Interview: Jonathan Anderson talks about UNIQLO 2022 Fall/Winter JW Anderson collection
This time, Jonathan Anderson combines innovative designs with Britain’s traditional apparel with UNIQLO’s commitment to fit, materials, and functionality.
Talk us through your favourite pieces of the collection.
My favorite pieces are the puffer with contrasting patterns and fair isle knits. It’s such a quintessentially British thing, and always reminds me of my childhood. There’s an element of homeliness to this collection.
The collection is inspired by modern British architecture, what are some of your favourite buildings in the UK? Who are some of the architects you admire? How did their works inspire you and your works?
For this season, I wanted something that reflected the idea of postmodern design in terms of architecture – something that feels more crafted and historical. It’s an element of something quite personal.
We were looking at examples of midcentury design, furniture and architecture. I’m particularly a fan of the architect John Pawson – there’s a great minimalist sensibility to his work and purism in design. I really like this idea of reduction, where you can strip things back to the essence.
Do you have someone in mind when you are designing this collection?
I always want to articulate a wardrobe, rather than dictate it. Uniqlo is something in wardrobe almost daily, so this collection did in part stem from what I’d like to be wearing this season. It’s closest to what I wear myself.
JW Anderson has collaborated with other brands as well, how is this longstanding collab from Uniqlo different from the others?
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.
Over the years, we’ve formed such a relationship between the teams. Each season we’re continually building upon the last, improving and tweaking the Uniqlo x JW Anderson wardrobe.
When I interviewed you for the first collection of Uniqlo x JW Anderson, you said “normalcy is avant-garde” do you still believe in that?
I think 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.
