FASHION /
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May 21, 2015
RESTIR | Buyer's Feature | 'RESTIR MIDTOWN' Evokes Brown and Fur
RESTIR | THE STORE
Hiroyuki Shimizu, General Manager and Men's Merchandiser, RESTIR Boutique
This Autumn/Winter: A Touch of Brown and Fur
RESTIR MIDTOWN opened concurrently with the launch of Roppongi Midtown. The men's section boasts over 50 brands, with 70% sourced from Europe, 20% from New York (USA), and 10% from Japan – all of which are curated selections. We feature Hiroyuki Shimizu of RESTIR, known for his unique choices ranging from Balmain to Thom Browne, Comme des Garçons, Sacai, and SOPH.
Text by OPENERSPhotos by Emiko Hara
Picks from the Paris, Milan, New York, and Tokyo Collections!
RESTIR MIDTOWN presents its men's and women's collections on a single, second-floor level. The first floor offers digital gadgets and other items, attracting a bustling crowd of tourists, particularly from Asia. "At RESTIR, we've shifted our focus from black, which has been our image, to brown for the 2011 Autumn/Winter men's collection, aligning with current trends," explains Hiroyuki Shimizu, General Manager and Men's Merchandiser at RESTIR Boutique. "Brown-based coordination forms a key axis for us."
Furthermore, "While we pushed down jackets last year, this season's outerwear focus is on pieces featuring fur. We've curated items that perfectly match this vision, such as Balmain's leather blousons with fur accents. Balmain's sales and recognition grow each year, and this season they've made a statement with fur. I was also deeply moved by Trussardi 1911's collection, the final one under director Milan Vukmirovic, which primarily featured leather items. Jimmy Choo's first men's shoe collection is also noteworthy," he adds.
Purchase 01
Knit Vest by MIHARA YASUHIRO
Embracing Designer Yasuhiro Mihara's Vision
"We've carried SOSU MIHARA YASUHIRO since last season. Their ambition to expand the brand internationally, presenting collections in Paris, perfectly aligns with RESTIR's global perspective."
"The products possess a unique atmosphere unlike other international brands, making them appealing even within our imported collection. That's their charm."
"This is a down-filled knit vest. It's quite thick, but the intricate texture is excellent. It's perfect for layering over a shirt to create a sophisticated adult look. We'll also be receiving fur vests from MIHARA YASUHIRO."
"It's rare to find designers whose individuality is so understandable and original. Mihara-san's philosophy truly resonates."
Knit Vest: ¥72,450 (MIHARA YASUHIRO / RESTIR)
Purchase 02
Pea Coat by TRUSSARDI 1911
A Hybrid of Wool and Leather
"The TRUSSARDI 1911 collection was simply outstanding. The lineup, primarily featuring leather, offered a superb balance in both items and styling. It's been about three years since it became TRUSSARDI 1911, and their fanbase is steadily growing."
"This is a hybrid pea coat made of wool and leather. The wool is lightweight, the leather is soft, and the details are authentic. It's truly a sophisticated urban outerwear piece. What's particularly noteworthy is its comfort. I highly recommend trying it on."
"We primarily source outerwear from TRUSSARDI 1911. It's a bit disappointing that the direction will change to Umit Benan next season."
Pea Coat: ¥215,250 (TRUSSARDI 1911 / RESTIR)
Purchase 03
Boots by JIMMY CHOO
A Perfect Match for the RESTIR Wardrobe
"Following the success of Lanvin's sneakers, RESTIR became associated with sneakers, but we've also focused on boots since last year. They're selling very well."
"These JIMMY CHOO boots have a solid, basic construction, with intricate details like belts and buckles, and a silhouette that exudes masculinity. They aren't as flashy as Louboutins, making them easy to incorporate into various outfits."
"For styling, we're incorporating browns and earth tones, paired with corduroy pants and check shirts. This first collection is a noteworthy addition that perfectly matches RESTIR's wardrobe aesthetic."
Boots: ¥130,200 (JIMMY CHOO / RESTIR)
Purchase 04
iPad Case by THOM BROWNE
Ready for Business
"While many brands offer iPad cases, I discovered this one at Thom Browne's exhibition alongside bags and accessories, and it felt so characteristic of him that I had to acquire it."
"It's designed like a bag, with a compartment for the iPad and space for cards. Seeing this, I thought, 'He's proposing a new vision of the modern businessman through fashion.' The idea that this case enables you to work is quite intriguing."
iPad Case: ¥115,500 (THOM BROWNE / RESTIR)
Hiroyuki SHIMIZU
Joined RESTIR Ginza in 2004.
Transferred to RESTIR MIDTOWN upon its opening at Tokyo Midtown in 2007.
Currently serves concurrently as General Manager and Men's Merchandiser.
RESTIR MIDTOWN
9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-5413-3708
Hours: 11:00 - 21:00
http://www.restir.com/