A Visvim in my backyard? 

What if I told you that you don’t have to go to Japan or depend on some random online retailer to buy stuff from Visvim, your favorite Lux-ster (Luxury + Hipster) brand? Hell, you don’t even have to get on a plane, as long as you live in or around San Francisco.

Hiroki Nakamura, the founder of Visvim, recently moved to Carmel by the Sea, California, and has now opened a brand-new store in the city. It’s a minimal and beautiful store, very reflective of Visvim’s minimal aesthetic. Most of their stores are sparse, eclectic, and have a sense of whimsy.

The Japanese menswear brand was founded by Nakamura at the turn of the century. Since then, he has started a womenswear line known as WMV. Before starting Visvim, Nakamura worked as a designer at Burton Snowboards. Visvim began as a shoe brand, and that’s when I fell in love with their shoes and boots, especially those inspired by Native American moccasins.

Visvim clothing never really appealed to me. Maybe it’s because the Japanese-sized clothing isn’t a good fit for my body. However, I did love their shoes and bags. I had a pair of boots that I sold for a tidy profit — someone wanted them that badly. I worked with a custom bootmaker to make the same boot, which was a perfect fit. I still wear it all the time. I do love my Visvim slip-on sneakers. I have a pair in mint green color — they are so comfortable and perfect for summer days.

My own style choices have become simpler, and it’s no surprise I don’t feel an emotional connection with the brand anymore. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t make beautiful and wonderful things. The clothing, shoes, and everything else is of immaculate quality. That said, since those early days when I first discovered the brand, it has become ridiculously popular — and its prices are really out of whack with reality.

Still, if you like Visvim and have time, you should check out the store. It’s pretty amazing. It’s located at San Carlos Street, 3NW of 6th Avenue, Carmel, CA 93921. And if you do go there, check out Stationaery at 42 San Carlos Street. They have amazing food, great coffee, and a wonderful selection of house candles.

November 12, 2023. San Francisco