Continued from 1/2.

--It's sometimes said that Japanese women aren't very good at using jewelry.

Not at all! Japanese taste is truly wonderful, and even the way food is presented is truly beautiful. Even traditional things seem very modern to me, and Japanese culture is full of surprises. I'm truly impressed.

--I heard you enjoyed your trip to Kyoto during your recent visit to Japan.

That's right. I took lots of photos. This is a photo of the yukata sash that was neatly tied and waiting for me in my room. I'd heard that the lattice windows of the townhouse are old, but to me they seemed very modern. Even the teacups were adorable, and I was constantly amazed.

In Europe and the United States, there are many historic buildings, but they are very decorative. Japanese homes, on the other hand, are simple, beautiful, and far more modern. They also use natural materials skillfully. I particularly liked the tatami mats.

The same goes for food. Japanese meals are much more refined and thoughtfully prepared. Cutting carrots into the shape of flowers! The Japanese garden and rock garden are a wonderful combination, and while they're neatly swept, they still have a natural feel. It's truly beautiful and inspiring, and I want to extend my stay. I'd like to see more of Kyoto, and also visit Okinawa. I've fallen in love with Japan.

--I'm happy. Also, has receiving this prestigious award changed anything for you?

Nothing! (laughs) It was a valuable experience to be able to participate in such a lavish ceremony at the magnificent Buckingham Palace, and my mother said she was proud of me, but otherwise nothing has changed. Everyone at the venue was a doctor, firefighter, or someone who works as a volunteer or helps others. I found myself wondering, "What am I doing here?" But I was happy that costume jewelry attracted attention.

--But there are also women who feel empowered by wearing your jewelry.

I didn't grow up in the UK, so I didn't know about the medal, and when I first received the letter, I was so worried, thinking, "What? Is there a problem with my taxes? Or have I broken some law?" (laughs). But when my husband read the letter, he was floored. The letter asked, "Do you want to accept this medal?" It also detailed the procedures you must go through to receive the award, and even how to walk, bow, and behave at the award ceremony. When I read it, I realized it must be a difficult undertaking, but I didn't think it would change the way I work as a designer.

--Finally, what have been the challenges in continuing the brand so far?

I think the biggest challenge has been keeping it going as a business. As a designer, you want to make what you want to make, and it would be unfortunate if you just made a lot of things that sell. It's especially difficult these days to be both creative and commercially successful.

Currently, in addition to our own store in London, we also have brand corners in department stores in major European cities. I think we've been able to grow to this extent because we met an excellent business partner. He handles all the business aspects, which is very important. Business and creation can sometimes be at odds, but overcoming that is necessary to keep the brand going.