"Not Just Visually Beautiful: ZIGGY CHEN Designer Interview"

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ZIGGY CHEN, known for designs that possess a unique nostalgic atmosphere blending Eastern and Western influences, has garnered support from dedicated fashion enthusiasts.

In this interview, we had the opportunity to delve into the inspiration and philosophy behind ZIGGY CHEN's designs.

---You recently presented your collection in Paris again, starting from the 23-24AW season.
While your home country may still be experiencing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, how has the pandemic impacted you as a designer, both negatively and positively?

ZIGGY : Of course, there have been various impacts.

On the negative side, the disruption of our usual work rhythm, significant delays in production due to rising costs of raw materials and fuel, and delays at various stages of the supply chain have been significant challenges.

On the positive side, the lockdown provided an opportunity to spend more time with family and I have had more time to reflect on my everyday life. It prompted a reevaluation of work-life balance and increased awareness of how we coexist with the world.

---Returning to the fashion capital of Paris, did you have any particular thoughts or impressions you would like to share with?

ZIGGY : After three years of twists and turns, it was very emotional and joyful to be back in Paris. . It felt as if the daily anxieties that had become normal suddenly vanished, and life and work returned to their natural state.

---Do you have an image of a man in your mind when you creating your designs?

ZIGGY : Knowing about the past is something of a hobby of mine, and history, architecture, old photographs and paintings are all great sources of information.

Some are housed in majestic and splendid museums, others are buried in flea markets, but all of these things have one thing in common: they have a beauty that we cannot see in this day and age.

My aesthetic is primarily shaped by understanding past things and appreciating things that transcend time.

Incorporating these elements into my work feels natural and an extension of my own life. It is an organic process, and there is no underlying ideology or philosophy.

---Your works demonstrate a balance between a constructive perspective and a deconstructive perspective.
Where does the inspiration for your creativity come from?

ZIGGY : Much of my inspiration for patterns and details in my clothing comes from tools, pottery, textiles, and furniture that have been used, deformed, and broken down over time.

I don't often think about it from a perspective of construction or deconstruction, but there may be a re-construction aspect to my work.

What I want to convey is the sense of deformation and decay that occurs when an object is used for a long time.

---Your creations exhibit meticulous craftsmanship, not only on the outer side of the garments but also on the inside.
In a previous interview, you mentioned wanting to create details that are focused even on the unseen parts, similar to Leica cameras. Where does your dedication to quality or the passion to achieve it come from?

ZIGGY : I drew inspiration from a vast amount of antique and vintage clothing.

I was particularly fond of clothing from the 17th and 18th centuries, both Eastern and Western, which had a level of detail and technique that is impossible to achieve in modern times.

These clothes were an education in dressmaking for me. As for my obsession and passion for quality, I think I may have been born with it. LOL!

---Your collection is full of reversible pieces, or pieces that are not reversible but can be worn as such.
Could you tell us about the inspiration behind incorporating inner beauty into your creations?

ZIGGY : For me, good clothing is always a complete package, regardless of whether it is reversible or not. Being beautiful inside and out enhances the relationship and emotional connection between oneself and the garment when wearing it.

---What has changed or remained the same over the years that you have been creating as a designer?

ZIGGY : As the saying goes, "The only constant in life is change." People are constantly evolving. If there were no change, this work would lose its meaning for me.

However, there is no major change in my own sense of values and aesthetics, only a gradual increase in new areas on top of that foundation.

At the same time, I am more willing than ever before to listen to feedback from people who wear our clothes.

This is because I believe that clothes are not only visually beautiful, but also that comfort is a very important factor.

---ZIGGY CHEN has continuously gained a devoted following, including at our store.
Do you have any messages or something you would like to convey to your fans in Japan?

ZIGGY : First and foremost, it brings me great joy to see people in Japan wearing our clothes. I still remember being greatly impressed by Japanese designers in the 1980s when I was young.

Every time I come to Japan, I am amazed by the passion for fashion and how each person has their own style.

The men's fashion market in Japan is considered the most mature market globally, and it is a challenging market with numerous outstanding designers.

Therefore, it is a great honor and a significant source of inspiration for us that people in Japan show interest in our clothes.

Inquiries about available shops and items

All the items introduced in today's blog is available at FASCINATE_THE R (Osaka Nishi Shinsaibashi) and FASCINATE KYOTO.
If you have any questions about the items, please feel free to contact us.

Inquire by e-mail

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