We spoke with Kristy Caylor, founder and creative director of the New York brand "MAIYET," which debuted in the Fall/Winter 2012 collection, at Barneys New York (Shinjuku), the only store in Japan carrying the brand, on the occasion of her visit to Japan.

MAIYET was founded by Kristy with the aim of becoming a "new-generation luxury brand." It is an ethical brand that produces clothing by paying fair wages to artisans with traditional craftsmanship from around the world, including India, Indonesia, Peru, Colombia, Kenya, Guatemala, and Italy. The brand incorporates traditional techniques from each country, such as embroidery, sewing, and textiles, into modern, luxurious fashion. The brand produces a full line, with apparel (cut-and-sew tops, jackets, dresses, etc.) ranging from ¥50,000 to ¥360,000, bags from ¥130,000 to ¥220,000, accessories from ¥80,000 to ¥110,000, and shoes from ¥70,000 to ¥100,000. When asked why she is so committed to the brand's ethical stance, Christy explains, "To me, luxury isn't simply about being rich, but about beauty that incorporates traditional craftsmanship. Traditional techniques and craftsmanship are still hidden in many countries around the world. I believe it would be best if we could provide employment opportunities for artisans and support them in developing their skills to compete in the market." She began her fashion career at GAP. She led the global expansion of Banana Republic and served as a leader in business development in the Japanese market. She also served as president and COO of Band of Outsiders. While running a consulting firm, she also advised fair trade brands. Before founding Mayet, Christy witnessed the craftsmanship of Guatemalan artisans and wondered, "Is there a way for these traditional techniques and the luxury business to coexist?" This led her to launch her own brand. In 2010, Christy spent six months traveling the world in search of artisans to launch her brand. While there are other brands that contribute to society through fashion, Myette says, "despite the fact that there are wonderful traditional craftsmanship techniques all over the world, the current situation remains one in which they are not protected by the government and cannot be turned into a viable business."

The brand also partners with the New York-based non-profit organization NEST to discover artisans. "NEST is an organization that creates a working environment to ensure the sustainable passing on of traditional techniques, and provides various support activities such as language education programs and business etiquette training when needed. It supports the payment of equal wages and a good working environment."

Myette is stocked at Barneys in France, Galeries Lafayette in Paris, Liberty and Selfridges in London, among others.