Interview with Milktee-nu Tiara

With their frilly and lacy frocks and eye-catching style, devotees of Lolita fashion have been making the scene on the streets of Tokyo for years. Recently, this stylish subculture has taken root in America as more and more girls are discovering its beauty, romance and mystery. One of the best examples of this is the work of Milktee-nu Tiara who, with her new brand, Opera the Dream House, will be making waves in the fashion world.

Milktee-nu Tiara started out learning piano at the tender age of six. Music was always in her heart but as she grew older she found so many other things she loved. She did not want to limit herself to one thing and she worried what she would become when she was older.

What she was to become is something quite unique. A combination of musician, kawaii princess and doll. The concept of kawaii has always been important to her and it gave her confidence and kept her positive. She wanted to share her experience and feelings with others so she planned out her company and brand, Opera the Dream House. Today she manages the company and does all the creative as well. Opera the Dream House is a lolita and music brand. Milktee-nu Tiara designs all the clothing and accessories as well as composes and performs the music. She also paints, models, performs Japanese dance and continues to pursue her career as a musician as well. She sees all her work as creative and it envelops her life.

“All of life is creative, with me it is total and it is my style.”

What was your first exposure to Lolita culture and fashion? What drew you to it?

I first saw the style in a fashion magazine and during junior high school I performed in a live house as a lolita. It was during this time I realized how much I loved lolita style and culture.

Lolita fashion is not just clothing – it’s a lifestyle! There are restaurants, nightlife / bands, fashion designers, celebrities, boutiques and places where Lolitas gather and show off their style. Do you think a similar lifestyle scene will develop in the States?

Yes, I think it will develop and grow in the United States. The culture of Japan is loved all over the world. My music is now playing and is carried in a store in Los Angeles now and my clothes are starting to be sold there. It is very exciting and I am very happy. Someday I hope to be able to perform in the United States to.

What made you start your company, Opera the Dream House and what do you hope to accomplish with your brand in the future?

I love making beautiful things and people seem to love my work and give me good feedback. I think, though, there are many problems in Japan and in the world. For example a person can be lonely or not have an occupation. I want to make changes and improve the world through my work. My goal is to make the Opera the Dream House brand loved by people for a log time and I want to build it up to be able to employ people and be a positive contributor to society.

Can you tell us about the merchandise you will sell?

It makes a good and delicate dream a form. They are dresses, kimono, accessories and other things!

All your items are handmade and you do all the work yourself. How did you learn to design and sew?

I started sewing because it had always been a dream of mine. It is my passion. I believe people can do things if they just believe in themselves and try. I also like to learn other things everyday.

What are some of your favorite items you have for sale?

I have a new style of kimono out now. Anyone can wear it easily. I would like to introduce the kimono to a new audience in Japan.

Opera the Dream House is not only a fashion brand but it is a brand of music. They work hand in hand. How would you best describe your style of music?

I wanted music to work hand in hand with fashion. I wanted to give synergy to people who enjoy fashion and music together. It creates a world view of Kawaii strong! Music to dress up to!!!

What is the message you hope that people will understand about you and your brand?

It’s very positive to become Super Kawaii and I hope it is enjoyable and useful to people all over! It is a pleasure to watch someone who buys my products smile and be happy!

Where can we go to see your work and find out more about you?

My FB:  http://www.facebook.com/milkteenu

My Company FB page:  http://www.facebook.com/operathedreamhouse

My Boutique:  http://boutique.opera-the-dream-house.com/

My Music:  http://dolls.opera-the-dream-house.com/

My Company: http://opera-the-dream-house.com/

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