BEHIND THE BRAND
The UKIYO story / Philosophy
“ Living in the moment, being detached from the bothers of life ”
Because of my admiration for Japanese culture, art, and fashion, I started UKIYO. I was raised in a creative and artistic environment, so starting something in this sector didn’t come out of the blue. With a family, who taught me everything there is to know about art, I learned at a young age how valuable and timelessness a single object cán- and so many times deserves to be. How slowing down and taking the time to appreciate the smallest detail can be of the greatest joy.
In my opinion, clothing can just as well be a piece of art. A special item that deserves the time to be looked at, cherished, and enjoyed. Where aging doesn’t equal decay but just adds something to the story of a piece. I strongly feel that this mindset is still missing too much in today's fashion landscape so that’s where I want to contribute with UKIYO.
When we look at the definition of the Japanese term “UKIYO” it tells us about living in the moment, being detached from the bothers of life. You can see this in the preciseness with which Japanese art is made, but I also feel that this principle is so comparable to the mindset of young kids, running around and just being there in the moment. Truly detached from the “bothers of life”. Having a “mini-me” running around made me realize what a great characteristic this is.
If we would all take the “Ukiyo-mindset” to heart, just like the youngest among us, I do believe the world will be a little prettier.
Our Vision (on fashion)
“Take time to slow down and believe in creating quality”
In a world where raw materials are becoming scarce, I think it is important to act accordingly. Especially with fast fashion being one of the most polluting industries in the world, I feel like there is a lot to win here. That’s why sustainability is an important motivation for UKIYO. The most prominent pillars for us in this field are local production and lasting quality.
We believe that good quality begins with patience in the producing process. Everything we make is made of beautiful, sustainable, and used fabrics. Our entire collection, and every single detail, is produced locally in Arnhem, the Netherlands. We search for fabrics that have already been used or those that have been left behind. After that, we design the clothing to be as solid as can be. This ensures that an item will remain beautiful.
*In addition to our (environmental) statement:
I am fully aware that this is a massive and complicated topic that has too many aspects and implications to be described in this short text. I will never want to imply that I have all the solutions, but I will do everything in my power to research and implement every step or process that makes this brand more sustainable, in the purest sense of that word. I look up to other brands that take a lead in this field and will hope to be or become an example for others.
