Fashion is a universal language. The annual Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest (YDC) is an opportunity for up-and-coming designers to use this language of beauty to express their own unique perspectives. This year, Hideaki Shikama, chief designer of Japanese fashion brand Children of the discordance, will serve as the VIP judge. Here, he shares his view on street fashion and culture, which aims to inspire new designers eager to follow his path.
Fashion is a cross between culture and the personal experience of each designer, so every designer should tell a very different story. For Shikama, “street fashion is an affirmation of one’s own background and experience”, so the clothes he creates are not defined by a single style but a genuine reflection of his background, experience, and beliefs.
Influenced by street culture from a young age, Shikama founded Children of the discordance in 2011, and came to attention for his reworked vintage Burberry trench coats. As the line between street fashion and haute couture becomes increasingly blurred, Shikama says: “Only draw inspiration from your own experience. Don’t follow trends blindly.” This is how he keeps himself inspired and remains faithful to street fashion.
Street fashion is not only about clothing but also music, culture, and lifestyle. As a designer, Shikama says he was influenced by pioneering streetwear brand Stüssy, Polo Ralph Lauren, Levi's and other labels. He also loves street culture. “I started skateboarding at the age of 11. Throughout my ten-year artistic career, skateboarding has remained an important part of my daily life”
Apart from skateboarding, he is passionate about graffiti and the Urahara culture prevalent in Japan in the 90s. These are all elements that have shaped Shikama’s style. "I didn't incorporate these street elements into my designs deliberately, yet my style developed naturally. My perception of culture is the essence of my design.”
Shikama has a special affection for Hong Kong and is pleased to bring his Spring/Sumer 2023 collection to Hong Kong personally. "Hong Kong is one of the cities where Children of the discordance has the most sales outlets, so it’s an important partner.”
He elaborates, "This is a wonderful city with a high sensitivity to different cultures. Street fashion and haute couture coexist harmoniously here.” In the latest collection, he’s utilised vintage fabrics embroidered with patterns of different countries’ currencies. This is a fitting tribute to multicultural Hong Kong.
For Shikama, being YDC’s VIP Judge is also a great way for him to connect with others. "I don't usually get to meet so many young designers, and hope to get in touch with some brands, and understand the stories behind them.”
After seeing the works of YDC contestants for the first time, Shikama says: "Every designer's work is unique, and I’m very surprised to see the completeness of the design sketches and samples. Today’s designers can go into art, costume design and product design. There is even a market for virtual fashion design. As long as you understand yourself, know your strengths, and stay humble and strong, you’ll get recognition.” He added: “It’s not just about fashion, but the qualities a designer should have as a person.”
Article by VOGUE Hong Kong
