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Courtney Price founded Elka Collective in 2014 after working as a graphic designer for other fashion labels. But her affinity and passion for art, interiors and design, drove her to create cherishable wardrobe pieces that play on classic silhouettes with a contemporary aesthetic.
Now, through signature tailoring, striking outerwear and sophisticated separates, her collections craft an accessibly luxurious curation of pieces to hold onto, just as she always wanted for herself.
With a deep appreciation for premium craftsmanship and the role of art in fashion, she heads to Japan’s capital to explore a world of tradition and bustling creativity. Sharing her highlights with GRAZIA, Price spills on all the best places to stop on a tour of Tokyo.
Below, her quickie guide to doing Tokyo in style.
Why were you in Tokyo?
I was visiting Tokyo to explore garment design and inspiration for retail interiors & architecture for our new Australian stores. I’m particularly drawn to the Japanese design approach, which prioritises both form and function across a multitude of design disciplines.
Where did you stay in Tokyo?
I was lucky enough to mix business & pleasure on this trip. To start off, I stayed at the Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel, which is great for business travel as it’s located in the centre of Shibuya.
I then had a few nights at Trunk Hotel—a gorgeous boutique hotel wedged between Shibuya and Harajuku, with a focus on shared creative communal spaces.
Other places to stay for future trips would be the Luxe Aman Hotel and The Tokyo Edition.
Where did you eat/drink while you were in Tokyo?
There are so many amazing places to eat if you’re wandering through Shibuya and Harajuku. Harajuku Gyozaro is a must for a quick authentic Japanese lunch, be prepared to line up, though!
Margaret Howell also has a great Café within their Shibuya store. If you are wanting a slice of home, you can visit Bills on the 7th Floor of Tokyu Plaza Omotesando.
There is a bookstore in Daikanyama called The Tsutaya, They have the most expansive collection of design, fashion, interior, and music books and magazines. You can sit upstairs in the lounge and have a drink while you read through your purchases.
Another great place to grab a quick bite in Daikanyama is Isshin & Izakaya in Minato City if you are looking for a great authentic Japanese lunch.
Where are your favourite places to shop?
There are amazing shopping spots in Shinjuku, Omotesando Hills, and Minato City, Aoyama.
My top stores to visit when I am in Tokyo are the Isetan Shinjuku Women’s Department Store. They have a mix of amazing local and international designers.
Omotesando Hills is a great strip for your luxury brands—Loewe, Bottega Veneta, Jil Sander, LV, Acne Studios, + your mini Japanese department stores like Beams & Tomorrowland.
Drop into the Cibone basement level after you’ve finished Omotesando Hills. They sell a beautiful range of eclectic homewares and ceramics.
I adore spending the afternoon in Minato City Aoyama, stores like Lemaire (With amazing book store above), Prada, H Beauty and Youth has a great mix of luxury ready-to-wear pieces, street style & beauty products. Loveless also has a great collection of international and local brands
If you’re in Ginza & Marunouchi, visit Dover St Market, Tomorrowland, and The Tokyo & L’Appartment stores.
Favourite things to do in Tokyo?
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the Team Lab Planets Gallery in Koto City—there are four large-scale artwork spaces and two gardens. It’s an immersive experience designed to blur the boundaries of art and perception.
Other great galleries for exhibitions are the Mori Art Museum, which showcases the most incredible views of Tokyo & The National Art Centre.
Curators Cube is another great boutique gallery to drop into, and I also love visiting the Oedo Antique Market, which is only open 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month—amazing for local homeware vintage finds.
