The Timeless Charm of “Retro Patterns”: The Commitment of Nagoya's Vintage Shop “métropolitain”

Even if you are not well-versed in the culture, there are times when you are irresistibly drawn to a vintage shop you come across by chance.

The points that highlight the appeal of vintage shops vary from person to person, but for me, it ultimately comes down to catching glimpses of the experiences and culture nurtured by the owner among the various items. The “métropolitain” in Nagoya's Osu is a shop that truly shines with the owner’s commitment and sense of style.

Specializing in ladies' items from the 1960s to 1980s, the shop primarily sources dresses, tops, and accessories procured domestically and internationally, exuding a vibrant presence. This time, I spoke with the owner, Okuse, who captivates many with their striking retro patterns.

Métropolitain, bursting with vivid mint green and items adorned with retro patterns, launched in 2004. Initially starting on the Uramon Maemachi-dori in Osu, it has since relocated to a backstreet near Osu Kannon.

“We moved to this location five years ago. When we opened, the vintage scene in Osu was gradually growing from the areas around Yabacho to Kamimaezu. I thought there was no better place for a vintage shop in Aichi Prefecture than Osu itself because people who love vintage and retro items come here seeking them, which is why I wanted to open a shop in Osu,” says Okuse.

Once you step into the store, the harmony of mint green and vivid retro patterns makes your heart flutter. At first glance, you might think the store’s color reflects Okuse's preferences, but she reveals that the main green color was determined by chance.

“Initially, I didn’t use a green like the current one; it was more focused on Showa retro themes. While searching for usable interior items for the shop, the things I gathered happened to be a green common in retro goods.

"Additionally, I recalled being told by a fortune teller that green was my lucky color, which made me feel a connection. I do not usually believe in fortunes, but the opening date of Métropolitain, April 29, 2004, being ‘Green Day’ (now Showa Day), felt somewhat fateful,” Okuse reflects.

Thus, Métropolitain was born.

While the retro-patterned items at Métropolitain are strongly reminiscent of the 1960s to 70s, items from the 80s have gradually increased in the collection.

“I choose items based on my instincts at the time. As I engaged in procurement, I found myself becoming attracted to items from the 80s as well.

"The current mint green in the shop was also changed at the time the 80s items began to increase. I thought that combining the 60s and 70s green ambiance with 80s items would disrupt the balance, so I introduced Art Deco-like mint green along with gold fixtures to maintain an overall sense of unity,” Okuse explains.

Okuse's Sensibility Enriched by Overseas Experiences and Culture

Before opening Métropolitain, Okuse worked at a vintage shop. Although it is common to hear stories of those aiming for independence working as shop staff, surprisingly, Okuse had never considered owning a shop before joining.

“I developed a genuine love for vintage during my university days, but at the time, I was conforming to standard job-seeking activities.

However, I always felt that I wanted to work in a vintage shop at least once in my life, so I got hired as a short-term staff member, and then I was invited by the president to join the team full-time.

Initially, I wanted to work on designs and utilize my own sensibilities, but I gradually came to believe that owning my own shop was the fastest route to achieve that,” Okuse shares.

After working at the vintage shop, they began a year-long overseas research trip. They started in Paris and spent the remaining six months traveling across Europe.

It's possible that the international atmosphere of the items and the shop interior at Métropolitain can be attributed to Okuse's enriched sensibility through their overseas experiences.

“From my base in Paris, I spent about six months exploring major cities where vintage could be found, including Italy, England, and the Nordic countries.

"I went abroad because I wanted to understand the local vintage culture. At that time, we weren’t in the era of the internet, so I was able to directly go to these places and deeply learn various things, which was very inspiring,” Okuse reflects.

The variety of items from the 1960s to the 1980s inside the store reflects the culture that influenced Okuse, making it quite appealing.

Okuse is well-versed in music through activities such as DJing, but are there any specific cultural influences within the 1960s to the 1980s that stand out?

"I generally like old things, but I especially love music and clothing.

"For music, I particularly enjoy 60s French pop, Yé-yé, which has a charm found in its cuteness and coolness along with a touch of weirdness.

"It's not so much that I've been influenced by the music I like; rather, my consistent preferences for 'cute things,' 'a bit strange things,' and 'things with a certain elegance' are strongly reflected in Métropolitain."

The retro patterns available at Métropolitain are very profound.

The store is filled with various designs such as psychedelic patterns, checks, geometric patterns, Art Deco, and animal prints, all of which catch the eye. The different patterns, color combinations, and textures available from each era add to the appeal of Métropolitain.

While primarily focused on women's items, there are also men's tops and outerwear available. Recently, the 70s patterned shirts and 80s patterned shirts, which are becoming harder to find, are particularly varied and popular with both men and women.

When it comes to retro patterns, one might feel hesitant due to the difficulty of coordination. In such cases, a total-pattern dress that works as a standalone outfit is highly recommended.

"Retro patterned items might seem high-barrier, but a dress coordinates effortlessly as a single piece, so I highly recommend it. At Métropolitain, we offer a wide selection of high-quality retro dresses that stand out compared to other vintage shops."

The recent boom in vintage clothing has brought even more life to the streets of Osu, with many people passing through daily. Okuse expresses a desire to continue fostering communication with both current customers and the next generation as times change.

"We've had this store with a retro pattern image for a long time, and while there are changes over time, I always want to make sure my sense doesn't become outdated.

"For example, the concept of retro may evolve over time, and I hope to be able to propose something meaningful to the younger generation during that period. It's a bit vague, but I always aspire to maintain a fresh perspective and continue running the store."

Métropolitain in Osu, rich in retro patterns that one might want to try at least once, attracts many visitors from all over the country because they trust Okuse's selection and sense for items.

If you're looking for a retro pattern that suits you, I highly recommend visiting at least once. You'll surely be captivated by the unique garments that feel full of stories.