UNIQLO's clothing enthusiasts recommend these items.
Nowadays, every opportunity to step outside is special, whether it’s to shop, meet with friends, or do something else. Not surprisingly, more and more people are turning to classy attire that remains easy to style. And they’re turning to UNIQLO, which is a treasure of masterpiece items offering huge varieties of designs, colors, and sizes. For this series, we invited creators who love clothes to introduce the UNIQLO items that they like so much. Stylist Arata Kobayashi and cuisine expert Kazuki Kitahara begin the series.
Q. Mr. Kobayashi, you often wear shorts in summer. What do you like to wear in particular?
A. I’m almost always wearing chino shorts from early summer to early fall. When it comes to chino shorts, I’ve been wearing them for about 10 years now. I have about 10 pairs of varying fabrics and lengths. I like them because they fit the classy looks that I prefer, but I also like them because they gain character the more that I wear them.
Q. Why did you choose UNIQLO’s chino shorts?
A. Their unique feel and their soft wear comfort are nice. They end just above the knees, and their silhouette isn’t too wide, so they’re perfect for me, personally. The shorts don’t lose their form after repeated laundering, so they can be frequently laundered without concern. Furthermore, they gain character after laundering. A single pair offers a long time of use. Ever since I began wearing these shorts, I’ve been reminded that the summer chino shorts are ideal. These shorts are extremely versatile. I wear them to work, such as for meetings and photo shoots.
Q. What are your rules or preferences when styling these shorts?
A. Basically, I often coordinate light, long-sleeve items, like a linen shirt or a summer knit, although midsummer I will wear a T-shirt. If you’re 40 or older and you’re coordinating these, you’ll want to consider the balance that forms between the shorts’ knee-length cut and attire that’s appropriate for your age. You’ll also want to consider choosing a shirt that’s a size up and tucking it in. Then, use accessories, like a scarf and a wallet chain, to accent the look. Imagine bringing out the chino shorts’ chic nature instead of styling them in a casual manner.
Q. That’s a breezy, classy look that’s ideal for summer. It makes a great impression.
A. You can have more fun with summer looks if you can imagine a resort feel or a laid-back appearance. Personally, I think about coordinating espadrilles or leather sandals and creating breezy looks. I also recommend the white chino shorts.
【Modeled Items】
Chino Shorts
Q. Do you often wear polo shirts in summer?
A. Yes. About three years ago, I was buying them a lot. I’ve started looking at them again because I want to wear them again. I generally choose a polo shirt when I want a classy, classic look or a grownup feel.
Q. Why do you like UNIQLO’s Dry Pique Polo Shirts in particular?
A. The Dry feature is irresistible. Pique can feel crunchy, depending on the fabric, but UNIQLO’s is smooth and not irritating. Plus, UNIQLO’s polo soaks up perspiration, and it dries quickly. It’s amazing that quality of this level is available at around 2,000 yen. I was in an eatery’s kitchen during a shoot, but the shirt was comfortable and pleasant even though the kitchen was hot. It’s great for when I cook as well.
Q. You’re tall, yet the silhouette is still perfect.
A. The size lineup lets you find the silhouette that you like and want. That’s another selling point. Polo shirts are easy to style because they’re tastefully respectable, but if you choose the right size, you can get a very smart appearance. I want a contemporary feel, so I look at the silhouette when choosing the model. The polo that I’m wearing today is an XXL. The shoulders droop just a little, and that’s perfect for me. I’ve got a solid build, so I’m glad that I can choose larger sizes.
Q. What do you strive for when styling the Dry Pique Polo Shirt?
A. I opt for bigger sizes or ones that look bigger. This polo’s fabric is smooth. It’s classy, too, so I paired them to black slacks to make a chic black-and-white look. The foundation is straightforward, so I added a playful element through a pearl necklace and silver bangles. The coming days will be hotter, but it might be a good idea to add this polo to an outfit and try a clean-look arrangement. This polo is great for a wide range of styled looks, from modern and casual to trad and preppy.
【Modeled Items】
Dry Pique Polo Shirt
【Staff Credit】
Photographer; Kousuke Matsuki
Text & Edit; Hisamoto Chikaraishi