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

Introduction

Every brand begins with hope. But markets are unforgiving—and competition is relentless. Studio Lens builds enduring brands with clear strategy and refined execution, ensuring that hope is not lost, but transformed into strength. We don’t chase momentary visibility. We cultivate long-term growth through consistent checkpoints and close partnership.

모든 사업의 시작에는 희망이 있습니다. 그러나 현실은 냉정하고, 시장은 치열합니다. 우리는 그 희망이 꺾이지 않도록 구체적인 전략과 감각적인 결과물로 브랜드가 살아남고, 살아갈 수 있도록 돕습니다. 스튜디오렌즈는 브랜드의 일회성 성장을 목표로 하지 않습니다. 정기적인 점검과 긴밀한 관계 속에서, 클라이언트와 함께 성장합니다.

Introduction

Every brand begins with hope. But markets are unforgiving—and competition is relentless. Studio Lens builds enduring brands with clear strategy and refined execution, ensuring that hope is not lost, but transformed into strength. We don’t chase momentary visibility. We cultivate long-term growth through consistent checkpoints and close partnership.

모든 사업의 시작에는 희망이 있습니다. 그러나 현실은 냉정하고, 시장은 치열합니다. 우리는 그 희망이 꺾이지 않도록 구체적인 전략과 감각적인 결과물로 브랜드가 살아남고, 살아갈 수 있도록 돕습니다. 스튜디오렌즈는 브랜드의 일회성 성장을 목표로 하지 않습니다. 정기적인 점검과 긴밀한 관계 속에서, 클라이언트와 함께 성장합니다.

Introduction

Every brand begins with hope. But markets are unforgiving—and competition is relentless. Studio Lens builds enduring brands with clear strategy and refined execution, ensuring that hope is not lost, but transformed into strength. We don’t chase momentary visibility. We cultivate long-term growth through consistent checkpoints and close partnership.

모든 사업의 시작에는 희망이 있습니다. 그러나 현실은 냉정하고, 시장은 치열합니다. 우리는 그 희망이 꺾이지 않도록 구체적인 전략과 감각적인 결과물로 브랜드가 살아남고, 살아갈 수 있도록 돕습니다. 스튜디오렌즈는 브랜드의 일회성 성장을 목표로 하지 않습니다. 정기적인 점검과 긴밀한 관계 속에서, 클라이언트와 함께 성장합니다.