S: What are the key elements of your work and your style, if you were to choose a few adjectives, what would they be?
MM: I'd use the words "indirect expression', I don't want to be too direct. I prefer using tricky details in design or special finishing or working on the development of new, special materials. If I must find only a word to describe my work and style that word would be: abstract.
S: What keeps you connected to Italy?
MM: The good environment that stimulates creation. Milan is a big city but I feel the time is passing slower, so I have more time to think and concentrate about my vision and to create my design.
S: What is Japanese about your collections and what on the other hand, is more European?
MM: Philosophy and identity are very Japanese. I admire Japanese Wabi-Sabi, aesthetic philosophy which is always behind the concept of Giuliano Fujiwara's creations. We Japanese think that beauty exists in imperfection. The manufacturing process of Fujiwara's clothes is instead European. I am very respectful of Italian manufacturing and craftsmanship.
S: Are there any new Japanese fashion designers that you appreciate?
MM: Nigo of Bathing Ape, but maybe he is nolonger new. What they are making is totally different from what I do in terms of style, but I believe his creations have influenced and changed the world of street wear in a more refined way.
S: What is synonymous with elegance for you today?
MM: Sophistication.
S: Do you think that the concept of 'luxury' still makes sense, in a time of global economic recession like what we are living right now?
MM: If by 'luxury' you mean quality , it always makes sense. On the contrary a flamboyant attitude and state of mind are not necessary at all.
S: What could be compared to luxury these days?
MM: Modesty is the perfect word to describe what I think is real luxury today.
S: So what are some of your future projects? Will there ever be a Giuliano Fujiwara women's wear collection?
MM: Sooner or later I would like to start designing a women's wear collection. You aren't wrong in asking that, it is something that definitely is on my mind for the future.
Ciao,
Stefano
