Being Open Allows Me to Trust My Intuition

—Could you tell us about the inspiration behind the Spring/Summer 2014 men's collection?

It's difficult to pinpoint one single thing as the inspiration for the collection. I've maintained a consistent philosophy since I first started designing.
I don't create collections based on a specific theme. The only thing I can say is that I feel an 'intuition' towards the materials, colors, and silhouettes I want to use. I believe that being open to new experiences is how I encounter that intuition. I draw inspiration from various sources, such as visiting art and photography exhibitions.

—Last year's Spring/Summer season had the keyword 'Light Feeling,' but this season, we've seen many pieces with a substantial, robust feel. What prompted that change?

For men's, tapered, slim-fit trousers have become the mainstream, but this season, wide-leg trousers are also a key item. I believe that different styles can coexist, and I presented them in the collection. Please pay attention to the wide-leg trousers with their rich material texture. While lightness and airiness are important for the Spring/Summer season, I want to emphasize robust cotton.





—Are materials still important to you, Margaret?

Materials are crucial, and I love them. If you don't select the right materials properly, even with excellent silhouettes, you won't create wonderful clothes.
Whether for men or women, I believe people wear Margaret Howell clothes because the materials match the silhouettes, allowing them to enjoy comfort. For example, the 100% linen knit featured this season has the unique dry feel of linen, is pleasant to the touch, and looks beautiful, which I really like.

—What is the most important aspect you focus on in men's design and styling?

Everything is the answer. For instance, if we, as creators, find vintage clothes appealing and simply copy them, there's no meaning in that. When we interpret something from those clothes, incorporate it into today's creation, and achieve success, it becomes a garment with character.
Also, is it always the case that comfort, casualness, and relaxation are the most important? Not necessarily. With durable materials like indigo cotton that last, the fabric softens with wear, and the clothes change with the wearer, which is also an important element of clothing.

We Want to Convey the Story of Our Creations

—You are currently participating in London Fashion Week's men's collection. What led to your participation?

Before participating in London Fashion Week, we presented through exhibitions in Paris. However, it's important to see how clothes look on people as they move, so we set up a runway in our London store and began there.
Margaret HowellI believe our men's collection isn't necessarily suited for a runway, but I wanted the media to see the creations we've made accurately.

—Do you not desire a larger venue than your London store?

Our men's collection consists of real clothes, so I think the scale of our own store is appropriate for people to see what we want to convey.

—Do you consider the presentation when designing for the runway?

There's no particular change in my creative process. However, it presents a challenge for us, and we approach it with enjoyment, so we plan to continue. This Spring/Summer collection features Japanese models. Since people all over the world wear our clothing, the nationality of the models doesn't matter; if their physique and walk suit the clothes, we consider that part of our character.





—Could you pick three of your favorite looks (outfits) from this season's collection?

Let me see. First, the knit coordination on the top left. This is a collaboration knit with the British handmade knit brand 'Marion Foale.' The 'Guernsey sweater' created through Marion Foale's unique dyeing and knitting techniques is highly valuable.
I like how the loose silhouette in the top center outfit is well-balanced. The top right also features a silhouette that I find appealing and representative of this season.

—What are the benefits of presenting a collection?

We are not in the high-fashion, glamorous fashion world, but we want to convey the story of Margaret Howell's creations.

—Beyond clothing, what is currently capturing your interest?

Well, I love everything in the Margaret Howell shops. The cutlery designed by product designer Kenneth Grange and industrial designer Robert Welch, featured in 'Margaret Howell Plus,' as well as Ercol furniture and Anglepoise desk lamps... By looking beyond fashion to art and architecture, we stock items that share our design values. Displaying these in our shops allows people to understand our current perspective.
Furthermore, by selecting British products, customers can also feel a sense of unity within the shop.

—Many women aspire to your 'way of life,' Margaret. Could you share some tips for living comfortably every day?

Personally, I don't like throwing things away, so I cherish my favorite items, keeping them for a long time, and owning only a few. Also, spending time outdoors, staying healthy through exercise, and engaging with art and architecture by visiting exhibitions – maintaining simplicity in these ways. Perhaps this is one aspect of the lifestyle women aspire to.

—You visit Japan regularly. What do you like about Japan?

I love Japanese food. I especially like rice and buy Japanese rice to eat in London. Also, I appreciate the simplicity and extreme practicality of traditional Japanese architecture. And the consideration and politeness of the people. I'm always grateful for the help I receive every time I visit Japan.

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Anglobal
Tel. 03-5467-7874
http://www.margarethowell.jp