This article originally appeared on i-D Japan.
In town to celebrate the opening of his namesake brand’s new flagship store opening, Jonathan Anderson drew a huge crowd when he arrived at its impressive Shibuya location. JW Anderson fans filled the store and spilled out into the street outside; the vibrant atmosphere more than fitting of such an occasion. But the night was just getting started. After swinging by the store event, the next stop for Jonathan was a dinner party co-hosted by i-D Japan and JW Anderson.
The venue was buzzing with familiar faces — i-D friends and family including actor Shioli Kutsuna, model Serena Motola and musician-actor Miyavi Lee Ishihara. A who’s who of Tokyo creatives coming together for a night of shared food, freeflowing conversation, and appreciation for a certain UK designer. Hip-hop artist Yuki Chiba aka KOHH was on music curation duties, while floral arrangements came courtesy of flower artist Yasutaka Ochi.
Just about managing to drag attendees away from discussions with their fellow artists, we quizzed some of them on their love of JW Anderson and the world of fashion.
Yamato Inoue, model / DJ / digital artist
Tell us about the highlight of your look today…
The cross-body bag shaped like a cap.
What do you love about JW Anderson?
Jonathan’s vibe. It’s a bit hard to put into words, but when I watched his show, I felt it. The show’s music syncs with the clothes, and each piece carries a unique vibe.
What does fashion mean to you?
A canvas for self-expression.
How would you describe your style?
A mix of high-end with vintage. I try to weave in my version of sustainability while putting together my favourite looks.
Shizuka Ishibashi, actor
Tell us about the highlight of your look today…
A one-piece dress. Buttoning it up gives the whole look a neat touch. I find it fascinating how the way you choose to button it changes the whole mood of the look.
What’s your thought process when choosing clothes?
Depends on the moment and place. On hectic work days with lots of moving around, I lean towards comfy fabrics. At these gatherings, it’s about showing respect for those around. I think fashion can create a connection.
What does fashion mean to you?
When I’m acting, what I wear can shape the character. Just the choice of clothes becomes a form of expression. In that sense, fashion entertains and gives me a comfy space.
Meirin, musician
Tell us about the highlight of your look today…
The unbeatable comfort. Since I usually go for black, it feels really reassuring.
What do you love about JW Anderson?
I adore pigeons, so when I laid eyes on JW Anderson’s Pigeon Clutch Bag, it felt like my kind of thing.
What travel tip would you give to Jonathan while he’s in Japan?
There’s a shrine in Matsumoto City, Nagano, that’s totally full of pigeons. Definitely worth recommending!
Gliiico (Kai, Nico & Kio de Torres), musicians / models
Tell us about the highlight of your look today…
Kai de Torres: These frog-themed frog loafers.
And what does style mean to you three?
Nico de Torres：Something that’s there from the moment you wake up.
Kio de Torres：Absolutely agree.
@gliiicogliiico @kai4ai @n.d.t.sound @kiodetorres
Serena Motola, model & actor
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is a transformational force for me.
How does dressing up make you feel?
Putting on clothes gives me a boost of energy and lifts my mood.
HIMI, singer / songwriter / model
How would you describe your style?
Cute clothes that draw me in.
What Tokyo tips would you give to Jonathan?
Todoroki Ravine. It’s a spot in Tokyo with nature and shrines, despite being in the city.
Rina Ohta, model & actor
What do you love about JW Anderson?
I’ve got a JW Anderson knit from several years ago that I still love. It’s a bold design but somehow seamlessly fits into my everyday life.
What Tokyo tips would you give to Jonathan?
There’s a gallery called LAVENDER OPENER CHAIR in Arakawa Ward, coupled with a dining spot called Tohmei serving Yamagata cuisine. Since I heard that Jonathan’s into art, it’s a strong recommendation.
Credits
Photography Tanase