Fragrance house

Hello Kitty

Hello Kitty was designed by Sanrio illustrator Yuko Shimizu in 1974 as a character for stationery, tote bags, cups, and other small accessories. Created within Sanrio, whose predecessor was established in Tokyo in 1960 as Yamanashi Silk Center and renamed Sanrio in 1973, she first appeared on merchandise through a coin purse released in 1975, which became an unexpected hit in Japan. Sanrio identifies her as Kitty White and places her fictional birth in suburban London, England; her ribbon represents friendship. Her mouthless face allows viewers to interpret her feelings, alongside Sanrio’s philosophy of Minna Nakayoku, or “Getting Along Together.” In 1980, lead designer Yuko Yamaguchi refreshed Hello Kitty with new poses and settings, giving her a more fashionable image while retaining the basic design. Sanrio is her creator and owner, with products made by Sanrio or authorized licensees. Hello Kitty marked her 50th anniversary in 2024 under the theme “Friend the Future.”