Economy

Tokyo’s Odaiba waterfront district is set to unveil “Tokyo Aqua Symphony,” a fountain system billed as one of the world’s largest, by the end of March. The name was officially announced by Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, according to multiple Japanese news outlets.

The fountain, located in the Odaiba area, is intended to be a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s revitalization efforts. Governor Koike stated the fountain is designed to harmonize water and music, enhancing the appeal of the waterfront area, as reported by the Sankei Shimbun.

Details regarding the fountain’s scale and technological features remain limited, but reports consistently emphasize its size. The Yomiuri Shimbun and Nippon Television News both reported the “world’s largest” designation, whereas the Mainichi Shimbun confirmed the fountain’s scale is unprecedented.

The project is being overseen by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The role of a Senior Editor, as described by industry resources, often involves upholding standards of accuracy and consistency, a principle likely applied to the public-facing messaging surrounding the fountain’s launch. The editorial direction and strategy for such a project would fall under the purview of Lead Editors, potentially including a Senior Editor, in collaboration with the publisher and relevant government bodies, according to Taylor & Francis’s guidelines for editorial teams.

The fountain’s completion is scheduled for the end of March, with no further public announcements currently scheduled regarding a formal opening ceremony or related events.

The runways have spoken: the mokasin is poised for a major resurgence this spring. Once a classic staple, the style is being reimagined by leading fashion houses and embraced by influencers, signaling a shift towards both comfort and sophisticated style.

Designers at Prada, Gucci, and Saint Laurent featured mokasins in their recent collections, demonstrating the style’s versatility and modern appeal. This isn’t a simple revival of a past trend, but a reinterpretation, with brands showcasing both traditional leather versions and innovative designs, according to recent fashion reports.

The growing popularity of the mokasin also reflects a broader trend towards prioritizing comfort in fashion. Even Kate Middleton has been observed opting for flat footwear more frequently, a move that underscores the increasing acceptance of comfortable styles within high-profile circles. This shift suggests that practicality is becoming a key element of luxury.

Beyond the high fashion world, the mokasin is proving to be a versatile addition to everyday wardrobes. Influencers and celebrities are pairing them with a range of outfits, from oversized blazers and straight-leg jeans to pleated skirts and tailored trousers, creating a look that is both effortless and polished.

Novel variations on the classic mokasin are also emerging. Loafer-mules, characterized by their backless design, are gaining traction as a spring and summer option. Two-tone models and contrasting color combinations offer a bolder statement, even as brushed leather remains a popular choice for its texture and enduring style. Alexander McQueen, known for its luxury designs, offers mokasins and slippers as part of its collection, alongside other footwear like Chelsea boots and espadrilles.

Styling options are diverse. The traditional approach involves pairing mokasins with straight or slightly cropped trousers, creating a clean and timeless aesthetic. For a more casual look, they can be worn with jeans and a simple t-shirt or blouse. A current trend involves wearing mokasins with socks – white sports socks for a contrasting, streetwear-inspired effect, or thin socks in a coordinating color for a more refined appearance. The style also translates well to skirts and dresses, offering a modern and chic combination.

While mokasins are generally flattering on a variety of body types, certain considerations can enhance their effect. Those with balanced proportions will find the style particularly complementary, while individuals with slimmer or more athletic builds can employ mokasins to accentuate the elegance of their ankles, especially when paired with cropped pants. For those who are shorter, selecting a mokasin in a similar color to their trousers can create the illusion of longer legs.