08.04.10

Performance Sewing

Theatre Products

I have a big obsession with Japanese fashion, and although I wouldn’t personally wear ninety percent of the concoctions that I’ve seen, I respect and admire the ballsy attitude of everyone that does. I crave the imagery of Japanese fashion, and all of its subcultures. I love the cute nature of anime otaku and Lolita, and the sexy but pretty aesthetic of ero-kawaii. There is so much sexuality going on in the streets of Japan it’s insane, but it’s also great to see a big 'f*ck you' to the norm and to see young people embracing their individuality. We need a greater dose of that in Britain for sure.

While scouring the internet for Japanese designers, I came across 'Theatre Products'. They state that their label is about combining the dramatics of the theatre with clothing as an expression of oneself. This is deeply rooted with producer Kao Kanamori’s connection after studying the art of theatre at London’s Central Saint Martin’s. Utilizing their love of art and performance, not only do they show at Japan Fashion Week but have also held exhibitions to showcase not just the final product, but all aspects of getting to that point, from the making of the collection to taking important phone calls and holding meetings, “they [the public] were more nervous about it than we were, wondering if they should be looking.”

What I love about this brand is that their clothes, although eccentric in some areas, are also accessible at the same time. I love it when a designer can mix the two qualities and create something beautiful and off centre, and Theatre Products execute this perfectly. Fingers crossed that their collections will become available here in the UK, so that I can start to live out my Japanese dreams without the drama of immigrating.

Posted by Leanne Jay Boulton

Tags: Theatre Products