The Theme for Autumn/Winter 2012 is Britain, the Brand's Roots

"Walking through the streets of Shibuya, I’d pass people wearing my bags, or people would approach me knowing I’m the designer of Jas.M.B. Tokyo is truly exciting. It was a pleasure to interact with so many fans at the trunk show, and more importantly, hearing their 'live' feedback was incredibly educational. Visiting Japan is very important to me."

Many fans flocked to the Jas.M.B. trunk shows held on Saturday, May 19th, at "DOORS By Jas.M.B. Tokyo" in Jingumae, Tokyo, and on Sunday, May 20th, at "DOORS By Jas.M.B. Fukuoka." Jas Sembi himself provided product explanations for the full lineup of the Autumn/Winter 2012 collection, which was displayed in place of the Spring/Summer 2012 collection.

"The theme for Autumn/Winter 2012 is Britain. I've created items that embody classic, British designs using high-quality materials like cowhide leather and hair pony, ranging from tartans in various shades to subdued two-tone colors. In particular, the series featuring tartan prints on hair pony is a new endeavor, and I believe it will give people a slightly different impression of Jas M.B. My personal favorite is the two-tone shoulder bag. The balance of materials and coloring is exquisite, and the gold plate on the front enhances its elegance."

Britain's Rising Cultural Momentum

Why did you choose Britain as the theme this season?

"With the London Olympics happening this year, everyone in Britain, in every city, is full of energy. Near my office, in East London, the Olympic Stadium was built in Stratford. The area's vibrancy is completely different now compared to before construction. It feels like an unprecedented energy is flowing through the people and the land. The same can be said for Britain's creative scene. Established designers like Paul Smith are creating superb collections at the peak of their careers, and promising young designers like Lou Dalton are emerging one after another. I feel that the Olympics have become a catalyst, boosting Britain's overall momentum on a cultural level."

Lou Dalton, in particular, who is part of the incubation program "NewGen Men" sponsored by Topman, is one of the designers Jas Sembi is keeping an eye on.

"Lou Dalton, who has experience with brands like Cruciani, is a designer skilled in bespoke tailoring and pattern cutting. I personally favor her unique designs that combine British tailoring with edgy elements, creating something not easily deciphered. We are currently in the process of a collaboration. It will likely be unveiled for the first time at London Fashion Week, held from June 15th to June 18th."

The Brand's First Charity Item is Also Released!!

While anticipation builds for the collaboration between the two, attention should also be paid to Jas.M.B.'s first-ever charity item, released this season.

"The charity project is a small token of gratitude from Jas.M.B. and myself to our fans who always support us. We plan to release one type of tote bag, mixing crack leather and cowhide leather. I wanted everyone who loves my items to be able to own it, so I've made it unisex, suitable for both men and women. The classic, subdued British two-tone color is also a key feature."

This tote bag, which would normally cost 50,000 yen, will be sold in late July for 17,850 yen (price in Japan). Furthermore, 15% of the proceeds will be donated to the following NPOs. One is "Plan UK" (http://www.plan-uk.org/), an organization that supports the education and lives of approximately 4 million children. The other is "Wapping Project" (http://www.thewappingproject.com/), based at the site of a former hydroelectric power station in East London, which supports the creative activities of young artists.

Orders are currently being accepted at "DOORS By Jas.M.B. Tokyo" and "DOORS By Jas.M.B. Fukuoka." By pre-ordering this bag, you are essentially purchasing a "lucky ticket."—.

"Yes, by purchasing this charity bag, you are participating in a lottery-like charity initiative. The first prize winner will receive my old Porsche. We plan to sell 6,000 tickets globally, with all proceeds from ticket sales being donated. In Japan, by ordering the charity tote bag introduced here, you automatically enter the draw and participate in this 'lottery.'"

The drawing will take place at a party hosted by Wapping Project on October 10th. The prizes are scheduled to be: first prize, Jas Sembi's Porsche 911 (1973); second prize, Virgin Atlantic airline tickets; and third prize, a JasM.B. "Large Move On Bag."

Jas Sembi is expanding the scope of his creative output through collaborations and charity initiatives. As a devoted fan, I eagerly anticipate what he will create and present to the world next.

DOORS by Jas M.B. Tokyo
1F, Fes Jingumae, 5-39-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-6419-7881
Hours | 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Open daily

DOORS By Jas M.B. Fukuoka
2-1-10 Imaizumi, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
Tel. 092-732-8819
Hours | 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Open daily

JAS SEMBI | Jas Sembi
Raised in the UK, he began designing influenced by his father, who was a furniture craftsman. In 2000, he established his own brand, Jas M.B. Since then, he has continuously pursued new approaches in design and materials, creating numerous models with character using vintage leather, crack leather, and more.