Kimos Can Convey Many Things

This time, we're introducing the pop-up shop for "HIROCOLEDGE YUKATA 2008" at Tokyo Midtown. The display is quite unique.

We're using the packing materials themselves as display fixtures, without any extra furniture. The pop and casual feel of the cardboard boxes is intended to position HIROCOLEDGE as something that doesn't fit neatly into the "Japanese" category. We want people who might not normally be interested in yukata or tenugui to wander in, forget their preconceptions about Japanese culture, and switch their mindset. While ensuring it's well-received by those familiar with kimonos, we aim to create displays and presentation methods that appeal to a wide range of people, regardless of age, gender, or nationality. It may take time, but through our ongoing activities, we hope people will feel the coexistence of tradition and contemporary sensibility.

You're also thinking about wearing kimonos in everyday life, aren't you?

I don't expect people to wear them like jeans or T-shirts, but I'd like them to think of kimonos as they might a Chanel jacket. Ideally, they would be alongside other special garments when you open your closet at home. It would be wonderful if they became one of the options available. In that sense, exploring how close kimonos can get to everyday wear is an experiment in itself. The furoshiki and tenugui from HIROCOLEDGE also serve as tools to help people discover that kind of enjoyment.

Are you also conscious of creating something new?

I've never consciously tried to create something that doesn't exist or hasn't been seen before. However, I do think that without something unique, it might be difficult to capture attention. When I first started HIROCOLEDGE, some artisans told me, "This isn't a kimono," or "I don't want to dye this." But now, artisans my age are stepping forward, saying they want to take on the challenge. There's a growing atmosphere of "This looks interesting, let's try it." Young artisans in Nishijin are doing extensive research and weaving obi that have never been woven before, sometimes saying, "Will this sell?" as they work on it. I believe that designs that prompt artisans to say, "This is difficult, but I'll try it," become the catalyst for new creations. In that sense, I feel like I can see a path forward.

You receive many requests to participate in collections, don't you?

Manish Arora, an Indian designer, also participates in Paris Fashion Week with designs that strongly emphasize individuality. If I were to participate in a collection, I'd want people to simply accept it as "a Japanese designer, so of course kimonos are featured." While I think it's a great platform to help people discover the appeal of kimonos, I feel that the pace of collections – presenting something new every six months and discarding the old – isn't quite right for me. If I could participate only when I felt inspired, I would gladly do so... (laughs).

Now, the title of this series is "THE BEGINNING OF A NEW TRADITION: Tradition Begins Here and Now."

There was a time when kimonos had trends, and new items were created every season. But now, it feels like too much effort is focused on preserving the old forms, and we're not keeping up with the times. Traditions, too, must have been the latest thing when they were first created. They are called traditions precisely because they have endured over a long period. The title of this series reflects my hope that what I create will also become a tradition in the world of the future. Through clothing, I want to convey small moments of realization and a great deal of joy.

Tokyo Midtown's "HIROCOLEDGE YUKATA 2008" Extended Due to Popular Demand!

HIROCOLEDGE's summer items, including new yukatas for 2008, tenugui, and SLEEVE BAGs, are available until Monday, July 21st (public holiday) in front of the Atrium, B1F Galleria, Tokyo Midtown.

Tokyo Midtown Galleria B1F, In front of the Atrium
Information | http://www.tokyo-midtown.com/

HIROCOLEDGE Official Website | http://www.hirocoledge.com

Event Information Here
http://www.hirocoledge.com/events/