In "FASHION HEADLINE," we asked brands that recently presented at Tokyo Collection to give their own self-assessment, with the aim of looking back on Spring/Summer 2013.
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Our third guest is designer Kumakiri of "Beautiful People."
Respondent:
Beautiful People
Designer Kumakiri Hidenori
Q1. What new challenges did you take on in your creations this season?
A:
For this collection, we thoroughly explored the challenge of combining the "spirit of Edo" with modern traditional and basic elements. Using the Edomae style of Beautiful People, which is currently based in Tokyo, I believe we have created fashion that is one step ahead, based on lively and fresh traditional style!
Q2. What was the thing you focused on most in the collection?
A:
While inspired by Edo and Japan, we tried to avoid a Japanese feel. We also made sure that when viewed from a certain angle, Hanafuda cards would appear to float on the runway, and that even though the clothes looked Japanese from a certain angle, they didn't at first glance look Japanese, and we incorporated these modern elements into our clothing.
Q3. What is your top look or item this season?
A:
It was a look that combined a double-woven washi-colored jacket made using washi paper woven on a wool loom, Sabrina-length mohair slacks, and a striped top with a modern striped pattern reminiscent of Edo-era drop curtains, with python geta sandals and Edo Kiriko bangles. Personally, I think it's cool because it's full of Edo elements but has a modern finish.
Q4. What items were popular with buyers and the press?
A:

Beautiful People staple items such as the indigo and flesh-colored horsehide rider's jacket and the Ultimate Pima trench coat are consistently popular.


People are enjoying our playful items, such as our kohada T-shirt, which recreates the luster and shine of kohada, a fishnet skin synonymous with Edomae sushi, using a print that combines foil and aluminum; our intarsia-knitted T-shirt featuring a cute "zaru-kaburi dog" (a dog wearing a bamboo basket) said to bring good fortune; and our knitwear made from yarn twisted like washi paper.

Q5. How would you rate this season's collection? And why?
A:
I can't rate a collection, but I strive every day to utilize my current abilities and our company's production capacity to the best of my ability at the moment in order to complete products!

Q6. Please tell us about your future plans.
A:
Next year, I'm thinking of creating a small, elegant dress line that embodies the Beautiful People style, separate from the main line.

Q7. Other brands you thought were good
A:
I don't usually go to see other Tokyo brands (I don't get invitations either...), but I went to see White Mountaineering, run by Aizawa-san, who I've known since my previous company! The theme was Training Day, but it wasn't training wear, so it was a really cool show with a twist!

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