Finds from the Fashion Week Fringe
TOKYO — It may be surprising to know that Japan Fashion Week (JFW) is a minor affair compared to buzz-generating events like the Tokyo Motor Show or Tokyo Game Show.
So this year, JFW’s organizers tried to pull out more stops by creating events outside the runway.
The Luxe by Plug-in exhibition held at Bellesalle Roppongi was one such event that offered a peek into the work of young designers and accessory brands trying to make it in the Japanese market, such as these:
Pretty In Pink
Why do girls like pink? This was the question designer Yuichi Yoshizaki had in mind when he decided to embrace this color as his inspiration for Spring/Summer2010.
He believes women are drawn to the color, and his collection delved into the varied tones of pink — from neon, salmon, to nude — but did not stop there. Intrigued by small ribbons found in lingerie, he incorporated them into tights and in minimalist bows at the back of sporty jackets.
H For Hit
In or out, city slickers still need their big bags. This is what designer Hitomi Yoneya said as she presented her unisex bag line called H5. Her brand hinges on humor, humanity, Hitomi, heavenly and harmony — but I found that it focused on practicality without sacrificing quality.
She had luxurious snakeskin bowling bags, totes with ombre treatment and simple belt bags in classic colors like camel and gray. The bags are surprisingly light for their size, topped off with her signature “hook” where keys, mobile phones and whatnot can be hung.
Yohji-Inspired
Yohji Yamamoto may have filed for bankruptcy protection but those who have worked in his fashion house are busy being start-ups.
After graduating from Moscow Textile Academy, Russian designer Mikhail Panteleev worked for Yohji Yamamoto before putting up his own line in 2000. Named after a famous river in Russia, his brand Volga Volga channels Martin Margiela as it employs smart patterns created from amazing fabric.
Two years into his independence, he collaborated with Rei Kawakubo on 10 Corso Como-Commes Des Garçons and Corner. With such experience, it’s surprising that he’s still somewhat underground. Maybe it’s due to his artisanal approach (everything is made in Japan) and preference for the best Japanese cotton that keeps this brand intentionally small.
Going Upward
While most designers and consumers focus on fast fashion, the Elvish brand moves upward. Designer Azusa Oaku just launched a premium line, aptly named Elvish More Couture, featuring more detailed creations using luxurious fabrics. Based on a dream garden, her current collection is filled with whimsical touches like chiffon rosettes, girly appliqués and hints of tulle. Elvish is available at curated boutiques such as Ships, Nano Universe, Estination and more.
Not Just An Eco Bag
Shokay is a fashion business that takes its cue from sustainability and community. This social venture helps Tibetan yak herders earn a living and maintain their tradition by taking their work to a wider audience. The line includes hats, scarves, shawls and home accessories made from yak down, collected by 2,600 villagers from Hei Ma He of Qinghai in western China.
Cuddly Fashion
Though the Luxe by Plug-in exhibit had a lot to offer, the Snoopy exhibition won the spotlight. The year 2010 marks the 60th year of “Peanuts” comics and the countdown to the big day officially started with this JFW exhibit. On display was Snoopy interpreted by top fashion houses Balenciaga, Hermés, and Jean Paul Gaultier, as well as local designers Tsumori Chisato (currently collaborating with Shu Uemura) and G.V.G.V.
