It was an exciting and incredibly precious experience to collaborate again after more than 20 years. I have aged, and the world has changed. Yet, our paths crossing again felt almost fated.

 

I wasn't told anything about the new collection beforehand. The only thing I heard was that it would be "a homage to 'But Beautiful.'" Mr. Takahashi simply asked me to "create shoes for the show," without revealing any details. He told me, "I trust you, so please do as you wish." While I was incredibly happy to hear that, I must admit it also put a lot of pressure on me.

 

However, as I began the creation process, it became increasingly enjoyable. And strangely, the shoes I created freely seemed to resonate perfectly with the collection's garments, as if we had coordinated beforehand. For instance, I was coincidentally working on shoes themed around "birds," and Mr. Takahashi was also designing garments inspired by "birds." The synchronicity was astonishing, making it feel as though 20 years had refined our sensibilities in the same direction.

 

The completed collection was truly beautiful, and my heart was full when I saw the show. Looking back, I couldn't attend the show 21 years ago because I was giving birth. My daughter was born that very day. It was deeply emotional to witness the new show unfold before my eyes this time.

 

After that, Mr. Takahashi presented me with another challenge: a request to create many textile sculptures in a short period for a new project. When I saw some of these, specifically dresses incorporating my "organ sculptures," presented at Paris Fashion Week, I was moved to tears once again.

 

I am truly happy that this 21-year story continues to unfold. And I am deeply grateful to Jun Takahashi for continuing to weave this wonderful journey with me.