Journal
Hiroki Nakamura
Visvim, Built to Last
“In the modern world, goods are flat, flat, flat. And that, to me, is boring. I’m drawn to natural stuff and unevenness, and to the humanity of things made by hand.”
In 2001, Hiroki Nakamura founded Visvim, blending Japanese tradition, American vintage, and various cultural influences to create a unique brand. His design philosophy reflects a deep appreciation for originality and a reverence for the craftsmanship of the past. Drawing inspiration from vintage clothing, he reinterprets it for the modern age, introducing the concept of "Future Vintage," which embodies his focus on creating timeless products that retain their quality and beauty over time.
Visvim's rise beyond a typical fashion brand is due to its commitment to handcrafted products. Nakamura emphasizes the use of traditional techniques, such as indigo dyeing and meticulous handcrafting, which give each item a distinct texture and color. For instance, Visvim's FBT moccasin, inspired by Native American attire, is a reinterpretation that combines tradition with modern comfort and enduring value.
Nakamura’s success stems not only from the artisanal value he finds in vintage craftsmanship but also from his methods of production. By blending traditional techniques with modern materials, he creates clothing that is both durable and comfortable. His "Social Sculpture" denim, for example, draws inspiration from 1930s-40s workwear, yet provides modern comfort through its design.
Nakamura's Visvim philosophy closely aligns with brand design. The handcrafted approach mirrors the tailored, client-specific nature of brand design, where unique needs are met with custom solutions. His ability to draw from the past and reinterpret it in a modern context also parallels how design studios combine references to create new identities. Just as Nakamura’s work goes beyond mere products, brand design involves capturing and conveying a client’s unique story. This sustainable, distinctive design philosophy is why Visvim remains highly valued and beloved, even in a fast-moving, trend-driven market.
Source
New York Times, Master&Dynamic, MAEKAN, Peopleamkeplaces, AestheticsofDesign, Grailed, SSENSE
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