The Goethe-Institut Tokyo is launching a program that examines German fashion from various angles. The first project, titled "Fashion and Art," was held in 2014.

On November 27th, Hamburg-based designer Bent Angelo Jensen, who is collaborating on the first project, was invited to Japan for a presentation at the center in Tokyo's Minato Ward. He introduced the designer and his brand, "Her von Ehden," and exhibited a portfolio of the 2013 campaign, which was shot in Tokyo last year, as well as lookbooks from the brand's previous collections.

Germany is also home to famous designers such as Karl Lagerfeld and Jil Sander. During the presentation, Raimund Werdemann, director of the Goethe-Institut Tokyo, said, "German fashion is polarized, with some people wearing jackets, jeans, and sandals to work, while others wear blousons and jeans. Jensen's collection, in particular, seeks to bring back the gentlemanly style (suit) to street fashion, and is like a work of art." He continued, "Next year, I would like to carry out three projects: 'Fashion and Art,' 'Craftsmanship in Fashion,' and 'Fashion and Performance.'" Jensen also said, "The biggest difference between Japan and Germany is street fashion. Germany is indifferent to fashion, while Tokyo is stimulating. I believe Tokyo fashion comes from a culture that values consideration, respect, and cherishes others. Karl Lagerfeld once said, 'A designer must approach the classics,' and I too started out by owning a vintage clothing shop. I studied clothing not in school, but by analyzing many classic suits. I have many musicians and Hollywood stars as my clients, and I would like to work with Japanese musicians as well."