Our Story

Founded in New Orleans in 2013, Kawaii NOLA is devoted to the creative & fun-loving lifestyle of the young-hearted. Although originally opened as a brick-&-mortar retail boutique on Magazine Street in the heart of New Orleans, we closed our storefront in 2019. We are now primarily an online retailer, traveling to special events for pop-ups, conventions, & festivals.

When you take a peek at our shop, you won't be able to help smiling! You will be transported to a world of cute & lovable accessories that will color your life & brighten up your style. We are passionate about sharing our deep love of Japan & kawaii culture with New Orleans. We recognize that there's a youthful & fun-loving side to everyone, & we want to explore & discover that magic along with you.

We find joy in a superb shopping experience, offering unique, kawaii products. Our mission is to blend the colorful fashion & shopping culture of Tokyo with New Orleans' love for revelry & celebration of everyday moments. Our core values are creativity, optimism, & respect. We hope to see you soon at a special event near you. Follow us on Instagram @kawaiinola & check back often for more updates!

At the Kawaii NOLA boutique back in 2018

Kanako Asai | Owner & Founder 

Guilty pleasure: Curling up with a good book and tuning out the world

Secretly wants to be: A witch like Kiki from Kiki’s Delivery Service

Can’t live without: Coffee, coffee, COFFEE!

Favorite Kawaii item: Anything Donutella by Tokidoki

Fun fact: Loves to craft as a way to de-stress