If you like a lot of people, you likely ended up doing some major purging this year while uttering the phrase, “does this spark joy?” at the hands of Marie Kondo. Kondo’s Netflix show, “Tidying Up With Marie Kondo” came to life after the success of her book, “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing.”
And now, though you have already de-cluttered and sparked all that joy, Kondo wants to bring some items, joyful ones, straight to your home from her new e-commerce site. While most of the items are beautiful, some are very pricey and others? Well, I’m not sure what they are or what they do.
Leather Room Shoes // $206.00
“An essential element of Japanese life, room shoes are synonymous with the comforts of home. This elegant pair is a step above slippers. Designed for daily wear by women and men, they are handmade in Tokyo from soft, suede-like leather that is both durable and washable; a padded lining cushions every step. ”
Binchotan Charcoal //$18.00
“For centuries, artisans in Japan’s Kishu region have been burning ubame oak branches to yield binchotan – charcoal renowned for its purifying properties. These sticks can be used to filter water, bring out flavor while cooking rice, absorb odors in rooms and refrigerators or give a healthy boost to soil in gardens or potted plants. Each quarter-pound bag can purify up to one gallon of water and will retain its effectiveness for at least three months.”
French Market Tote //$60.00
“A Medina Mercantile signature, this French market classic is handwoven in Morocco from date palm leaves, creating a rich herringbone texture of sturdy natural fibers. A reinforced top edge provides added durability for carrying groceries, laundry and other daily essentials.”
Ladle // $96.00
“In the Japanese city of Setouchi, Ruka “Lue” Kikuchi crafts utensils and accessories out of gleaming brass – a material that becomes more interesting with use and time. This handmade ladle is an elegant way to serve soups, sauces and dressings. Each step of its making – from cutting and hammering to welding and polishing – is carried out by Kikuchi himself, creating a useful and enduring keepsake.”
Balance Gem Water Bottle // $98.00
“Made in the German Alps, VitaJuwel vessels contain handcrafted, interchangeable vials of fair-trade gemstones. They are said to infuse the powers of gemstones into water while restoring it to a more pure state. This lead-free glass bottle features an icy blue pod of sodalite, chalcedony and clear quartz – a blend designed to bring mind, body and spirit into harmony. The stainless steel top screws on securely for on-the-go hydration.”
