TWELV takes a step back and visits the masterminds behind the camera.
Noritaka Tatehana
Shoe designer Noritaka Tatehana harnesses his secret forces of shoe construction to snag the attention of international fashionistas like Lady Gaga and Daphne Guiness. Tatehana has cemented himself as a fashion footwear connieseur with his latest collection. The artist's archived work is also currently on display at Comme des Garçons in Seoul and Tokyo.
TWELV caught up with Noritaka for an interview. The designer discusses his fashion point of view, citing his mom as an influence.
1. Describe the Noritaka Tatehana girl? Describe the average woman wearing your shoes.
Independent women who wear them as a self-expression, women who want to have self-confidence, and women are urged by modern ages.
2. Who is your favorite designer?
I can say I was deeply influenced by Martin Margiela who led me to this world. I also used to say Rei Kawakubo until I met her, but now she sees me as a colleague.
3. Who is the most intriguing fashion personality you’ve met?
It is so hard to choose the ‘most’. Lady Gaga and Daphne Guinness share identities beyond words like ’fashion’ or ‘icons’… Honestly the most intriguing fashion personality could be my mom.
4. FASHION: Denim is oversaturating street style worldwide. What is your stance on double denim?
Yes, denim style has become a world standard now. This reflects the times. You can’t obtain a style like that without influence from mixed cultures. The Okinawan traditional resist dyed cloth Bingata (kimono) were popular in the 14th century. The bold and colorful, yellow dyed Bingata was only allowed to be worn in Ryukyu Kingdom. Today it is a widespread practice. It’s important to modernize old styles. This is what propels fashion as an industry.
5. Have you yourself ever broken Fashion Law?
No, I haven’t thought about breaking the rules. If my designs became new standards, then I wouldn’t have to worry about breaking rules.
Excerpt from Noritaka Tahtehana's TWELV Questions
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