On July 30th, UNIQLO held a press conference to introduce its new silk and cashmere products for this fall/winter collection. Design and Art Director Naoki Takizawa, Fashion Director Nicola Formichetti, and Fast Retailing Group Senior Executive Officer Yoshihiro Kunii gave presentations. Takizawa gave a presentation on UNIQLO's "LifeWear" concept. "We've found a word that succinctly and clearly expresses what UNIQLO has been doing all this time. UNIQLO has created a new way of living with clothing—a story that revolves around our products in everyday life—and this has culminated in the term 'LifeWear.' It's a category that plays a new role in the industry, on a par with 'haute couture' and 'sportswear.'" "LifeWear" is divided into 12 projects, including Heattech, Ultra Light Down, and leggings. Takizawa explained that each product "functions like a smartphone application, and will be updated with each season." This season, the company will offer silk and cashmere, luxury materials not typically used for everyday wear, at low prices worldwide.
Executive Officer Kunii stated, "We aim to sell approximately 1.6 million silk products, more than 10 times the number from last year, and approximately 5.9 million cashmere products (approximately 2.9 million 100% cashmere products and approximately 3 million 10% cashmere blend products)."
The silk collection will be women's only, with 18 styles and 90 colors and patterns, priced from ¥1,990 to ¥5,990. This will be the first time that silk products will be offered globally. Additionally, the company will offer 17 styles and approximately 140 colors and patterns for women, 13 styles and approximately 100 colors and patterns for men, and 12 styles and 90 colors and patterns for goods. In addition to 100% cashmere, the company will also offer cashmere blend products, incorporating 10% modal and rayon blends, based on its own research. Prices range from 1,550 yen to 9,990 yen. This marks the first time in four years that 100% cashmere products will be available in all stores in Japan.
Looks using both items were shown at the press conference. "The cashmere pieces have a slightly stylish design, with loose, flared hems and color blocks. The model styling was done with loafers and other items to create a casual feel, incorporating luxury items into everyday wear," explained Nicolas.
In addition, the visual image has been completely revamped to express the concept. The art direction is handled by Olivier Zahm, editor-in-chief of the French fashion magazine "purple FASHION," and the photos are by Ryan McGinley.
