We spoke to Jonathan Anderson about the inspiration and concept behind the Spring/Summer 2022 collection.
What inspired you to make the ocean the theme of your collection, and what mood do you aim to convey?
I have a house by the coast in the English county of Norfolk, so I often visit the beach near there. The mood is relaxed, light, and optimistic, with a youthful spirit overall.
Nautical patchwork and embroidery are central to this collection. Why? And what is your favourite item?
I wanted to dive further into the idea of craft by using classic shirting stripes as inspiration for the boat patchwork. This evolved into the patchwork jacquard socks.
My favourite item is the boat patchwork sweatshirt in grey melange.
What does the sea mean to you?
It means holidays, escapism, time to relax and breathe in.
The shoot for this collection took place on a sailboat. In what ways does sailing inspire you?
I usually spend my summer holidays in Ibiza, and I am from Northern Ireland so I am always surrounded by the sea.
You have worked on many collections for other brands. What do you find different about working on UNIQLO LifeWear?
Working with UNIQLO is different because there is an opportunity to dress a global audience, which is exciting. Also, being connected to Japan and Japanese culture.
Why did you commission Theo Wenner to photograph this collection?
I've been following his work for a while, and I find it very inspiring. Particularly the beach images, and the way he captures youth.
The pandemic has robbed many young people of two years of opportunity. What's your advice to budding designers?
Keep trying, use this time to create, reinvent yourself, and explore new ideas that you didn't consider before. Make it a passage of discovery and try new things.
Is there any particular country or city you want to visit after the pandemic abates, and why?
I would like to just go to the countryside where I can enjoy nature and go for long walks.