Maiko Kurogouchi has played with a lot of colour for Uniqlo’s newest collection. ‘For this season, we have prepared a discerning lineup of items in color tones that have a sense of depth produced with mottled yarn reminiscent of autumn meadows that shine with a golden glow in the breeze, and the soft light produced by the changing seasons. We have also used knitting techniques that enhance delicacy, and sheer lace materials that make the skin more beautiful and attractive,’ she tells us. ‘In addition to the thin and smooth HEATTECH silk blend material, there is a new soft HEATTECH wool blend waffle material. The lightweight, sheer mesh material which is perfect for winter has fine patterns, with delicate and iconic cuttings that produce timeless designs with a refined elegance typical of Mame Kurogouchi.’ Read our full conversation below.
Can you make the distinction between how both yours and UNIQLO's sensibilities have come together in this collection?
The design characteristics that are a central feature of Mame Kurogouchi, mainly the cutting to make women look beautiful, was combined with UNIQLO's technology, delivering the type of comfort that I wanted. I am pleased that we were able to create underwear that is not only beautiful, but comfortable to wear.
How would you describe it in your own words?
It’s a sort of pathos. Coziness leads to intimacy. The theme for this season's campaignvisuals was different homes in London and Scotland. In contrast to London’s urban spaces, we focused on depicting the sort of nostalgia and intimacy that many people associate with a different country, like a country house in Scotland. I think that ultimately, we were able to portray the intimacy, nostalgia, and melancholy in each space, and the moments when I experience such emotions are when I feel most moved in the creative process, which is an important element. This collection was created not only for city dwellers, but all women, filled with faint feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
Let’s talk about the colour palette and what informed that decision for you.
This season, the colour palette draws inspiration from the natural world, such as browns reminiscent of golden ears of rice, and the beige that washes over the earth in autumn. Colors that combine strength and delicacy can be layered to create new expressions.
Words Hansika Lohani
Date 08.09.2023