Creating Tour de Couture has been a labor of love and passion for Nicole Reina and the team behind making these films. Our “behind the scenes” posts take a closer look at the people that came together to turn mere ideas into reality.
In the first episode of the docu-series, Nicole and fellow fashion enthusiast, Tziporah Salamon savor the poignant and melancholic moments of an iconic hotel's last days. Capturing the corridors of Hotel Okura in their striking vintage attire, they later embark on a tour of Tokyo, Japan, soaking in the city's incomparable street style.
Tziporah and Nicole in their vintage kimonos.
Unveiled to the world in 1962, the Okura became a perfectly preserved time capsule for travelers and mid-century enthusiasts, offering an understated aesthetic appeal and inimitable "omotenashi" (Japanese hospitality). Impeccably dressed in traditional kimonos, tuxedos and bow ties, staff members purposefully roamed the hallways with an exquisite approach to service. Complete with amenities that included a tea ceremony room and chess salon, it is without doubt the Okura earned its reputation as "one of the most loved modernist hotels in the world".
The second episode of Tour de Couture takes us to a Caribbean island nation. Accompanied by American menswear fashion designer, Jonathan Skow (also known as Mr. Turk), the two travelers explore Havana and beyond to revel in the architecture, culture, and signature style of Cuba.
Nicole and Jonathan enjoying some of Cuba’s distinct sounds.
A once burgeoning economy that served as a catalyst for its development in the early 1900s, the country is now a living testament to the historical repercussions that Communism has had on its people. Nevertheless, Cuba is home to a young generation of creatives that are trying to find the balance between maintaining their culture, traditions, and history with embracing tourism, globalization, and socio-economic change.
Join Nicole Reina and Tziporah Salamon on a journey of historic preservation as they document the last days of Hotel Okura Tokyo’s main wing. Soaking in the quintessential midcentury style and design of the hotel, the stylish pair also partake in Japanese traditions and culture first-hand on this whirlwind trip to Tokyo.
Read MoreJoin Nicole Reina and Jonathan Skow on a trip back in time. Exploring Havana’s midcentury architecture and unique culture, the two travelers meet locals, learn how to salsa dance, and get a chance to express their creativity in fashion-forward photoshoots that showcase their mutual love of vintage style.
Read MoreA behind the scenes look at what went into creating the first episode of Tour de Couture in Tokyo. Learn more about the cast, crew, and process behind the making of the film.
Read MoreA behind the scenes look at what went into creating the second episode of Tour de Couture in Havana. Learn more about the cast, crew, and process behind the making of the film.
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