Isetan Shinjuku is hosting a pop-up event called "Yukata Stylist Made" at The Stage on the first floor of the main building from June 19th to 25th, featuring yukata designs by 10 of Japan's top stylists. (After the event, the designs will be available at the Kimono section on the seventh floor of the main building.) Fashion Headline interviewed 10 stylists in a relay format. This time, we're featuring stylist Tetsuro Nagase. He proposes a new yukata worn like a gown, accessorized with African accessories and a belt made from woven leather. It's a striking piece that aims for a genderless approach while retaining a traditional ethnic image. What Japanese dyeing and weaving techniques did you incorporate for this collection? Why did you choose them? Piece-dying the linen-blend fabric allowed for an exquisite blue. I chose the checkered pattern I wanted to wear, with a touch of African flair for impact.
For styling, I wanted young people to experience the joy of freely mixing and matching without being bound by stereotypes, so this time I proposed yukata as a haori (outerwear).

--What is the difference between your main job of styling and designing clothes (yukata in this case)?

Styling is inspired by clothes, but design starts from an image, so I think they are completely different. However, since this was yukata, I was able to imagine the styling to a certain extent from the beginning.

--What difficulties did you encounter when actually creating the yukata, or if you made any new discoveries?

I think yukata have surprisingly broad possibilities, and they can be made even more interesting.

--What traditional Japanese techniques would you like to incorporate into styling and design in the future?

Indigo dyeing. I've always loved it, and if I were to design in the future, I would probably use indigo dyeing. I'd like to experiment with various methods using indigo dyeing.

--What do you think is the ideal man who looks best in a yukata?

(Unanswered)

--Which Japanese or international designer would you like to have design a yukata for?

Dries Van Noten.

--What is the most memorable memory of you going out in a yukata? Also, what are some recommended situations or spots?

If you were to wear a yukata for a special occasion, it would become like cosplay, so why not incorporate it into your everyday fashion as everyday wear?


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He went independent in 1996. He has worked on styling for a variety of media, including domestic and international magazines, advertisements, shows, television, and movies, for both men and women. He goes beyond clothing to provide creative direction for companies and products.