Attire Accessories - Mar/Apr 2020 (Issue 81)

UP AND COMING 83 Tell me a bit about how the label was started. What was the inspiration? I had a different brand about 10 years ago but there was a problem concerning the trademark, so I disbanded it. That actually helped me to step back and start what I truly wanted to create again. I continued developing my designs after but it was really hard to succeed and it continued in that way for seven years. It was one of those difficult times and after pushing myself to pursue my passion I realised that it was this passion that actually kept me going and helped me through a difficult personal period. Just over a year ago, I decided to re-launch KIKIITO, inspired by my own experiences in Japan, LA and London and through my personal journey. I wanted to give people a feeling of strength and confidence to be themselves. How were the initial products developed, and what was the response? I’ve worked in product development and produced samples for many brands and independent designers for over a decade. Producing quality products is important to me. I also wanted to marry modern aesthetics and materials with traditional craftsmanship to create the look and feel that reflected the spirit of LA, the edge of London and the balance and simplicity of Japan. The response was surprisingly good. What challenges did you face, and how were they overcome when starting the business? It is hard when you have to handle multiple tasks by yourself. You never have enough time and it can be very isolating especially when you run the business alone. I must say, I still feel it sometimes, but I learnt how important it is to understand your strengths and weakness and to find the right people to work with. Try not to handle everything by yourself. What is it that sets you apart from your competitors? To create the simplest of designs requires the most intricate knowledge and complex skills. I have been lucky to learn and hone my skills over the last decade by producing products for various clients. To fully use my experience and knowledge, I am starting an exclusive made-to-order service for my customers this year. I am hoping that I will be able to provide the customer with a special experience, not only through the products but also through the journey. How important is the location and history of the company to its success? My study and training in leather goods properly started after my return to Japan from LA. I started to make samples for clients soon after I arrived in London where I was originally going to live just for a couple of years. A couple of years ended up being 15! I’ve learnt so much through my work with artisans here in London of which there are not too many left compared to the past but the few that are around still have excellent skills and history. I have been very lucky to be surrounded by them, and do what I love in one of the great cities in the world. We all have our own journey and story. The location and history is all that has been important to me and I believe that also has played a role in my company’s success. How has the product offering changed since you started, and how would you describe your current collection? The designs have developed over the years but since my relaunch it hasn’t changed much. My current collection is something special for me as it was inspired by my childhood passion for gymnastics. There is a lot I could relate to my journey and to be able to express and share my message through the collection is something I am very proud of. How often do you launch new lines? New lines are introduced throughout the year. What trade shows do you attend and why? I have not attended any trade shows as yet, although my range is shown regularly through pop up stores. What are your current best-selling designs? The Shokupan and Chimaki. How do you view the current market, and what trends – both in business and product – do you see emerging over the coming months? “Sustainability” has been one of the biggest subjects to talk about and many