Lookbooks

Japanese-born menswear designer Ichiro Suzuki is showing us how it is done. (http://www.ichirosuzuki.co.uk/about.html)

He is a multitasking master, studying at the Royal College of Art, working at Savile Row, and creating his own label of three collections that have a  British gentlemen-meets-Alice in Wonderland vibe. On top of all that, Ichiro is a finalist in the fashion competition ITS (http://www.itsweb.org/jsp/en/index/index.jsp) and will be preparing made-to-measure suits exclusively available this September in Tokyo.  We found out about his passion for tailoring and what type of stylish man he strives to create. 

Tell us about yourself as a Designer.

I put my heart and soul into my work and immerse myself into the project: breathing the fabric, living the design. I want to provide a flashy first impression. 

What's a day like at the studio?

I don't have a studio. I visualize, externalize and materialize my ideas in my head, I make a huge amount of samples. My bosses are kind  enough to let me use the machinery and as I work three days a week, I  start my projects from 6PM until midnight. When I am off I still go into work in the mornings and on weekends, that way I have longer hours to design.

Doesn't sound like you have time to rest! What is it like being a cutter at Savile Row tailors Henry Poole & Co? 

It has been fantastic to be surrounded by very skillful individuals. I enjoy using traditional methods when cutting and using ceremonial and livery costumes. 

Would you talk us through your Tweedissimo 2006 collection?

Tweed is considered ideal for casual sporting jackets; I aim to change this view. The collection mixes classic techniques with contemporary silhouettes. 

Can you describe the man your clothes are designed for? 

Young professionals, aged 20-35, who enjoy a night-out, dress well and feel careless, nonchalant and cool.  I would like my customers to buy not because of need, but because of want. 

Could you describe to us the 'perfect' British gentlemen?

Typically, he wears a 1oz. navy or petrol blue chalk stripe flannel jacket over a white shirt in Sea Island cotton. Paired with a woven blue polka dot tie, silk pocket square, and a pair of black oxfords. It would be nice if he had a handed-down old watch, gold cuff links, and signet ring. 

Can you tell us three things no-one knows about you?

I can't tell you three but I can give you one: going against my nature and instinct, I wear clothes in public.