Reds That Complement the Super Seven (Part 1)
The Red That Suits the Seven (Part 1)
Masafumi Suzuki x Kaneyoshi Kondo (L&KONDO)
L&KONDO (Le Kondo), a total brand that places the "L" of leather and lifestyle at the heart of its name. With a broad vision of integrating leather into daily life, their products extend beyond leatherwear and accessories to include interiors, men's bags, and even sneakers.
This time, we covered a special gift from L&KONDO designer Kaneyoshi Kondo to Mr. Suzuki.
photo by UZAWA kay
At the L&KONDO Showroom
The Ultimate Outerwear, Born from Practice and Experience
Masafumi Suzuki“Kondo-san, is it really okay for me to have this leather blouson?”
Kaneyoshi Kondo“I’ve been keeping it since you saw the exhibition before. I’m so glad I can finally give it to you. How does it feel to wear?”
Suzuki“Wow, it’s cool. It’s the best.”
Kondo“We call this series the ‘Barbe Rouge Series’ (Red Beard). For example,” (while picking up a sample) “this is outerwear for cycling, but when you’re cycling, you yourself are the engine, so your back gets hot. We’ve devised ways to let that heat escape.”
Suzuki“I see. Where did the inspiration for this series come from?”
Kondo“There was an original prototype, and this is a variation I wore when I went hiking. When mountain climbing is the main activity, you inevitably have to think functionally.”
Suzuki“Looking at the series like this, the designs and details are backed by your own experience, Kondo-san, which gives them such persuasive power. There aren’t many people in the world who can ride bicycles, motorcycles, and cars, go mountain climbing, and also design clothing. Which mountains do you go to?”
Kondo“Mostly Yatsugatake.”
Suzuki“By experiencing these activities, you identify problems with the gear and then solve them with beautiful, rational designs. In a way, it’s an exceptional brand. And it’s luxurious, too.”
The “Barbe Rouge Series (Red Beard)” Series
Suzuki“By experiencing these activities, you identify problems with the gear and then solve them with beautiful, rational designs. In a way, it’s an exceptional brand. And it’s luxurious, too.”
Kondo“The reason I created this motorcycle series is that I used to ride a BMW motorcycle, so I really understand how riders feel. Almost without exception, riders look incredibly cool (laughs) when they’re on their bikes and riding, but the moment they get off, take off their helmets, and start walking, they feel like the most pathetic-looking person in the world (laughs) – that uncool. They don’t get noticed even in a cafe (laughs). I hated that, so I thought, ‘Let’s make cool clothes.’”
Suzuki“About how long ago was that?”
Kondo“About three years ago. Now, people who ride DUCATIs and female riders come to buy them.”
Receiving explanations of various outerwear functions from Kondo.
Suzuki“This series includes designs for car and motorcycle riding, cycling, and also for town use, but do you have any leather coats?”
Kondo“As you probably know, Suzuki-san, when driving a car, don’t coats get in the way of your feet?”
Suzuki“I see. So, you’re not too keen on coats.”
Kondo“That’s right (laughs). I’m not too keen. Sorry, that’s exactly it (laughs). I tend to come up with ideas based on what’s closely related to daily life, so if cars start having seats where you can move around in the back, I’ll consider coats (laughs).”
Mr. Kaneyoshi Kondo
L&KONDO (Le Kondo)
Designer Kaneyoshi Kondo established his brand career starting with 'KONDO' in '93, after working as a freelancer. In 2002, he changed the brand name to 'L&KONDO' and has been creating high-sensitivity, high-quality items with the theme of "the elegant flow of time" that can be felt through leather.
http://l-kondo.com