What excites you in fashion right now?
All the designers changing at the major houses, but also wondering how many of their customers are actually aware of it.
What is one reason to be optimistic about the state of fashion going forward?
The different visions those designers bring and the way they mix things up.
In what ways do you think AI might benefit fashion?
I’ve just asked AI about it. “AI is evolving from a mere image generator into a fundamental engine for the entire fashion lifecycle. Beyond making pretty pictures, here are the key ways AI is benefiting the industry.” For marketing, I think it’s great, but it is already becoming difficult to distinguish what is AI and what is reality. We may already be inside AI without even realising it. However, fashion is what we wear in real life, every day. We will still seek reality, humanity, the physical touch of materials and fabrics, and the joy of wearing clothes.
Who or what will drive the greatest change in fashion this year?
Jonathan Anderson, he is never afraid of challenging fashion. I also think of Matthieu Blazy.
There seems to be more overlap between fashion and entertainment, and fashion and sport, than ever before. Thoughts?
It sometimes feels forced, as though brands are investing more effort in this overlap primarily to drive sales.
Do trends still matter?
I don’t know. I’ve never cared about trends. Who decides them anyway? Something underground becomes overground within five years. I preferred it when it was underground.
What is your favourite way to compliment someone’s style?
“Cute.” Because I’m Japanese.
Can you suggest a fashion mantra for 2026?
I think the new generation knows much more and is far more mature than my own generation, but I also think they are bored. Everything is ready for them: products, style, life. Everything can be learned from Google. I believe it is always better to explore and experience things by yourself.
This interview has been lightly edited.
