Real Simple

PlayStation 2 isn't the only white-hot import from Japan. There's also MUJI. Globe-trotting trend- setters have long been fans of the lifestyle stores -- with locations from Paris to London -- that sell everything from cool stationery and personal accessories to furniture, kitchen products, and clothes. The good news for North Americans: MUJI has just slid open its bamboo doors at Manhattan's MoMA Design Stores. Famous for their stream-lined and environmentally friendly package design (MUJI is short for mujirushi ryohin, which means ''no brand goods'' in Japanese), many of the store's products come wrapped in clear cellophane and carry no screaming logos. So far, the minimalist approach has attracted such celebs as Johnny Depp and French actress Catherine Deneuve. ''A person might like having a Gucci bag,'' says Elizabeth Cooley, promotions manager at MoMA retail, ''but a really sleek makeup brush that doesn't promote anybody'' is equally appealing. ''These are simple products that everybody can understand and grasp.'' And buy: MUJI goods are also available online at mujionline.com.