PROFILE
Born in 1992. Born in Shizuoka, Japan. An architect turned apparel salesman, he became independent in 2018 and uses social networking sites such as Instagram and YouTube to communicate his fashion ideas. He launched his own eponymous brand, RYO TAKASHIMA, and also works with rams and WEISS. At the select store "plus 81," he is in charge of everything from direction to buying.
Upgrade the computer you use for your daily work.
You are also active as a YouTuber. Do you edit all your videos by yourself?
Takashima: Yes, I do everything from filming to editing. I basically do everything from filming to editing myself. I have been on Instagram for about 7 years, but there are limits to my expression, so I started a YouTube channel about 3 years ago.
I have improved my personality, which used to be a little shy, since I started sending out videos on YouTube. I also have a renewed sense of the importance of words, and I am learning every day to convey solid information," he said.
What is the best thing you have bought recently?
Takashima: After all, it is a computer. I used to use a MacBook Pro, but the screen was too small to see, so I took the plunge and bought an iMac for efficiency and comfort. It's easy to use because of its large screen and power.
Do you use it for purposes other than video editing?
Takashima: I manage the brand's web store and edit photos myself, so a computer is a must. I am glad I bought the computer because I do more work at home, partly due to the influence of Corona. It is easier to surf the Internet than a smartphone, so it is also useful for gathering information.
Sculptor-designed lighting for a comfortable space.
Do you have any new items that you have added to your home work?
Takashima: First of all, most of my room was filled with clothes, so I moved in over the summer to make room for a work space. Then, I bought some lighting by [Isamu Noguchi], which I definitely wanted to use in my new home. It has the essence of both Japanese and Western styles, and when lit, it illuminates the room with a soft light. I also love the design that accentuates the room. The price is reasonable for interior design, so it is the perfect entry point for creating a fashionable room.
The AKARI series of lighting was designed by sculptor Isamu Noguchi. The series is based on the motif of Gifu lanterns, and a wide variety of designs are available to match other tastes besides Japanese. As a sculpture of light, this is a gem of a piece that decorates a room with practical artistry.
You have a background in architecture, and you also like interior design, don't you?
Takashima: I love clothes, but because I was buying clothes all the time, I couldn't spend money on interior design. But the less I went out, the less chance I had to wear the clothes I had bought, and I began to think that it was a waste. I changed my mindset and decided that if I was going to buy clothes that I would only wear for one season, I would rather spend money on interior design that I could use for decades to come. Even if they are a little more expensive than clothes, it motivates me to work harder to buy them.
A piece of long-life design rather than a trend.
But of course you also buy clothes, don't you? Has the way you choose clothes changed?
Takashima: The less often I buy clothes, the more I buy things that I can wear for a long time. Take, for example, this down jacket from OAMC. I liked the minimalist design, which has a street-like feel, but also has a solid atmosphere. The ivory lining is also a nice touch. I plan to match it with slim pants and boots. It is lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Mr. Takashima says that until last year he often wore a coat because he could not find a down jacket that fit him well. However, this one has both the design and comfort that he is looking for.
Do you reflect this thinking in your own brand?
Takashima: Yes, we do. I use good fabrics, and think of designs that will never get old. Even if the price goes up a little, I have to do my best to make my customers understand. I am pursuing my own style that is not influenced by trends, so I hope that everyone who follows me will also follow their own style without being caught up in the opinions of others.
