Retirees-turned-fashion influencers Aki and Koichi are no strangers to Kyoto, Japan. “My younger sister, Eiko, lives here, so when we visit, we always spend the day together. We walk by the Kanagawa River, eat soba at Arashiyama Yoshimura, and finish with homemade umeshu and dinner at her place,” Koichi says. “With a little bit of shopping in there too,” Aki adds. Though they’ve made countless trips before, the pair have just made what they agree is their most memorable visit to Kyoto yet, attending the Dior pre-fall 2025 show, set against the backdrop of the historic Toji Temple and the blooming cherry blossoms.

For the occasion–Dior’s first show in Kyoto in 72 years—Aki and Koichi took different approaches to their outfits. “This cape perfectly reflects my style: classic with a hint of something unexpected,” Aki says of her white caped top and black trousers. “The text on the side just made me love it even more.” Koichi, for his part, chose to divert from his everyday attire in a beaded black coat. “It’s unlike anything I own, so I thought, ‘Why not try it?’” he says. “The beading detail is incredible, and I just felt so cool wearing it.”

Their senses of style reflect what they love most about each other, and offer some insight into their well-balanced partnership. “Koichi’s style is consistently classic and refined, which I admire. He prioritizes quality pieces and understands how to dress his body type,” Aki says. “Despite being reserved, Koichi’s passion for life is infectious. He embraces each day as a chance for discovery, and I’ve found our time together incredibly inspiring.”

Koichi, meanwhile, praises Aki as a true individual in fashion and beyond. “Aki’s style is refreshingly her own. She ignores fleeting trends and dresses solely for herself, which I deeply respect. Her look is a unique, classic, and wholly individual expression,” he says. “Aki is incredibly confident and authentic. She knows who she is and embraces it—a rare and valuable trait.”

Below, Aki and Koichi bring Vogue to Kyoto for Dior’s pre-fall 2025 show.