From gathering information to visiting the store: Steps to making a satisfying purchase.

In line with the "new lifestyle" required by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a greater need than ever to seamlessly utilize online services such as e-commerce sites and offline services such as physical stores. During the period of self-isolation, many people likely organized their closets, clarified what they like, or discovered new things they want, leading them to think, "I want to go shopping."

Ayumu Matsuoka, who works in web media and e-commerce and is featured in this article, is one of those Mitsukoshi Isetan employees who is hungry for shopping. His Instagram account, which boasts over 5,000 followers, showcases fashion items, art, and furniture that he encounters in his daily life, but what is the "new era shopping technique" that he practices?

I want to try wearing white on my feet, something I've consciously avoided until now.

──How do you usually get your fashion inspiration and do your shopping?

I try to look at various media, not just print and the web. As for information about Isetan... since I left the sales floor and started working in the office, I've increasingly used the featured articles on the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store as a source of information and a reference for my shopping. For example, when I was vaguely thinking, "I want some white sneakers," I came across "19 White Sneakers with a Sophisticated Look Featuring High-Quality Materials, Including JOHN LOBB ," which is one of them.


I tend to wear outfits in muted tones, and I've always had a bit of a preconceived notion about white sneakers. But after decluttering during the self-isolation period, I started thinking, "Maybe this is a good time to add white sneakers to my wardrobe."

—I see. So, re-evaluating the contents of your closet and shoe rack changed your perspective.

I've avoided white sneakers until now because it's difficult to find the right balance, but with a desire to take a new step forward and the idea of reviving clothes that have been sleeping in my closet, COMMON PROJECTS and Stella McCartney menswear are my top choices for white sneakers after a long time.


Content like a feature on "white sneakers" is great because you can compare and consider options at your own pace. If you narrow down your choices beforehand and then go to a store, you can make a more satisfying purchase, and if you're still undecided, you always have the option of buying online when you get home.

Since it's summer and we'll be wearing lighter clothes, I want a mini bag that I can use as an accessory.

──What other content resonated with you, Ms. Matsuoka?

I usually only carry a wallet, cell phone, and card case, so I don't carry much. In the summer, I wear lighter clothes and have fewer pockets, so I've been wanting a mini bag that I can use as an accent to my outfits for a while now.

-- Sacoche bags and mini bags have become staples in the product lineup at ISETAN MEN'S .

As mentioned in "10 Small but Functional Mini Bags for Weekends," with the rapid shift towards a cashless society, very few people my age carry large bags anymore.


I particularly liked bagjack, which can be used with monochrome styling for a gear-like look, and ithelicy, whose excellent design really stands out when carried by a man. They seem like they could be used daily, whether casually hanging around the neck or carrying with a regular suit.

I prefer cashless payments, so I want to use a mini wallet.

--Speaking of wallets, do you also use a compact wallet?

Following on from my interest in mini bags, I've always wanted to switch to a compact wallet because I don't usually carry cash and only keep about five cards in my wallet.

The book I used as a reference was, "Choose your wallet by type! In an era where style and compactness are paramount."


I particularly liked SMYTHSON , which neatly stores each card individually, and L'arcobaleno with its modern, architectural design. It's difficult to see all the different types of leather goods in a store, so having recommendations is helpful as it helps me choose and gives me new insights.

Having mastered online services, I've come to appreciate the appeal of offline experiences—the charm of physical stores.

—It seems that your curated articles featuring buyers and sales staff are very popular.

You know how sometimes when you're browsing your smartphone, you come across content that makes you want to buy something in just two seconds? For me, that's the curated articles by Akihiko Sekikawa , a category specialist at ISETAN MEN'S , and I'm one of those people who eagerly awaits his monthly updates.


The real joy of customer service lies in the close connection between customers and sales staff in the store, deepening the relationship, getting personal recommendations, and learning styling tips. Sekikawa's page allows you to feel that same close connection online. Each comment on the products is written in Sekikawa's own words, going a step further and speaking directly to you, making it feel like you're looking inside her closet, which is really interesting.

—It 's rare to hear such "true feelings" as described in Mr. Sekikawa's article, isn't it?

For example, the lineup includes items that Sekikawa-san actually buys, such as NEEDLES jacket, and his other item selections are also very "Sekikawa-esque." Sekikawa-san's personality comes through so realistically, making the products seem much more appealing. I thought that his review-style recommendations were valuable information.


After seeing this content, you'll likely think, "I want that too," and customers who intuitively like the selection will probably want to meet Mr. Sekikawa in person. You can also book an appointment with Mr. Sekikawa through the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store, so please check that out as well. I'm sure you'll discover a whole new world of fashion.

By the way, I, Matsuoka, also have a curation page, so I'd be happy if you could take a look at it.

View the product selection article for "Ayumi Matsuoka" on the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store.

＊All prices include tax.
＊The information in this article is current as of the time of publication. Product information may be revised or changed without notice.