Fashion
December 26, 2014
INTERVIEW | US GQ Staff Discuss Men's Fashion!
SPECIAL INTERVIEW
First Visit to Japan for the Opening of "STEVEN ALAN TOKYO" on Park Street, Shibuya
US "GQ" Magazine Staff Discuss Men's Fashion!
Justin Doss, Fashion Editor at US "GQ" magazine, and Jim Moore, Creative Director,"STEVEN ALAN TOKYO" in Shibuya Park Streetmade their first visit to Japan to inspect the new store. We spoke with them on the morning of the grand opening, inside the "STEVEN ALAN TOKYO" shop.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)Photographs by HARA Emiko
Brilliant Talent, Born and Raised in NY
──What was the purpose of your visit to Japan?
Jim Moore (hereinafter, Jim)We were invited by United Arrows. This is our first time in Japan for both of us, and we've had a wonderful experience visiting "STEVEN ALAN TOKYO" and the United Arrows stores.
──What are your impressions of "STEVEN ALAN TOKYO"?
Justin Doss (hereinafter, Justin)It's very clean and simple, much like the store on Franklin Street in NY, so we have a very good impression.
──What do you think of Steven Alan's creations?
JimSteven first appeared in New York ten years ago. Now, his collection is a staple in every New Yorker's closet. He has a remarkable talent for creating clean, simple clothing, and he also has an ability to curate new creators. Today, his focus extends to lifestyle as a whole, and he's making a significant impact both in America and internationally.
What US "GQ" Magazine Aims For, and What Men's Fashion Aims For
──What are your impressions of the United Arrows stores?
JustinI was actually a buyer for Barneys New York and was the one who first introduced "Camoshita UNITED ARROWS" in NY, so seeing the collections in the actual United Arrows stores was very moving.
JimIt was quite a shock. The curated brands and original items offered an excitement akin to going on a treasure hunt. The range of colors was extensive, the selection was flawless, and the service was superb.
JustinIt was also fun to explore vintage shops and the specialty stores of Japanese brands.
──Who are the current readers of US "GQ" magazine?
JimWe cover everything from fashion to lifestyle trends, but what's important is helping people realize the value of "Comfort" in both their clothes and their lives. We provide information for a wide range of men.
──What are your impressions of how Japanese men dress?
JustinThey pay close attention to detail and understand how to incorporate it into their style. They are adept at dressing up more formal pieces in a casual way, including their use of color.
JimFashion is something you should experience yourself, from craftsmanship and color palettes to accessory choices. I feel that current men's style is about wearing clothes with a certain understated elegance. United Arrows, as a shop that conveys this kind of sophisticated suit-wearing style, is truly wonderful.
──What did you notice about the Japanese fashion scene?
JustinSeeing the Japanese fashion market for the first time, I was struck by the sheer variety of products and trends, with many international brands represented. This suggests that Japanese men can easily achieve a "gentleman's look" in the morning, whether for casual or formal occasions.──That's wonderful.


