Challenging New Elements to Expand the Brand's World

—Let's talk about the Fall/Winter 2009 collection. What was the theme this season?

There wasn't a specific theme in words, but I wanted to create a collection with a sense of mix.
I proposed items with mixed materials, using not only my favorite fabrics but also deliberately diverse ones. I also hope that people will mix and match these pieces with items from other brands, not just Kaon.

—What are the key motifs for this season?

I'm not consciously pushing it, but it seems the image of cutsews with ribbons on the back is strong, so perhaps that's it? Ribbons are trendy right now, and I personally like them, but I'm not fixated on them. However, it's an item that buyers highly support, so I continue to offer ribbon-adorned cutsews in different colors each season. I do worry about how long they'll remain popular, so I ask the buyers each time, 'Are they still working?' (laughs). As long as they're being bought, I think I'll continue with them as a staple item (laughs).
Also, unique to this season, we had many orders for sequins, tweed, and knits.

—The knits are also embellished with sequins?

Yes. The knits also feature fur, which was a challenge for me.
There are genres that Kaon hasn't ventured into, like down jackets or denim pants. Fur and leather were also in that category, but I deliberately challenged myself with them this season.
There are many brands skilled at using fur, and perhaps this might differ from everyone's image of Kaon, but right now, I have a strong desire to constantly try new materials.

—I also have the impression that Kaon is known for feminine items like dresses and blouses.

Exactly. Of course, I personally like them, and orders are frequent, but I want to express a new side of Kaon.
Regarding the ribbon-adorned cutsews I mentioned earlier, when stores request custom orders, they often ask for 'ribbon cutsews.' While it's wonderful to be recognized for such a signature motif, a brand can't remain interesting if it doesn't introduce new things. Perhaps I'm in a phase of shedding my skin before the shell hardens.

The Next Season Matters More Than 10 Years From Now

—Could you tell us about the stores that currently carry your products?

Fortunately, they are carried at United Arrows, Aquagirl, Isetan Re-Style, Beams, Estnation, and Barneys New York.

—Actually, when I asked Yoko Sato of Pippi the same question, she answered in almost the same order (laughs).

That's amazing (laughs). When we first launched our brands, Sato and I shared a room for our exhibitions, and we developed our client base together. The order I just mentioned is the order in which we started doing business, and Pippi is the same, so perhaps that's why (laughs). Sato and I are still good friends; we're like family.


—Thank you very much.