Long-term collaborations can sometimes lose their spark. But for Derry-born designer Jonathan Anderson, whose partnership with Japanese outfitter Uniqlo has now stretched over six years, that couldn't be further from the truth.
“The meeting of the two [JW Anderson and Uniqlo] always inspires creativity,” he tells Esquire over email. “Each season, we build upon the last, so we’ve created a Uniqlo and JW Anderson wardrobe. The audience for Uniqlo is broader and more global, which means we've had to rethink our approach so we can create something that’s both JW Anderson but also works with the LifeWear concept.”
This season sees the British designer expand on the collegiate wardrobe that the two brands have formed over the years, offering squirrel-embroidered knits, classic Oxford shirts and colour-print socks. But for Anderson, it’s the outerwear that’s caught his heart.
“One of my favourite items is the oversized trench. It comes in a more traditional check, so we wanted to modernise it with a slightly oversized fit. It’s perfect to wear over a cosy knit or a tailored shirt as a transitional piece. There’s also the wool blend duffle coat with the toggles, which is a classic piece but with a more unexpected shape.”
Find our favourite pieces (including Anderson’s) in our edit below.
Uniqlo x JW Anderson Flannel Checked Regular Fit Shirt
Uniqlo x JW Anderson Tote Bag
Uniqlo x JW Anderson Wide Leg Chino Trousers
Uniqlo x JW Anderson Trench Coat
Uniqlo x JW Anderson Heattech Anti-Odour Socks
Uniqlo x JW Anderson Wool Blend Tailored Jacket
