Life/Style by Aki and Koichi Kim
Aki and Koichi Kim are a super-stylishJapanese American couple in their early seventies who became social media stars later in life. Their popularity comes from their bold fashion choices and playful personalities, captured in their first book, Life/Style.
The couple first drew people’s attention when their daughter posted a few images on Instagram, with Aki and Koichi’s consent. Fame came quickly, which they say still feels ‘surreal’. Their Instagram feed reveals both their awkward charm and their adventurous spirit. While the photos in the book are, of course, posed, they still capture the essence of Aki and Koichi – wrinkles, age spots and all. Their refusal to take themselves too seriously is evident in photos such as those in which Koichi clasps a sunflower between his teeth, Aki balances on a ladder, and the couple run along the street dressed in pink. Their handsome dog Kuma features in the book too.
Both Aki and Koichi have a distinctive and eye-catching style, yet they say they dress for comfort rather than following trends. Their outfits are inspired by all sorts of things, including art, culture, films, sport and music. One page is devoted to their family playlist, ranging from 2Pac to Vandross, The Eagles to The Jackson 5.
Mirroring the look of their Instagram posts, the book consists of photos of Aki and Koichi in many different outfits. While their Instagram account frequently revolves around their role as influencers, the book has a less commercial focus and includes sage advice.
Do not be afraid to dream big and have the courage to pursue those dreams wholeheartedly. … Life is short, but life is beautiful … do everything you can to live it fully with intention, gratitude, and heart.
A key message: embrace individuality.
Clothes are meant to be explored, to help you express yourself. You don’t have to be afraid of looking different. You are different. That is the point.
With fame came opportunities for collaboration, including an invitation to a Dior fashion show in Kyoto where Aki and Koichi received a makeover and ‘full VIP treatment’. Life/Style includes a stunning photo from the Dior shoot. The Kims have worked with other brands too. Collaborations have expanded their wardrobes beyond their wildest dreams – on almost every page of the book they’re wearing something different.
If you’re ready to jazz up your own style, look at their list of essentials. Aki’s include a good coat, a striped shirt, and multiple pairs of interesting glasses. Koichi opts for Japanese denim (long-lasting and often a deep inky navy), loafers, and a leather jacket. Before buying a new item of clothing, they recommend asking three questions:
1) Does it fit into your wardrobe? (Will it go well with other items you already own?)
2) How often will you actually wear it?
3) How do you feel in it? (Will it ‘give you an immediate boost of confidence’?)
Aki and Koichi offer other advice too: about sustaining a relationship, about making and keeping good friends, about parenting. Although their unexpected emergence as fashion icons has brought them fame, opportunities to travel the world, and the chance to mingle with designers, in Life/Style they come across as both real and relatable.
Their confidence took time to develop. There have been times when they’ve faced doubt, uncertainty and financial insecurity. They explain that their positive perspectives have been shaped by their faith, as well as the Japanese concept of omoiyari. Omoiyari focuses on empathy and consideration, dignity, and respect for others – similar to the value of manaakitanga here in Aotearoa.
Don’t be afraid of getting older, they say, and keep seeking new activities and experiences.
Embrace aging instead of fearing it … life is full of surprises. Keep your head up. Keep looking forward.
This is a fun book. It’s easy to read, and packed with photos that are guaranteed to raise a smile. Yet there’s a serious side to it too, and Aki and Koichi’s philosophies invite reflection. Not only their outfits but also their attitudes and outlooks are inspiring.
Reviewer: Anne Kerslake Hendricks
Epic Ink
