Home / Lifestyle / Alysa Liu's Olympic Sparkle: Hirotaka Jewelry Sells Out
Alysa Liu's Olympic Sparkle: Hirotaka Jewelry Sells Out
10 May
Summary
- Alysa Liu's Olympic earring boosted Japanese designer Hirotaka's sales.
- The brand's sales surged, selling out earrings in nine Japanese boutiques.
- Hirotaka designs focus on accentuating daily style with minimalist pieces.
American figure skater Alysa Liu's gold medal-winning performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan was not only a display of athletic achievement but also a catalyst for fashion interest. During her free skate, Liu wore a distinctive silver huggie hoop with a gold ring by the contemporary Japanese fine jewelry brand, Hirotaka. This choice was recognized by social media, leading to a surge in online sales and immediate sell-outs in nine of Hirotaka's boutiques throughout Japan.
Founded in 2010 by Hirotaka Inoue, the brand is known for its minimalist designs crafted in 10-karat gold and adorned with small diamonds. Inoue's philosophy centers on creating jewelry that complements everyday style. Initially facing rejection from Henri Bendel in New York City, his work eventually gained traction with retailers like Barneys New York, showcasing his innovative use of affordable gold and the emerging trend of mismatched designs.
Today, Hirotaka offers approximately 100 designs across 30 collections, with prices ranging from $210 to $11,110. The brand is available online and in select stores globally, including Broken English in the US and Ounass in Dubai. Stylist Alicia Lombardini notes the earrings' sculptural quality and comfort, often borrowing them for celebrity clients like Sandra Oh and Cynthia Nixon. The brand is set to expand its Bird of Paradise collection in May 2026 with new designs featuring colored stones.
