About

Welcome to Smiley Side Up NY!

My name is Yukari, and I am the founder of Smiley Side Up NY. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry and a background in fashion technology from Bunka Gakuen University in Tokyo, my journey has been fueled by a deep love for creativity and production. While I'm passionate about fashion, I've always been mindful of the industry's environmental impact—particularly regarding waste and sustainability.

My dream has always been to create products that bring joy and inspiration without contributing to unnecessary waste. When I discovered the Print-on-Demand (POD) system, I found the perfect solution: a way to create beautiful, meaningful designs that are produced only when ordered—eliminating overproduction and supporting a more sustainable future.

Smiley Side Up NY draws inspiration from the colors and smiles that brighten everyday life. I believe in the power of joy and positivity, which I express through my playful, witty, and cheerful designs.

I exclusively choose t-shirts made from 100% natural fibers, even though this means working with a more limited color palette, since many vibrant colors require polyester blends.

I'm building Smiley Side Up NY from my small New York apartment while maintaining a full-time office job—proof that big dreams can start anywhere. Each order represents not just a product, but a step toward more sustainable, joy-filled fashion.

Thank you for supporting Smiley Side Up NY. Your choice helps spread smiles, celebrate individuality, and embrace sustainability—one design at a time. I hope you find something that brings a smile to you or your loved ones!

Warm wishes, 
Yukari