It’s always been my pleasure to model for Japanese-born photographer Takako Suzuki Harkness whom I first met when she was snapping shots of our nightlife scene of New York City and offering her unique perspective and careful eye for the details.

Now she teams with Japanese fashion designer Mieko Mintz to showcase Mintz’ unique designs and I was again under her lens modeling these sumptuous garments. Mintz uses traditional Kantha fabric, which are layers of old throws and saris joined together by a hand embroidered running stitch. Utilizing the kantha to create kimono jackets and other easy fit garments, Mieko merges Indian and Japanese cultures into a contemporary and sophisticated line of clothing that envelops the wearer with sensuous comfort. In an effort towards zero waste, leftover fabric is upcycled to make hats, bags, scarves and jewelry.