Born and raised in Canada from Filipino descent, I tread between the lines of two cultures, and pull from the melting pot of others within my environment. Being temporarily lost in this gray area of identity pushes me further to new heights, as I explore self identity and personal style within fashion. My love for Japanese culture has budded and lead me down a career path i fully enjoy; taking me from nowhere, to success that has brought me full circle. Back to nowhere.
It has become apparent to me, that the more i explore different facets and cultures, the more i solidify my love for Japanese fashion as a whole, the mantra of taking something, making it better, and original is something i live by. Being largely influenced by playful originality, silhouettes, and high quality construction, I’ve gained an interest and look up to all these streetwear brands, and designers Japan has to offer. I tend to stray away from the hype encompassing trends, but like to pay homage to the people that founded the industry i love today; on April 1, 1993 the small Japanese storefront NOWHERE by Nigo & Jun Takahashi was born.
Taking inspiration from culture they weren’t directly apart of, spawned an eclectic “Hidden Harajuku” oasis, where hip hop, bohemian, and punk styles influenced by The Beatles and culture from the west, could amalgamate into something of its own. Nigo & Jun Takahashi had no idea what sort of seeds they were planting, as their future lead to the heavyweight brands by the names of Undercover and A Bathing Ape. Their ability to fill a void with sheer originality radiates from whatever they get their hands on, and has traveled more than twice the world over.
Their seeds planted within the hearts of street culture and fashion enthusiasts have flourished, connecting them to a community that means no bounds. The ability they have to bridge eastern and western influences is uncalled for, so forth the inspirations and aspirations they have brought to me.
Drowning in unknown identity, and anxiety of my life going nowhere, Jun Takahashi and Nigo have taught me to explore and build from ideas and influences i enjoy- from the ground up. Being inspired by them, i want to reach even a marginal height to what they have accomplished within their lifetimes, all starting from their 1993 Japanese storefront. In actuality I was worrying about nothing, and that i was always on the right path, this post marks the day where I will continue to strive in getting to NOWHERE.