Finding that special gift for that special person can be time-consuming and frustrating. Whether you are shopping for a man or a woman, the two Seigo stores on Madison Avenue, between 89th and 90th Streets, make that chore, not only less difficult but also a pleasure.
Seigo’s men’s shop, at 1248 Madison Avenue, has an impressive collection of colorful men’s ties, pocket squares, and scarves. The owner, Seigo Katsuragawa, imports the high-quality ties from Japan. The woven fabrics are made on looms in small mills in Kyoto and the printed fabrics are hand-blocked silk screen printed in To-Ka Machi. Both cities have a long tradition of creating fabrics for kimonos.
The only challenge will come in deciding which tie to buy. Each one is hand sewn. In addition to classic checks and dots, there are many ties with unusual patterns and designs, some produced in a limited edition, that can be coordinated with Seigos’ exquisite pocket squares and cuff links. Scarves made from silk on one side, wool on the other, will keep the wearer warm and stylish.
Seigo Accessories, at 1242 Madison Avenue, brings together women’s jewelry and scarves from more than twenty Japanese designers. “All the items are hand-made and one of a kind,” explained Nami Ishikawa, the store’s assistant manager. Silk organza scarves may be tie-dyed with embroidery along the borders.
Necklaces, bracelets, earrings and pins reflect the personal feelings of the creator. Mai Flores, for example, loves natural shapes, said Ishikawa, so it’s no surprise to find that her earrings resemble raindrops or her pins leaves. Hisayo K. uses precious stones, Swarovski crystals, and freshwater pearls for her pieces.
Most items are priced between $100 to $200. “Everything on Madison Avenue is so expensive,” said Ishikawa. “We try to be reasonable.”









