Okaniwa Tomoaki
Okaniwa Tomoaki
The Viridi-anne designer
Q: First, please introduce yourself.
A: I'm Tomoaki Okaniwa from The Viridi-anne. This brand started in 2001, so next year will be its 20th anniversary.
Q: What was the inspiration for the designs in this 2021SS collection?
A: I happened to come across this book in an art book store and it seemed like all the pieces of the puzzle fell into place, so I decided on the theme of an entomologist's lifestyle. I drew the design illustrations with the image of the indoor and outdoor life of an entomologist in mind.
Q: I heard that you actually got in contact with the artist of this art book afterwards.
A: Yes. I asked if I could use their illustrations, and they made it happen.
Q: How do you usually create a collection?
A: I start by looking at different materials.
Q: I certainly feel that The Viridi-anne's use of materials is very original.
A: Usually about half of the collection is made up of original fabrics, and even if they are not original we add a little extra effort, such as processing, to give them the distinctive look of The Viridi-anne.
Q: What materials are you drawn to?
A: One criterion is whether the material is beautiful.
At the same time, we strive to create unique materials, for example by increasing the number of stitches when we want the fabric to have firmness, or by using tightly twisted cotton rather than cupra or rayon when we want a drape.
Q: In terms of design and materials, what is it that makes The Viridi-anne unique?
A: Whatever I create, I always try to leave something a little out of place.
Q: You have created a capsule collection using Cordura Nyco Japan quarity this time, but what was your impression of the fabric brand Cordura originally?
A: When you think of Cordura, you think of nylon, but the Nyco material we used this time looks like cotton but contains nylon, so it has a three-dimensional look and shape-retaining quality that makes the creases look plump and easy to fold, which I really liked.
Q: You really liked the twill material.
A: Yes. I washed the part that wasn't layered, and it gave it a great creasing and texture.
Q: This three-layer mountain parka and backpack were a hit with me!
A: Thank you. I really like the three-layer twill fabric that you made for me. It has a matte finish and a classic look, unlike the typical three-layer nylon that has an outdoor feel.
Q: Finally, thank you for creating such a wonderful capsule collection this time! I was honestly surprised at how well-made it was, beyond my expectations.
A: Thank you very much.
I am very happy with the capsule collection, so I would love to work with you again if the opportunity arises.
Biography
Mr. Tomoaki Okaniwa
designer.
Born in Nagano Prefecture in 1963. After graduating from the Department of Painting at Tokyo Zokei University, he taught himself pattern making and sewing and embarked on the path to fashion design. He has been involved in a wide range of activities, including developing women's collections and holding runway shows in the underground scene. In 2001, he launched the men's label The Viridi-anne and opened a flagship store in Gaienmae. In 2013, he moved to Ebisu, where he remains to this day.