Aski Kataski F/W 09.10 pieces

Another one of my favorite 'newer' designers, Katsuhiro Makino, also has the great ability to produce pieces that are a world of intrigue on all their own. I am never really a fan of his lookbook images - not because the styling isn't great and not that the pieces don't always look covetable - it's just that they leave the viewer with only a vague 'feel' for his overall style... and not a chance to really admire his pieces for what they really are.

The organic feel, plus the celestial overall designs, it's really special. I adore his color palette and his craftsmanship; his pieces feel honest and have such a slight of hand quality that I'm so attracted to. They are not over-the-top at all or shocking aesthetically, but the amount of magic that lies within the materials, detailing, proportions - it's enough to leave one in awe. I hope that the brand will start seeing a surge in retail interest soon, much like I do with Takayuki's.

Aski Kataski Fall 2009

For the fall Aski Kataski collection, designer Katsuhiro Makino did what he does best – a wonderful job of encompassing his signature elements which carry over from one season to the next and marrying it with a new theme. The harmony between the fantasy and utilitarian aspects is done with such grace and executed so well, it’s really a dream to look at.

Aside from how beautiful the clothes look, their function, which is arguably more important, is just as impressive. Not only well made but clothes that are really meant to be worn. And yes, while this should be the case for every designer, what makes Makino’s work that much more admirable is that he often uses textiles from 60+ years ago and miscellaneous antique materials to create his pieces. It is nice when people restore or reinvent things instead of always leaving the past to be just that, the past. I appreciate that this designer thrives on nostalgia but meanwhile makes the nostalgic materials all his own by creating something entirely new and beautiful.