu, creating pocket chiefs that embody both heritage and modern elegance.

[RIKYU CHIEF] The Most Popular Motif: Sword & Drum（剣太鼓）

At the Osaka Expo, RIKYU CHIEF drew significant attention under the theme “Redifine tradition with elegance.” Among its designs, the Sword & Drum motif captivated viewers with its dignified presence. Its structured texture, graceful three-dimensional form, and luminous silk sheen allow the pocket chief to be placed effortlessly into a jacket’s breast pocket—no elaborate folding required—creating an immediate sense of quiet strength and refined elegance.

Celebrated by senior executives, style-conscious dressers, and even those discovering pocket squares for the first time, RIKYU CHIEF has come to embody a contemporary expression of Japanese luxury rooted in centuries-old craftsmanship.

Features of RIKYU CHIEF

[RIKYU CHIEF]I In front of a Hakuin Zen master's scroll. The model is holding a "Floral Medallion".

Each RIKYU CHIEF inherits the characteristics of kireji:

1.A firm, sculptural texture that maintains an elegant shape throughout the day

2.Surprising wrinkle resistance despite being 100% silk

3.Reversible color and pattern, allowing both sides to be used

4.Designs rooted in 1,000 years of history and symbolism

5.A compact size that harmonizes with modern, smaller jacket pockets and avoids bulging

A Pocket Chief for Both Men and Women

[RIKYU CHIEF] Sword & Drum

While pocket squares have traditionally been considered a men’s accessory, the rise of female executives and public leaders has expanded the demand for elegant, gender-neutral accents.

RIKYU CHIEF strikes a perfect balance—neither overly sweet nor rigid—bringing polish to:

・business attire

・anniversaries

・ceremonial occasions

・evening gatherings

It is equally suitable as a thoughtful, refined gift.

Meaning and Symbolism of the Motifs

[RIKYU CHIEF]  Hanabishi Crest

RIKYU CHIEF currently features eight designs, each carrying its own meaning, blessing, and historical narrative.

Futaeduru Oobotan (Double Vine and Large Peony / 二重蔓大牡丹）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Double Vine Large Peony

A magnificent peony—long revered as the “king of flowers”—blooms upon intertwined vines symbolizing prosperity and enduring bonds.

The composition carries a poised rhythm, bringing both grandeur and quiet strength to the wearer.

Kendaiko（Sword & Drum / 剣太鼓）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Sword & Drum

A dynamic interplay between the blade’s sharp resolve and the drum’s resonant circular form.

This motif unites stillness and motion—expressing disciplined will and harmonious spirit.

Daitougumo（Great Lantern Cloud / 大燈雲）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Great Lantern Cloud

Clouds drifting high above meet a guiding lantern’s glow, symbolizing hope, wisdom, and serene expansiveness.

An emblem of inner light that softly illuminates one’s presence.

Hanabishi（Hanabishi Crest / 花菱）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Hanabishi Crest

A timeless geometric flower emblem cherished since the Heian court.

It conveys elegance, vitality, and refined composure with understated brilliance.

Hishiji Futaeduru Oobotan（Chestnut Ground Peony with Double Vines / 菱地二重蔓大牡丹）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Chestnut Ground Peony with Double Vines

Peony, vine, and diamond motifs harmonize to express wealth, connection, purity, and life force.

The structured pattern brings both dignity and a quiet sense of tension within its splendor.

Kamon（Floral Medallion / 花文）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Floral Medallion

An abstract floral design reflecting the flow of the seasons and the cycles of life.

Its understated elegance and gentle curves offer a universal, timeless beauty.

Houou, Ryu and Usagi（Phoenix, Dragon & Rabbit / 鳳凰、龍と兎）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Phoenix, Dragon & Rabbit

A soaring dragon, a gracefully dancing phoenix, and a playful rabbit gathered in one auspicious design.

Power, harmony, dignity, and charm resonate together, adding depth and character to any ensemble.

Koumori（Bat Crest / 蝙蝠）

[RIKYU CHIEF] Bat Crest

A long-standing symbol of good fortune, its form echoes “blessing” in ancient Chinese wordplay.

Rendered in Rikyu’s subtle rat-grey, the motif embodies intuitive strength and quiet individuality.

A Gift Meant to Be Cherished

[RIKYU CHIEF] Hishiji Futaeduru Oobota with a gift box

Each gift set is presented in a beautifully crafted paulownia wood box, with a motif-specific design.Lightweight, durable, and elegant, the box enhances the sense of occasion—making RIKYU CHIEF a superb choice for Christmas, New Year’s gifts, and formal celebrations.

A non-boxed version is also available for personal use.

Product Details

◎RIKYU CHIEF: various colors

Material: 100% silk

Size: 24 cm x 24 cm (pocket chiefs may vary slightly)

◎Paulownia box (for gift use only)

Dimensions: 17.1 cm (length) X 7.1 cm (width) X 2.3 cm (height)

Internal dimensions: 15.6 cm (length) x 5.6 cm (width) x 1.5 cm (height)

The design of the paulownia box is different for each pattern.

◎Precautions for handling

Wash by hand only (30°C or less).

Please iron at a low temperature and cover with a cloth.

RIKYU CHIEF at the Kansai Expo 2025

About RIKYU CHIEF

RIKYU CHIEF and a picture printed on "kureji," a fabric used for mounting scrolls.

RIKYU CHIEF and the picture picture displayed on "kureji," a fabric used for making scrolls, are made with traditional patterns and weaving techniques, and are made into modern fashions.

The concept is "Redifine tradition with elegance." 

The feature of this pocket chief is the suppleness of the fabric, which can be placed in a random manner and still look good.

OFFICIAL LINKS

Explore the full collection and brand story below:

・Official Website: https://rikyuchief.com/

・Online Store: https://rikyuchief.shop/

・Instagram (Brand): https://www.instagram.com/rikyu_chief/

・Instagram (Style Collection): https://www.instagram.com/rikyu_chief_collection/

Sold by Ichirindo Co.

Manufactured by Masumi Tokyo Co.

[RIKYU CHIEF] Main visual