Asawa Tie Belt (Archived Material) in Cotton Canvas

This is our old, discontinued Cotton Canvas.

UPDATE: This style will be retiring soon. After careful consideration and discussion with Emi (who this garment was named in collaboration with several years ago), it no longer feels appropriate to produce this style. After a year of spiked anti-Asian violence across the nation, as a white maker this is not a garment I would design and release today. It feels appropriate and healthy to phase it out at this time as both my internal awareness and understanding along with external circumstances have changed. There are a number of Asawa Tie belts that are already cut; those belts will be sewn and listed for sale, and when they’re gone, they’re gone. No new Asawa Tie Belts will be cut to be sold. All proceeds from the final sales of this style will be redistributed to AAPI Women Lead.

Named in collaboration with Emi Ito after Japanese-American sculptor Ruth Asawa, this tie belt draws on elements of the traditional obi, but also brings in references to traditional menswear and art deco wraps and sashes. Asawa's work suggests the infinite curvature of the human form, transformation of shape, and manipulation of volume—all of which resonate deeply with our intention of adding belts to to our catalog.

Use this piece to metamorphose our most oversized, fluid garments into new and transformative shapes. Subtle curves or dramatic cinching add endless options to your wardrobe. Widest at the center, this belt tapers gently towards the ends. Wrap it around your waist twice, knotting or tying it into a bow in the front or off to the side for a more asymmetrical look. Or go a different direction, and wear it like a cummerbund knotted in the back with romantic, trailing ends. It's a statement piece that feels immediately secure and substantial on the body. And after an indulgent meal, all you have to do is loosen the knot a bit—no need to feel restricted.

My favorite way to wear this is in monochromatic outfits with a matching jacket or dress, but contrast is also eye-catching. Use it to close open-front jackets or to completely transform the look of our boxier styles like the Georgia or Harper.