We spoke to Jonathan Anderson about the concept and inspiration behind the 2024 Spring/Summer Collection.
Can you tell us about this season's concept and collection? What about mid-century design and craftsmanship appealed to you for this collection?
I was looking at garments that artists would wear while working and the different techniques used in architecture and the arts back then. For example, the abstract prints in the collection are inspired by British tapestry weaving techniques, as well as the color palette used in each of the pieces this season.
A lot of the styles and silhouettes are based on artists' clothes, painter's smocks, and garments that artists would wear while working.
Can you tell us more about the color palette this season?
The color palette is inspired by mid-century British artists' work, as well as the use of bright primary colors. In this collection, we have softer, muted natural tones from artists' workwear.
Tell us about the pieces you're most excited about.
The pieces with a graphic texture are inspired by textile craftsmanship.
Can you tell us about your decision to partner with real artists living in London for the campaign?
We thought it would make so much sense to feature the collection in real artists where the inspiration comes from, so it feels organic.
What other art forms do you tap into to feel inspired?
Inspiration can always come from very different types of art, like a film or a piece of furniture.
What makes you excited to partake in this collaboration every season?
Over the years, we've formed such a relationship with UNIQLO, each collection building upon the last. There's a place for everything in creativity, and we've learned how to translate our ideas to appeal to a broader demographic. There is a lot of collaboration between our teams.
What are some of the challenges you face when you're starting a new collection?
Fundamentally, fashion often functions as a mirror of society—so in this way, fashion must always change with it. Across the various projects and brands I work with, I always put my all in—so people can buy into it, whether through my own brand or now through collaborating with UNIQLO. It always requires a different avenue of my brain when they all answer to different parts of the market.
What does quality mean to you? How do you define LifeWear?
UNIQLO has such a broad, global audience, so it forces you to think differently. The collection has to appeal to many demographics. But I think many people relate to the product – they get the essence of the brand at an amazing quality.
I believe fashion has never been more popularized and mainstream than it is now, but ultimately, I think less is more. It's about function and tangible reality.
Also, with UNIQLO, there are always incredible capabilities. They're masters at technical fabrication development, and that is quality.