FASHION /
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April 6, 2015
adidas | Tom Dixon Exclusive Interview
adidas
Discussing the Buzzworthy "adidas by Tom Dixon"
An Exclusive Interview with Tom Dixon
Announced "adidas by Tom Dixon" at Milan Salone in AprilAdidas and renowned British industrial designer Tom Dixon generated significant buzz with the announcement of "adidas by Tom Dixon" at Milan Salone in April. OPENERS secured a rare opportunity for an exclusive interview with Tom Dixon. Here's what he had to say...
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
A Week-Long Journey of Work, Play, Day, and Night
—What was the concept or theme behind your collaboration with Adidas?
While the initial brief was to design bags, I decided this "adidas by Tom Dixon collection" needed to tell a story. It's a narrative of a week-long journey encompassing work, play, day, and night. Clothing serves multiple functions and can even be worn inside out, meaning travelers don't need to carry much, yet they must always have everything at hand.
—What inspired this concept or theme? What were your practical goals when starting the product development?
My aim here was to leverage Adidas's expertise and cutting-edge technology to solve some inconveniences I've personally experienced. The long nylon parka that doubles as a sleeping bag stems from a rather unpleasant experience in Milan years ago when I couldn't find accommodation and had to sleep in a park (laughs). The items I've designed are perfectly suited for the busy lives of modern jet-setters – compact, fashionable, and functional.
—What are your impressions of Adidas?
What I appreciate about Adidas is their commitment to continuity. They don't just release a training shoe and consider it done.
—What aspects of Adidas did you aim to bring out in this collaboration?
This project is deeply connected to my passion for technology and advanced materials, which Adidas frequently utilizes.
Tom Dixon's Signature Style: Simplicity and Robustness
—Why did you choose to launch at Milan Salone and select "MOST" as the venue?
The fusion of fashion and design has always been stimulating for me. When I conceived this collection, I wanted to create something trendy, sporty, yet functional and appealing. Therefore, we decided to launch this project at MOST during Milan Design Week. This museum houses everything related to travel, even a 19th-century train station. In that sense, it's the perfect location to truly convey the spirit of this collection.
—In what ways does your signature "Tom Dixon" style manifest in this collaboration?
It's in the literal simplicity and robustness. Take sneakers, for example. They often incorporate elaborate features like suspension systems, ventilation holes, bonded plastic components, suede patches, and fluorescent laces. Some sports shoes even boast 20 to 50 different functions!
In my own work, I always strive to minimize elements. To me, the essential components of a shoe are the sole and the shaft. I'm not a fashion designer, so I collaborate with these companies to utilize their skills in new ways.
The "adidas by Tom Dixon collection" is scheduled for release in mid-November this year.
adidas by Tom Dixon
Adidas Fashion Group Showroom
Tel. 03-5547-6501


