JU-NNA BY HIS CREATOR WORDS

In our exclusive conversation, Jun Nakamura - Designer and Owner of JU-NNA discusses his work and influences to create unique pieces. We discovered a world where contemporary design meets traditional Japanese Shibori workmanship, providing a fascinating and unusual experience.

Can you tell us about your background and journey into the world of fashion design?

I have a unique background and some interesting journey until starting JU-NNA in

London. I started my career in the Kimono industry after my graduation and worked

with many kimono artisans. I left the industry and studied fashion design in Japan and

then worked in Tokyo before moving to London. I researched Shibori for my MA degree

at Istituto Marangoni London and started JU-NNA following the graduation.

What inspired you to become a fashion designer?

Working with artisans and being immersed in beautiful kimonos, I started to want to be a

designer and decided to be a fashion designer as I love fashion.

What is your design philosophy or aesthetic when creating fashion pieces?

I would like to put some artistic essence into my designs and create sophisticated designs.

Could you describe your design process from concept to the finished product?

I conduct art research every season and develop ideas based on art pieces that inspire

me. At the same time, I started considering about what would be the best way of

incorporating Shibori into this collection, size, shape, pattern, placement as well as

some manipulations. Using Shibori is like endless research and every season we find

new ideas. Due to technical restrictions on Shibori material, combining the new ideas

into the new collection is not easy but we enjoy this intense process. We also do a lot of

draping on mannequin and models to make sure that Shibori behaves in the way we

would like and match the design the best.

To what extent does your own work reflect the Japanese culture?

Other than using the Japanese traditional technique, I do not particularly intend to

include Japanese culture in my designs. However, as I spent most of my life in

In Japan, I think people can see that there is a cultural reflection in my designs.

For the creation of the traditional artisan craft of Shibori, you often concentrate on

fusing traditional Japanese techniques with modern and contemporary designs. Can

you elaborate on the technique?

Shibori is normally used to create patterns by dyeing fabrics. I focus on its 3D shape,

which is a by-product of this process, and the pleats and drapes that which Shibori structure creates. In other words, I use this traditional technique to create modern and unusual

drapes on garments.

How do you stay updated with the latest fashion trends and incorporate them into

your designs while maintaining your unique style?

I do not particularly try to follow trends. However, I enjoy observing people’s style in

London and reflecting it into collections.

Can you share a memorable moment or project that has been a highlight of your

career as a fashion designer?

This season our show was listed in the LFW official schedule and this was a great step

for me. What do you think sets your fashion brand apart from others in the industry?

I believe we are the only ones who use Shibori in our way and that makes JU-NNA

unique.

How do you approach diversity and inclusivity in your fashion designs and casting for

fashion shows or campaigns?

We always enjoy having diverse models without any bias.

What trends do you foresee in the fashion industry in the coming years, and how do

you plan to adapt to or influence them?

I think nowadays more people are enjoying slow fashion and fashion with meaningful background. We would like to explore better ways of informing our

artisanal background to as many people as possible.

Could you describe your target audience or the type of person you envision wearing

your designs?

Those who like handicrafts, ethical fashion, and art would enjoy our designs.

How do you handle criticism or negative feedback on your designs, and how do you

use it as an opportunity for growth?

I take it as a good chance to improve my designs or know what people think about

it and consider those opinions for future collections. I follow my aesthetics in the end

but it is always good to listen to any opinions.

JU-NNA's Spring/Summer 2024 line is nothing short of a sartorial masterpiece with a colour palette that alternates between serene shades of blue and yellow, capturing the wonder of the natural world. What major inspiration sparked this collection?

This season the major inspiration is the captivating sculpture “Alternating Rhythm” by

Maria Bartuszová and the mesmerizing waves created in water on rivers, seas, and

lakes.

Can you share any upcoming projects or collections that your fans and followers can

look forward to?

We already started a new collection and some pieces from the FW23 collection will drop

soon. I hope many people enjoy our designs.

Finally, what is your vision for the future of your fashion brand, and where do you see

yourself in the industry in the next few years?

I would like to keep exploring the positive future that Shibori could have for fashion and

a way that Shibori artisans can train younger generations to pass this heritage on. I

would also like to develop an environment where young talents enjoy developing JU-NNA

together.