. I have a strong desire to create something that will last through the ages.
How do you feel when you see the finished items?
Haroshi:It's already great! First of all, this "Mountaineer" is great to begin with, and I am more than happy that Mr. Konno designed it and added his own essence to it.
Konno:You have created a truly special item.
Haroshi:. but what if it doesn't sell (laughs)?
Konno:Don't worry . I'm sure it will sell out soon.
Haroshi:That's cool . It must be really warm. I sometimes work in the mountains, but it's already below 0 degrees Celsius around this time of year, so I wear this to bed (laughs).
Konno:As I was making things, I became more and more interested in making things that would last through the ages. I still wear vintage down jackets made in the 60s and 70s, and I want this product to be like that. That's why I put a lot of effort into making this product, and since Haroshi's name is on it, I have to make sure that no one will say, "I wish I hadn't collaborated with you back then.
Lastly, I would like to ask you, Konno-san, as the brand celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, what are your plans for the future?
Konno:. First of all, I try to be aware of the next 10 years. What I do is the same as before, but since I started thinking about the future, I have become interested in NFT, which is a hot topic. We have been making things in the physical world, but a new world is forming in the virtual world as well, and although there are pros and cons, I personally feel that it is something that cannot be ignored. I am now interested in doing something like that as an extension of what I am involved in.
Also, we will continue to support vintage clothing stores in the same way as in the "Vintage Summit," for which HOUYHNHNM's has also been a partner, and we will continue to travel to various places around the country to visit vintage clothing stores so that they can remain in the country. Of course, we would like to see new secondhand clothing stores being established, and we will keep up with their information.
. Basically, you still want to do the same things you have always done, but you want to take on new challenges.
Konno:. Yes, that's right. Our basic policy is the same as before, and we will continue to do what we can without wavering. We do not want to betray those who support us, and we will continue to work steadily, without pushing too hard, while seeking what we can do to please them.
