It's lightweight and easy to carry around. It makes you want to go all sorts of places.
PROFILE
She works as a model and appears in a variety of media, including advertisements, magazines, and fashion brand lookbooks. During her college years, she was dedicated to karate and holds an amateur boxing license. Her hobbies include listening to music and cycling, and she immerses herself in cultures that offer a wealth of depth and variety.
—How do you usually spend your days off?
Shimajima:I often ride my bike around town. Since moving to the eastern part of Tokyo, I’ve started going to places like Nihonbashi, Kanda, Hatchobori, and Ginza quite often. I like to visit soba restaurants and coffee shops, or just pop into places that catch my eye. Ginza might have a high-end image, but there are actually plenty of casual spots there, and I feel completely satisfied just wandering around the neighborhood at my own pace.
—I hear you’re quite the music buff, too.
Shimajima:My mom had a big influence on me. When I was a kid, bossa nova was always playing in the car. Back then, I didn’t even know what genre it was—I just listened to it. But when I became an adult and thought, “Oh, I know this song,” I started looking it up, and from there, I just got more and more hooked (laughs). We have a turntable at home, too, so I really enjoy buying records and taking the time to listen to them.
—You have some pretty unique hobbies, don't you?
Shimajima:People often say that (laughs). I’ve always had a bit of an otaku streak. Back in elementary school, I used to draw my own illustrations, and my artwork was even published in a boys’ magazine once. But when I started middle school, I realized there were people even more talented than me, and that really discouraged me. I still regret that to this day—I wish I’d kept at it.
—Why don't we just start over from now?
Shimajima:Lately, I've been really into creating collage designs. I've also been making my own animated videos. It's still just a hobby at this point, but I hope it will come together someday.
—What kind of fashion style do you like?
Shimajima:I usually stick to really simple outfits, like a T-shirt and jeans. I do wear more feminine clothes for photo shoots, but if I’m choosing for myself, I always end up going for a boyish style. Part of it is that it’s comfortable, but I just feel like that style suits me better. Rather than following a single fashion icon, I’m often influenced by the way people I see on the street or my close friends dress.
—In that case, it sounds like you’re pretty particular about the bags you use every day, too.
Shimajima:I like lightweight bags. Durability is also important. Since I often have to carry my audition book and a change of clothes for work, it’s important that they can hold a lot.
Also, since I usually listen to music while I’m on the go, it’s handy to have a small pocket where I can quickly grab my AirPods. Design is important, of course, but when it comes to things I use every day, I might end up prioritizing functionality. It would be great if they were durable and easy to use—and had a nice design, too.
—What were your impressions after trying out “DAY TRIPPER”?
Shimajima:I was surprised that the bag hardly moved at all, even while I was riding my bike. My usual shoulder bag tends to slide forward, so I have to readjust it all the time, but the “DAY TRIPPER” doesn’t do that. I find that really appealing.
—With its elongated shape, it is designed to fit the body snugly.
Shimajima:It didn't get in the way of my legs at all, so it was really easy to drive. It has mesh pockets on the sides, so it's great for storing things like your smartphone or even your earbud case.
He keeps a bottle in the mesh pocket on the side. Mr. Shimajima’s belongings—including his smartphone decked out with stickers and a keychain he picked up at a friend’s thrift store—have a lively, unique vibe.
—This special edition, created to commemorate the 20th anniversary, features lightweight ripstop nylon as its main material. The mesh side pockets are another detail unique to this special model. Plus, it’s “Made in the USA.”
Shimajima:I really like “Made in the USA.” Whether it’s clothes or music, I love learning about the history and stories behind them, so I’m naturally drawn to products with that kind of background.
—Do you think this would fit well with Mr. Shimajima’s lifestyle?
Shimajima:It’s a perfect fit. Not just when I’m riding my bike, of course, but also when I go shopping—I hate having to walk around carrying shopping bags. With this much space, it’s easy to just toss in the clothes I’ve bought. It’s super lightweight and easy to carry around—it’s the kind of bag that makes you want to go out and explore all sorts of places.
DAY TRIPPER LIGHT ¥ 37,400
A lightweight model made from 70D U.S.-made ripstop nylon that retains the storage capacity and usability of the “DAY
TRIPPER.” The grid-patterned weave enhances tear resistance while providing a lightweight, comfortable feel. Furthermore, by incorporating USA-made mesh material—known for its excellent breathability and durability—into the sides, it handles everything from everyday use to active pursuits with ease. It’s a versatile piece that combines toughness with mobility.
