FASHION /
WOMEN
February 6, 2015
J&M DAVIDSON | Bags hailed as the 'eternal basic'.
J&M Davidson | J&M DAVIDSON
The Brand That Continues to Create "Timeless Basics" Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the brand "J&M Davidson." Founded by John and Monique, this accessory brand is a family business that they, and now their daughter, have continued to uphold. What began with a single belt has now expanded to include their signature bags, leather goods, and clothing, transforming it into a globally recognized luxury brand.
Text by OPENERSPhoto by Jamandfix
The Brand's Origins: "Dog Collars"
Monique Davidson with the new color of NEW VIVI
MoniqueOne day, I found some leather dog collars and leashes, and the leather used was so beautiful. I thought, 'What if I wore this around my waist? Wouldn't it suit people too?' So, I immediately visited the factory that made those dog collars and asked them to make belts for us.
JohnHowever, the leather was too thick and stiff as it was for dog collars, so it needed to be thinned out.
MoniqueIt's become quite difficult to produce something like that now.
JohnFashion accessories like belts are meant to add a finishing touch to one's style. That's precisely why I wanted to create an accessory brand.
MoniqueWe didn't set out from the beginning to create a brand with such a wide range of items as we have now, but this is the result of pursuing what we wanted to do. We kept thinking, 'Let's try this,' and 'Let's try that,' and by doing so, it naturally evolved into its current form. It was a natural progression.
JohnThat's right. We are not a so-called 'marketing brand.' We instinctively knew what felt like "J&M DAVIDSON" and what didn't. In any case, we were fortunate that there were people who understood what we wanted to do.
Craftsmanship Infused with British "Saddlery"
JohnPeople often say our work has British craftsmanship. I personally call it "saddlery" – the art of harness making.
MoniqueWe are meticulous about details. This includes the thickness of the leather and the stitching. We thin the leather until it achieves a soft finish, and we use fine, precise needlework for the stitching. These details are our signature, and we never forget the spirit of saddlery.
JohnHowever, that term has a rather rugged connotation. So, Monique adds a soft, feminine touch to it.
John Davidson with THE CHARLES by his side
MoniqueWe are not just a British brand. We are a fusion of British and French.
An Essence of French Chic
JohnHistorically, women's styles were influenced by haute couture and originated in France. In contrast, men's styles often find their roots in Britain. The femininity that Monique embodies can be described as 'French chic,' but I believe it itself is a blend of masculine elements within femininity.
MoniqueFrench chic is something pure. It means looking stylish even with simplicity. You don't need to own many things for that.
JohnAdding a belt, hat, or scarf to a simple outfit can also make that style something special.
MoniquePerhaps French chic isn't 'fashion' in the conventional sense. Fashion seems to be losing its direction right now. Or perhaps everything can be considered fashion. But that might be a good thing. Why? Because it allows for greater self-expression, doesn't it?
The couple explaining the features of NEW VIVI
Being a "Couple" is the Origin of Creation
MoniqueWe collaborate on all our work. This includes design, of course, but also all aspects of the business. We don't divide tasks based on gender, like 'this is for women' or 'this is for men.'
JohnWe exchange ideas and discuss them. Through this process, our concepts take shape. Having both male and female perspectives might be our strength.
MoniqueYes. You're practical, and I'm not (laughs). From the very beginning, we've handled everything together. It wasn't a situation where, for example, one was a designer and the other was a CEO, and they met later.
JohnCertainly, our opinions clash at times. But we always find a compromise. Isn't that true of marriage as well?
MoniqueFurthermore, we share a common artistic background. Before starting this brand, John was a photographer, and I was a ballet dancer.
The use of solid brass for belt and bag hardware, which is now commonplace, was an initiative first taken by "J&M Davidson" in the industry.
“I am very proud of these past 25 years. We have grown together. We constantly pursue better styles, share the same vision, and handle all designs in-house as a true ‘family business.’ Like other great accessory brands, we have nurtured this brand over time and established our current position in the fashion world.”
The creations of "J&M Davidson," born from John's traditional British craftsmanship combined with Monique's French esprit, continue to be supported as "timeless basics" by those seeking a luxury that is distinct from the ordinary.
