“MONCLER GENIUS” is an innovative project in which “MONCLER” invites world-renowned designers as guests to present their collaborations.
Last year, Jonathan Anderson participated in this colossal project for the first time and unveiled the second collection of “1 MONCLER JW ANDERSON”.
Looking back at his roots in the UK and his own brand “JW ANDERSON”, he has combined them with the craftsmanship of “MONCLER” to create this latest collection that will touch viewer’s heart.
Each item has nomadic elements based on adventurous ideas such as a fisherman sailing in the deep sea, a woman waiting on land who makes a highly crafted quilt, and a sunset reflected on the water.
This time, Lula JAPAN interviewed to Jonathan with the release of this collection.
We asked him about the positive messages he put into the second season, his strong thought for creation, and his prospects of the future.
Could you tell us an overview or a theme that was behind the new collection, 1 MONCLER JW ANDERSON?
I was looking at this idea of adventure and optimism.
The thought of travel right now seems so remote given the pandemic. I thought there was something very optimistic about that.
What inspired you throughout the creation process, and what kind of story or background is behind that theme?
When we were starting this collection, we looked back at a bag we had done at JW Anderson that used old sails.
The technical side of the sail fabric and the stitching influenced some of the pieces of the collection and really reinforced this idea of travel.
I imagined the people wearing it sailing off into the horizon on an adventure.
This is the second season that you have collaborated with MONCLER.
What are your thoughts on these creations?
It’s been incredible to work with MONCLER and the team.
I really enjoy it because it feels like a real collaboration.
I think we bring new things to the table on both sides that produce really strong collections.
We found a vibrant color palette and detailed kilting designs into the new collection.
Could you tell us what points of the collection you personally like the most?
I really like the bright, primary colours.
They feel quite bright and optimistic and I felt that’s important right now.
The detailed quilting was inspired by a vintage quilt I had at home that has been in my family for years so there is a personal side to those pieces that I enjoy.
Are there any items that you are already wearing yourself or that you particularly like?
I haven’t even received the collection yet, but I am looking forward to being able to get outdoors this spring, hopefully, and wear some of the jackets.
The coronavirus continues to restrict our lives these days, however have you had any change in your mind for creating new things because of it?
The design process and how I have been working with my teams through the pandemic has certainly changed.
Fittings happen via video and I can’t always be in the office to review everything, but my approach has stayed the same I think.
I have really just focused on the creativity and trying new things, but that’s something I think I have always done.
The world is rapidly changing in times of pandemic due to coronavirus, including digitalization of fashion shows for collection release for fashion industry.
How do you think the existence of fashion will change from now on?
The pandemic has obviously been devastating but if anything “good” can come out of this I think it’s challenging us, and especially fashion, to look at new ways of presenting collections and selling fashion.
I think some of those changes will stick around, at least I hope they do, and I think some brands will go back to the way things were before.
It will be interesting to see how it all plays out in the end.
What kind of creations are you aiming for in this situation? Please tell us your vision for the future.
I want to be optimistic about the future.
I have to be.
I think fashion is about projecting into the future and we need to design for better times.
I plan to stay curious and stay creative.
Jonathan Anderson：
One of the leading designers in the current fashion scene.
He has been creating fantastic pieces for his eponymous label and other high-maison brand.
His collection rooted in an appreciation of craft, nature and creation has playfulness and sophisticated technique fascinates the viewers.
