Living in Fukuoka. Working in Fukuoka.

──What do you value most in your design process?

Simplicity. Practicality. This has been the unchanging theme since we first made "FUJITO" jeans 10 years ago.

──What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in Fukuoka?

The biggest advantage is being able to value my own time. This includes time with family and friends. There are other benefits too, such as abundant delicious food, relatively affordable rent, and easy access to the world via Incheon Airport from nearby Fukuoka Airport. For my work, the current environment with its moderate pace is just right for me to focus on creating.

I find the disadvantages to be surprisingly few, but it is sad that there are fewer exhibitions and events related to art and music. I think it's the same in any city, but we've entered an era where it doesn't matter where you work as long as the city has a certain level of functionality. I think it's the same in any city, but we've entered an era where it doesn't matter where you work as long as the city has a certain level of functionality.

──What are your thoughts on the current menswear fashion scene?

It's very stimulating, but I think it's largely centered in Tokyo. Many brands are based in Tokyo, and the media is concentrated there. I expect this will continue to be the case. Perhaps that's why brands with our stance can operate. I was very pleased when a press contact told me, "FUJITO's items don't fit into any magazine." I want to continue without forcing myself to broadcast from Fukuoka.

We want them to be timeless for the wearer.

──Do you have a theme for this season's (2012 Autumn/Winter) collection? Please tell us about the distinctive items and styling.

The theme is "lost in reverie." It means to be lost in thought. I've been doing that more often recently than before. Many other people seem to be doing the same. I made this collection for them, including myself.
The distinctive items are probably the jeans. They have become the face of the brand because we continue to sell them without changing the pattern. Shirts have also been well-received in recent seasons. The sewing and silhouette, which fuse dress shirts and work shirts, are superb. This season, we're coordinating with a palette based on navy and gray, with a beret as a key accessory.

──What is the biggest feature (selling point) of "FUJITO"?

That's a very difficult question. I want them to be timeless for the wearer. We aim to create clothing that offers a sense of security, something you'll instinctively reach for when you get up in the morning and leave the house.

──Please tell us about your personal favorite coordination/style.

A white V-neck T-shirt and blue jeans.

──Finally, do you have a message for your fans?

This is a brand for the future, so please try wearing our clothes at least once. I would be happy if you could feel the "FUJITO" essence through the excellent silhouette and material quality.

Go Fujito | FUJITO Go
Brand "FUJITO" designer. Born in Sasebo in 1975. Worked at Vintage King in 1995-96. Worked at Denime Gear Fukuoka from 2000-02. Established design office "WISTERIA" in 2002 and launched "FUJITO."
http://www.wstra.com/

<FUJITO Retailers>
Beauty & Youth United Arrows Shibuya Koen-dori Store
http://www.beautyandyouth.jp/shop/bsk.html