Atsui Tokyo knows what's big in Japan

Fashion-savvy Japanese-born attorney Masako Kanazawa had trouble finding clothes she liked when she moved to Seattle, so she stocked up on her favorite brands every time she visited home. Soon, envious friends were sending her to Japan with their personal shopping lists, and the next logical step was the creation of the Tokyo-centric downtown store she just opened with partner Jay Doughten.

Atsui Tokyo stocks a fresh collection of men's and women's clothing, all from Tokyo designers, including many brands not available anywhere else in Seattle. Hysteric Glamour's street-chic T-shirts (starting at $120) and jeans ($320) are designed by veteran Tokyo fashion icon and Sofia Coppola pal Nobu Kitamura. Citrus Notes offers artfully tailored, feminine suiting ($547 for a jacket, $325 for trousers) and Filly O'Lynx styles run to delicately lacy cardigans ($185) and mod paisley minidresses ($276).

The men's selection will win over guys who have trouble with the boxy shirts so common to Seattle. Japanese fashion, like European, adheres to the skinnier-is-better theory. Cuts from Mr. Olive, like that of a red plaid button-down short-sleeve shirt ($152), run slimmer than most American styles.

The shop, which is just around the corner from the Alexis Hotel, has plenty of space to browse, red and white leather couches and chairs for lounging, a stash of Japanese fashion magazines and a croc-embossed front counter. While the current selection is spendy, new brands will pour in this fall and winter, including some more affordable options.