By
Sarah-Louise Colivet
Drawing by
Gustaf von Arbin

VISVIM


Japan’s Visvim is a true cult brand. Designer Hiroki Nakamura first began making shoes in 2001, later expanding into a full men’s ready-to-wear collection before adding his women’s line in 2013. The label’s ethos is built around the idea of a journey to happiness through the creative process. Taking inspiration from classic American workwear, Nakamura mixes artisanal elements and natural dyes into each piece, which results in a beautiful wealth of unique handmade treatments, tying together his mens- and womenswear.

The rich wool of Visvim’s Sanjuro Coat, a standout from his women’s collection inspired by trade blankets, is naturally dyed before the yarn is spun on Japanese machines that closely mimic hand-spinning techniques developed around 1876, which “slowly weave the fabric, creating an unevenness and imperfections that gives the coat depth,” Nakamura says. The draped, boxy silhouette likewise has its historical allusions, inspired as it was by “a coat worn by Taiwanese tribal people from the mountains.” Nakamura describes it as “a piece that allows me to combine several techniques that I have discovered over my time that have a feeling of authenticity or a certain power.” He adds, “In this piece, I am able to create a new garment from so many of the things that inspire me.”

For more information, please visit Visvim.tv.

By
Sarah-Louise Colivet
Drawing by
Gustaf von Arbin
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