Australian accessories brand State of Escape has just unveiled its first-ever retail store in Japan this month.
Located in Tokyo Midtown Hibiya, the 48 square metre space adds to State of Escape’s global curated round-up of high-end stockists, including Incu in Australia, Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, Barneys New York in Japan and Selfridges in the United Kingdom.
The new store in Japan uses materials like timber, stainless steel and natural stone to showcase a range of the premium bag label’s collections, including its topselling Escape Tote, the Solstice collection and the recently launched Meridian collection.
The space includes a large-scale Ficus Benjamina plant – an Australian native – encircled by a wooden bench, as well as a sculptural totem artwork by Australian artist Clementine Stoney Maconachie.
“Opening our Tokyo store is an incredibly exciting moment for us – not only as founders, but as creatives who have always envisioned State of Escape existing within its own immersive world and physical expression,” co-founder and creative director Brigitte MacGowan said.
“For the first time in Japan, our customers can experience the brand as a complete universe – where materiality, colour, craftsmanship and form exist together in a way that fully captures the spirit of State of Escape.
“Beyond the product itself, the space invites people to step into the rhythm and energy behind the brand; to touch it, wear it, and experience the collection as it was always meant to be seen.”
The opening of the Midtown Hibiya Store comes as State of Escape marks a decade of commercial operations in Japan in 2026, with the brand stocked by the likes of Ron Herman, where there is a permanent shop-in-shop space at Ron Herman Funabashi, as well as Barneys New York, Isetan, and Hankyu.
Midtown Hibiya is a mixed-use property, including retail, entertainment and restaurants. State of Escape joins a small selection of apparel retailers there, including A.P.C., The North Face, Marimekko, and Italian premium brand Pellico.
“Opening in Tokyo marks a significant milestone in our global expansion strategy and reinforces our commitment to key international markets,” State of Escape co-founder and CEO Desley Maidment said. “We are delighted to be realising these dreams alongside our Japanese partners who share our vision for the brand in this market.
“Japan’s discerning consumers hold a strong appreciation for quality and craftsmanship that align strongly with our brand values. We see ongoing, long-term growth potential in the region and view this as a key step in strengthening our market position to drive sustained commercial momentum.”
Ahead of the official opening, State of Escape held exclusive previews of the store on Friday last week for press and VIPs including Australia’s Chargé d'Affaires and Deputy Ambassador to Japan, Helen Stylianou, alongside Counsellor (Public Affairs) Bec Allen, in recognising the significance of the store opening.
Doors officially opened on Saturday, with customers receiving a free novelty item such as a bag charm or original T-shirt with purchases of 50,000 yen or more (tax included) on opening day – equivalent to around $443 Australian dollars.