Strawberry Western Taps Into Japanese Nostalgia With Chibi Maruko-Chan
The NYC-based brand celebrates the character with a new collection rooted in childhood memories and kawaii culture.
Strawberry Western is continuing its love letter to Japanese pop culture with the second release of its collaboration with beloved anime series Chibi Maruko-chan.
Following the first drop earlier this spring, the NYC-based label is expanding the collection with three new pieces: a graphic tank top, tote bag and towel, each featuring the mischievous character in true Strawberry Western style. Designed to blur the line between fashion and collectible objects, the capsule brings together the brand’s signature mix of play and functionality.
Originally created by Momoko Sakura in 1986, Chibi Maruko-chan follows the daily adventures of Maruko, a sincere but cheeky schoolgirl living in Shizuoka with her family and friends. Since its anime adaptation debuted in 1990, the character has become a beloved cultural icon in Japan and beyond, spanning generations of fans.
For Strawberry Western founder and creative director Kisa Shiga, the collaboration holds a particularly personal meaning. Growing up between New York and Himeji, Kisa was surrounded by kawaii culture, manga and Japanese fashion, with Chibi Maruko-chan forming part of her own childhood memories. The latest drop captures that same sense of comfort and nostalgia, transforming a childhood favorite into collectible pieces designed for everyday life.
The collection is now available exclusively via the Strawberry Western website.
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