The first collaboration project between Felissimo and Takami Matsumoto, which began in the fall of 2024, featured products incorporating Matsumoto's unique fashion sense and relatable "experiences of the adult generation," and was a huge success, with many saying, "Yes, this is exactly what I wanted!" Now, the long-awaited third collaboration is finally complete! After the photoshoot, in which Watanabe Marina beautifully modeled the items, the two discussed their particular points of focus while looking at the newly completed items.
ドッキングプリーツワンピース
"It's as comfortable as loungewear, yet it has enough formality to be worn to a memorial service. I really want you to try this dress on and experience its charm for yourself!"
by Marina Watanabe
――――This "Straight-cut, beautifully balanced pleated dress with mixed materials" has a really beautiful silhouette, and there were comments like "It's gorgeous!" during the photoshoot.
Marina Watanabe (hereinafter, Ms. Watanabe):
The silhouette is truly beautiful, and it made me feel great when I wore it. I've always thought that dresses tend to be either comfortable but sweet and fluffy, or elegant but restrictive. But as you get older, sweet designs don't suit you anymore, and restrictive designs become unbearable (laughs). I think this dress fulfills the adult wish of "comfortable to wear, but also looks beautiful!"
Takami Matsumoto (hereinafter, Matsumoto):
The combination of a compact, knit-like top on top and a flowing, accordion-pleated bottom creates a striking contrast in textures, making the outfit look very flattering. The fine stripe pattern and the visual diffusion effect of the accordion pleats draw the eye away with every movement, making the lower body appear slimmer.
Watanabe-san:
Personally, I prefer a higher waistline, but if it's too high it can look childish, so I had it adjusted to a moderately high position. The design also features a slight overlap between the top and skirt sections, which helps to conceal the waistline. Even slight differences, down to the millimeter, in details like shoulder position, sleeve length, and neckline height can make a huge difference in appearance, so we went through numerous prototypes to find the best silhouette. The best thing about this dress is that you really have to wear it to understand its appeal, so I hope you'll try it on and experience it for yourself.
Mr. Matsumoto:
A subtle detail is the vertical seam down the center of the front and back of the top. Just having a line in this spot makes the upper body look much more streamlined. The fit is also exquisite; it's comfortable to wear, yet looks neat and tidy. We've also paid attention to ensuring there's enough room so that you don't look bulky even when wearing warm innerwear underneath.
Watanabe-san:
For adults, staying warm in winter is definitely important. The knit material of the top is just the right thickness, but not heavy. When you put your thumbs through the secret thumbholes at the cuffs, your hands stay warm all the way to the back. The design makes the holes less noticeable when you don't put your thumbs through, so I think you can wear it with a clean and neat look.
Mr. Matsumoto:
Since we're at an age where we can't stand restrictive formal wear (laughs), we often discuss the "what adults should wear to memorial services" dilemma, and I think this black dress would be perfect for such occasions. It looks proper but is actually very comfortable, so it doesn't cause stress even when worn for long periods of time, and because it has accordion pleats, it's less likely to wrinkle even when sitting cross-legged, in a chair, or traveling for long periods, which is a great bonus.
Watanabe-san:
It's easy to carry and easy to care for, so it's perfect for visiting family or traveling. Having one in your suitcase would be incredibly useful.
Mr. Matsumoto:
As you get older, you start to feel a bit lazy about things (lol), and there are days when you think, "I have no idea what to wear today!" But if you have this dress in your closet, I think it will be a reliable ally. It's a special item that I'm confident in, and you can look stylish just by slipping it on without thinking about anything.
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Layered-look top with defined silhouette
"For those who love layering shirts but have been avoiding it because of their age... this is for you! We've incorporated features that make it easy for adults to wear."
by Takami Matsumoto
This "layered-look top" has a white collar that catches the eye, giving it a clean and elegant impression.
Watanabe-san:
Layering shirts is so cute, isn't it? I've always loved it too, but white shirts themselves can sometimes look a bit student-like or childish, so lately I've found it difficult to style them. This time, drawing on my own experiences, I tackled the question of "how can I create layered styles that are easy for adults to wear?" step by step.
Mr. Matsumoto:
First and foremost, the biggest challenge was to avoid making it "too cute," so I made the collar angle sharp to create a more refined impression. Also, I know that many people, especially those going through menopause, dislike the bulkiness of layering clothes or the tightness of shirts, so I created a playful layered-look design with a docking mechanism.
Mr Watanabe :
This top is incredibly comfortable thanks to the soft, stretchy feel of the knit fabric, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed fit from the moment you put it on. It's easy to slip on and creates a perfectly balanced look, making it a great choice even for those who struggle with layering.
Mr. Matsumoto:
The cuffs can be left as they are or folded back for a different look. The white part of the hem of the combined shirt looks cute worn as is, or you can tuck it into your bottoms to hide the white part, which I think is also stylish.
Watanabe-san:
Personally, I don't like tops that are too tight around the chest, so I was very particular about the fit, making sure it wasn't too snug. I'm extremely happy with how it turned out; it has just the right amount of room that doesn't cling to the upper body, yet still looks sleek when worn.
Mr. Matsumoto:
The back is also loosely fitted, so it looks really nice. I'm happy that it doesn't show the lines of flesh that tend to spill out from underwear. The opening at the back of the neck is also designed with overlapping fabric so that the innerwear you're wearing underneath doesn't show. As you get older, there are more and more things you want to hide (laughs).
Watanabe-san:
These tops instantly brighten up even simple pants or skirts, making them perfect for those who find T-shirts or plain tops too dull. They're such a versatile item that we hope you'll collect several for washing and changing, so we've carefully selected three colors that are perfect for adults.
Mr. Matsumoto:
It would look great with a brooch, and it seems like it could be styled both casually and elegantly. I love layering shirts, but I've been avoiding it for age reasons... I'd love for you to try this. What suits you and what feels comfortable changes with age, but I'm sure there are things you can solve with a little ingenuity. I want to say that you don't have to give up on the style you love, no matter how old you are!
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Cable knit cardigan
"We've given cable knit sweaters, which tend to look a bit too cozy, a sharp look through the sizing and design!"
by Marina Watanabe
This cable knit cardigan has a sharp, sophisticated look despite being knit, giving off a handsome impression.
Watanabe-san:
This is really cool, isn't it? I love the perfect compact size, and I also like that it can be worn neatly like a jacket.
Mr. Matsumoto:
Cable knit sweaters are lovely, but they can sometimes be a little too sweet, so I chose colors that are playful but not overly cute. Navy, gray, and green are all sharp, slimming colors that make you look neat and tidy just by wearing them.
Watanabe-san:
If the cable knit is too wide or covers too much area, the overall impression becomes soft and stretched out, so we were very particular about the width of the cuffs and ribbing. We also added white-gray lines to make it stand out, so it's all about creating a nice contrast!
Mr. Matsumoto:
The fact that the lines are white-gray instead of white is also a key point. Because it's a bit muted, dirt is less noticeable (laughs). I also wanted the front to look sharp, so I used a concealed snap button placket that isn't visible from the front, giving it a clean look. It's easy to fasten and unfasten with a simple click, so it's also recommended for people who find fastening small buttons stressful due to menopause or trigger finger.
Watanabe-san:
You can wear it buttoned up like a knit top, or open like a jacket – both are cute. When you leave it open, the grosgrain ribbon on the placket peeks out, adding a sophisticated touch. Just adding it to a simple outfit like a T-shirt and jeans will instantly give you a more refined look.
Mr. Matsumoto:
It looks great even if you just fasten the top button and drape it over your shoulders. There's a wide range of sizes available, so of course you can choose the size that best suits your body type, but it's also fun to choose based on the silhouette you want to achieve, whether you want a snug fit or a looser fit.
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Leg-flattering checkered pants
"For those new to patterned clothing, starting with bottoms is an easy and recommended way to incorporate them! Rectangular checks have an excellent leg-lengthening effect."
by Takami Matsumoto
-- "Slimming checkered pants" are,Pants that were a huge hit last yearYou could say it's an updated version of the previous one.
Watanabe-san:
Created for the first collaboration projectチェックパンツThe previous pair was very well-received, and my family and the girls at my office also love wearing them, so we decided to make checked pants again! The previous pair was made of a rather sturdy material, but this time, we used a material that is moderately thick and stretchy so that it can be enjoyed for a longer season.
Mr. Matsumoto:
These pants look like wool, but they're actually made of a stretchy jersey material that's incredibly easy to move in. The large check pattern, based on rectangles, has an amazing vertical stretching effect when you wear them! Just putting them on without thinking about it creates a flattering silhouette and makes your legs look surprisingly beautiful. Some people might be hesitant about patterns, but this check pattern has a dark base color, making it very easy to coordinate. It looks sophisticated just by pairing it with a basic colored top, so if you're an adult looking to try patterned clothing, I recommend starting with bottoms.
Watanabe-san:
The relaxed, wide fit and straight, flowing silhouette are still present in this version. In addition, tucks have been added just outside the waistline to further emphasize the draping silhouette. The double-folded hem is another key feature; the slight weight at the bottom creates a taut, elongated silhouette, making your legs look even more beautiful. Rolling up hems can be tricky to achieve the right balance, but these pants are designed this way from the start, so you can look stylish just by wearing them.
Mr. Matsumoto:
As we get older and our bodies become rounder, clothes with more linear elements tend to create a better balance. If you like cute designs but feel like your current wardrobe doesn't suit you anymore, I highly recommend trying out some menswear-inspired items like these. You might unexpectedly discover a new side of yourself.
Watanabe-san:
The fact that it's a pull-on type that you just slip on is incredibly convenient. Plus, the fake pockets are placed slightly higher on the hips, which draws the eye upwards and makes your back look really neat.
Mr. Matsumoto:
It would definitely go well with basic colors like black, beige, and gray, but the bright red knit that Marina was wearing today was also super cute!
Watanabe-san:
Check patterns have a variety of colors, so they're surprisingly easy to match with both basic and statement colors. If you're someone who always wears denim, I think having a pair of pants like these will really broaden your styling options.
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Silk blend turtleneck knit top
"A glimpse of vibrant color is a pleasure only adults can enjoy! It has an elegant, high-class feel, yet can be worn like a T-shirt."
by Marina Watanabe
—This "impressive color silk-blend turtleneck knit top" is said to be full of the couple's playful spirit within its simple design.
Mr. Matsumoto:
Simple and basic clothes can make your face look flat, which is surprisingly difficult for adults. This top, however, brightens up your face with a subtle accent color on the inside of the neck and sleeves.
Watanabe-san:
Simply wearing it without thinking too much about it, a beautiful color peeks out from around the neck and wrists. It's really cute, and it instantly brightens up a simple outfit.
Mr. Matsumoto:
I'm sure most of you already own a plain turtleneck sweater, so if you're looking to buy a second one, I'd love for you to try a playful top like this. Even if you've always wanted to wear bright colors like red or blue but haven't had the courage, I think this design is easy to incorporate into your wardrobe.
Watanabe-san:
The fact that the knit is a flat jersey knit rather than a rib knit gives it a sophisticated and elegant impression. It's very stretchy, light, and comfortable, so it's recommended for those who don't like tight-fitting clothes. If the knit is too loose, the neckline can droop, but this neckline has an exquisite structure that maintains a natural height. The accent color of the lining is clearly visible, but the design is so well done that it doesn't look sloppy.
Mr. Matsumoto:
Since it's a knit top, you can of course wear it on its own, but it's also super cute to incorporate it as an inner layer, such as under a dress or under overalls like Marina is wearing today. There's a wide range of sizes available, so please choose the silhouette you like best.
Watanabe-san:
Its moderately compact and well-defined silhouette makes it a good match for voluminous wide-leg pants and skirts. It's also recommended as a refreshing item for those who tend to wear plain t-shirts and cut-and-sew tops every day. While it has a playful touch, the item itself is simple, so it might actually be the item you wear most often.
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Five-star necklace with magnifying glass
"A magnifying glass that doubles as an accessory is awesome! You can't stop the changes in your body, so let's embrace them in a stylish and positive way!"
by Marina Watanabe
The "Five-Star Necklace with Magnifying Glass and Makie-Style Shell Pearl, Each Hand-Painted by an Artisan" is the first accessory to be featured in this collaboration project.
Watanabe-san:
One common problem for adults is difficulty reading small print. This magnifying glass necklace is truly revolutionary! It's a playful item that satisfies both practicality and style.
Mr. Matsumoto:
I can't see small print at all either, and I can't even remember the last time I could read it... (laughs). When I'm looking at food labels while shopping, or reading the instructions on the back of cosmetics, I think a magnifying glass is absolutely essential. Also, lately I've been ordering at restaurants more often using my smartphone, but the text on those menus is pretty small too...
Watanabe-san:
I know exactly what you mean! I've been finding that the text on social media is often too small to read (laughs). That's when a magnifying glass integrated into a necklace comes in handy; you can quickly read it with one hand. Plus, the design is super cute! I'd want to wear this as a fashion item even on days when I'm not using the magnifying glass.
Mr. Matsumoto:
Magnifying glasses and adult eyeglasses are often difficult to quickly access when needed. You might forget them at home or have to rummage through your bag to find them... but if you keep them within easy reach, you'll be freed from the stress of constantly worrying about where your magnifying glass is.
Watanabe-san:
My mother is always looking for a magnifying glass, so I'm definitely going to give her this necklace as a gift.
Mr. Matsumoto:
The maki-e style pearls, each hand-painted by an artisan, add a touch of sophistication, and the design is very mature. It looks great paired with a simple top, and I think it would also look stylish layered with a shorter necklace.
Watanabe-san:
Another great feature is that it offers five different ways to use it, including wearing your own glasses or a mask, or even using it without a magnifying glass. Having just one will allow you to enjoy a variety of arrangements.
Mr. Matsumoto:
Since we can't stop our bodies from changing, there's no point in resisting it or feeling sad about it. It would be fun to actively incorporate items like these and deal with it in a stylish and positive way.
- Items to wear
- *You will be redirected to the Felissimo official website.
Adult women enjoy life with a playful spirit and a good balance! We asked them for their secrets to shining in their own unique way without forcing it.
"The most important thing is whether you feel happy when you're wearing it. With a little ingenuity, your fashion options will expand dramatically!"
by Takami Matsumoto
Thank you again for sharing your passionate thoughts on each item. As I listened to you both, the words "playfulness" and "balance" came up quite often.
Watanabe-san:
That's certainly true. I think the overarching theme of this collaboration is "comfortable to wear, yet neat and tidy," and perhaps the technique needed to achieve that is "contrast." We hope you enjoy the various kinds of contrast, such as a soft feel against the skin but a compact silhouette, an oversized silhouette with slimming details, or a simple design with accent colors.
Mr. Matsumoto:
"Playfulness" is something we've always valued since this collaboration project started. When it comes to fashion, we tend to be conscious of "how we're perceived," and of course that's important, but I think "how you feel" is also very important. If your favorite color is subtly incorporated, or if there are details you love, and even if no one else notices, if wearing it lifts your spirits or makes you happy when you open your closet, I think that's wonderful.
Watanabe-san:
When you're young, you can easily try out any fashion style, but as you get older, the things you can wear gradually decrease. You start to think things like, "This design might be too youthful," or "This color doesn't suit me," or "I don't have the courage to wear this pattern..." and the number of negative reasons increases. But, as with this collaboration project, I think it's definitely possible to create items that adults can enjoy by just slightly adjusting the design and silhouette. You can keep that feeling of love and excitement, and keep evolving the parts that can be changed to suit adults better.
Mr. Matsumoto:
Even though there aren't any loose-fitting designs in this collaboration, they actually all feel very comfortable to wear (laughs). We've incorporated lots of clever ideas and techniques to make it "easy to look stylish." Felissimo and we have thought this through together, so you don't have to think about it at all; just wear them and you're good to go. Please feel free to try them out and enjoy fashion freely.
Watanabe-san:
I believe that adult fashion doesn't need to be forced, but it's better to have fun while you're at it. I'm the same way, especially in winter, because you're going to wear an outer layer anyway, so you tend to neglect your style, thinking that the clothes underneath don't matter. But if you always wear clothes that you just picked out haphazardly, it's hard to feel good about yourself. I think it would be great if we could add a little playfulness to our style and satisfy our sense of fashion together.
Mr. Matsumoto:
If wearing it makes you feel happy, then I think it's the best outfit. I hope that through these collaborative items, you can experience together how much the possibilities of fashion can expand with just a little ingenuity. Let's enjoy all kinds of fashion together this autumn and winter!
"Adult Women's Society" @otonanojoshikai
Maki Nomiya, Takami Matsumoto, and Marina Watanabe are all active in a wide range of fields. These three women, who are five years apart in age and enjoying a vibrant menopausal life, hit it off and started "The Adult Women's Club." With the motto "Let's enjoy life from our 50s onward!", it's a positive and happy project that takes on various challenges.
