Meet GFF International Talent, Yuumi Ueda from Osaka Institute of Fashion. Yuumi’s final year collection was inspired by the role of fashion and clothing in a wider cultural landscape. Through researching the connection between social issues and fashion, she discovered Mod culture and aims to bring together elements of this, and Japanese culture, in her collection. Read on below!
Tell us about you, where are you from, what lead you to fashion and choosing that course?
I am from Osaka, Japan. I studied Political Science for two years at university and from then on I knew I wanted to contribute something to the world. I am attracted to how fashion is not only influenced by society but how it can also have a significant impact on it. Through fashion I wanted to spread my message to the world. The reason why I chose the Super Designer Department at Osaka Institute of Fashion is because this course trains world-class designer through their education curriculum.
Describe the inspiration and concept behind your work. Talk us through your final project and your research process. How did that come about?
Usually I am inspired by the current social situation or tendencies. I started researching for this collection because I wondered why young Japanese people are not concerned about social issues. Then, I became aware of the subculture called “MODS” that was started in London by young, working class people. With a strong desire for us to be the ones who have the power to change the world like young, British people did at that time, I decided upon “MY GENERATION” for the name of my concept.
Tell us about your design process. How do you work? How do you take your research and develop your own designs?
My design process consisted of spending a lot of time researching this subculture. Then, I collected materials to create visuals, sketches and collages. While I was making collages, I gathered images, volumes, colours and silhouette. After that I put all the rough sketches and details together.
Tell us about your collection development. How do you toile, how do you like to pattern cut, do you like to drape?
First I cut out patterns and then I dressed the mannequin. I also draped the fabric to adjust the volume.
Talk us through your final collection and each outfit. Why where these the final designs?
I redesigned the “tight” look of MODS fashion for women by adding “movement” to the cloth.
What materials have you used within the collection and how did you source them? Why were this the right material for your collection?
When I was choosing the materials, I was conscious of the colour, thickness and contrast. Also, as “movement” is a key part of the design I chose lighter fabric.
Tell us about your illustration technics. Explain your final line up and what art materials and technics you use to showcase it.
While I illustrate, the most important part of the process is making collages. However, for this collection, I drew in watercolour. This is because watercolour is a good way to express the feel of the fabric.
What part of your final project have you enjoyed most and why?
The part I enjoyed the most was researching this trend. In this industry, it is always important to do this first before designing a collection. Being aware of what is going on in the world and current social issues is key to find something new and consider what kind of message I want to give to the world.
What’s an aspect of the fashion industry that you’re passionate about fixing or having a positive impact on?
Compared to other countries, I think that there are still many things to be improved upon within the Japanese fashion industry. Japan has a lot of young excellent designers, but it is difficult to receive international attention. That is why I want to try and bring “TOKYO BRAND” to the rest of the world.
What is your plan once you finish your BA? Where do you wish to be in the future?
My dream is to be an active designer in Japan and improve the Japanese fashion industry. I want the world to know that there are many outstanding designers in Japan and more young people to take an interest in fashion.