You've put together an outfit using fmn items. Could you tell us about the key points of your styling?

I really like peplum and voluminous items, so I chose the rokh jacket, and I also loved this knit skirt. For the sneakers, I picked this Nike model. The way it shines when the light hits it is very cute, so I chose this color to balance the outfit.

Are there any sneakers you're interested in right now?

Recently, I've been eyeing the Nike Superfly in gold, and I also just bought the collaboration between Cecilie Bahnsen and The North Face, so those are what I'm interested in.

What are your styling principles?

I really prioritize volume and silhouette. I tend to prefer voluminous styles, but I'm also mindful of not appearing short, so I try to make myself look taller.

What prompted you to start your brand?

I learned about the reality of mass production and mass disposal in my previous job, and that's when I decided I wanted to create things not just for my own ego. I wanted to make things using what already exists in the world, transforming them into new forms.

What is the meaning behind the brand name "LOVE it ONCE MORE"?

As the brand name suggests, the theme is to "love it once more." I personally love the word "LOVE," so I definitely wanted to include it. Also, my desire for the brand is to "love it once more," and to create things not for my own ego. The "it" in "LOVE it" refers to yarn, the Earth, ourselves, and everything. I chose this name because I want the brand to embody a cycle of love, loving everything.

What sparked your interest in sustainable manufacturing?

It was both learning about the reality of the situation and a deep-seated desire since childhood to be kind to the Earth. These things resonated with me, and at the core of my creative process, it felt mandatory to consider the global environment, not just my own ego. That's why I started sustainable manufacturing.

In your daily life, what actions do you take to be environmentally conscious?

Regarding food, clothing, and shelter, when I cook, I always use all ingredients without waste, following macrobiotic cooking methods. Also, I'm very mindful of the impact that water drained after laundry has on fish and the ocean, so I try to choose organic products or those that have a minimal environmental footprint.

Could you tell us about your design inspiration and themes?

Knit scarves are items for cold winter days, so I want to create things that warm people's hearts during those times. I'm energized by colors, and I put a lot of meaning into patterns. For example, the yin-yang symbol, influenced by my macrobiotic studies, represents the idea that there's more to everything than just one aspect, whether it's yin or yang. That's something I want to convey to everyone. And with tulips, for instance, I incorporate the meaning of cherishing nature and similar ideas.

Could you tell us about this POPUP?

We'll be holding events at Forget-me-nots in Daikanyama, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. This will be the first time for our brand to have events in Nagoya and Fukuoka, so I'm really looking forward to meeting new customers.

What kind of items will be featured?

Of course, our brand's signature item, the big scarf, will be available, as well as a slightly narrower version for more daily use, called the Narrow scarf. We'll also have hoods, beanies, bags, ribbon keychains, and even vests. Those are the items we plan to offer this time.

What kind of workshop will be held at the Daikanyama store?

This time, we're holding a scarf workshop where you can choose three patterns. You'll sew the seams like a blanket stitch, creating an original scarf by combining your favorite patterns. That's the kind of workshop we plan to have.

What values do you cherish, and how do you overcome difficulties?

Even through my brand, one important thing I always keep in mind is to truly love myself first. When I encounter difficulties, I have to pick myself up, so I always hold on to encouraging words as a charm. I remember words people have said to me, and I think, "Okay, I can do this," and that always gives me a strong push forward. I think it would be good for everyone to have some encouraging words as a charm in such times.

What do you want to challenge next?

While I really enjoy making scarves, space design is also a genre I want to prioritize within the brand. Last year and this year, I had events where I took over hotel rooms with knits, and I'd love to do similar knit space designs not just in Japan but also overseas and in various other places.

After graduating from Osaka Bunka Fashion College, Maro gained experience as a knit designer at an apparel company. In 2019, she went independent and established the knit brand "LOVE it ONCE MORE." In 2024, she founded Kuratani Design Office Co., Ltd., further expanding her range of expression.

@loveitoncemore_official
@maro_kuratani