--What do you think about craftsmanship today?

In the past, people couldn't travel as easily as they can now. Because things were filtered by time and people, they underwent fascinating and profound changes in many ways. It took time for a show seen in New York to reach Japan. Now, it can be viewed instantly online. Considering this, today's advantages are the information age and the ease with which distances can be traveled. For example, deerskin leather pants made in a family-run factory in Bavaria can be dyed with indigo in Japan, or a crocheted dress can be made by a grandmother in France. Such methods are only now possible.

--How do you research artisans and factories around the world?

I guess it's like you research things that interest you and the information just comes naturally. Recently, we've had people contact us because they've become interested in our craftsmanship. I try to visit the main places we work with, such as our supplier, the leather factory in Chicago. Seeing how things are actually made can give me some insights. Recently, I had the tape for my hat knitted in Guatemala, but I haven't been there yet.

--Is there any travel destination that has made a particularly strong impression on you?

I often travel from New York to Pennsylvania, where the Amish live, a source of inspiration for me. Their clothing is forbidden to have buttons or other decorative elements for religious reasons, so there's nothing commercial about it. It's pure. I love how they put so much love into their children's clothes.

--At the Isetan event starting on April 1st, you'll be selling limited edition items using Aomori's "Kogin embroidery." What are your thoughts on Japanese handicrafts?

"Kogin embroidery" is a technique I've used before, but since the thread is hand-embroidered to increase the fabric's warmth and strength, I think it really does have character. Interestingly, sashiko like Kogin embroidery can be found all over the world, including Peru and Taiwan. I'd love to see these handicrafts transformed into modern products, rather than just preserved as a culture. Up until now, we have focused on traditional Japanese techniques such as indigo dyeing and mud dyeing, but we also believe it is important for the products born from such experiments to be viable products in the market.

--Finally, where does your unique stance as a fashion brand come from?

I believe fashion is something that reveals the inner self of the person wearing it. This is true for me as well, but as I get older, I want my inner self to become more refined and attractive. In the same way, I would like the clothes and shoes I make to improve with time and use.

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