THE high-powered activities of spring and summer, signaling delight and freedom, are highlighted in the 2019 Spring/Summer collection of Japanese brand Uniqlo.
Highlights include the 11th collaboration of the brand with timeless beauty Ines de La Fressange, a famous face from the 1970s and beyond, who also happens to be an aristocrat (her father is descended from a marquis), and since 1998, has belonged to the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame. With this collaboration, Uniqlo shoppers can channel her glamorous childhood in Saint-Tropez, the resort town of the rich and famous in France. Palettes are expressed in indigo and caramel, and soft lines and light fabrics like chambray are used to heighten the resort feel.
Meanwhile, Uniqlo’s third collaboration with British fashion brand JW Anderson was also highlighted during a presentation at Uniqlo’s Philippine flagship store in Glorietta last week. This collection highlights nautical themes and Anglophilia, showing striped patterns and jackets that will come in handy during a yacht party.
The relationship of the two collections reflect the proximity of the two cultures and nations separated by the English Channel, showing a cosmopolitan feel. “We are continuously working with iconic designers because we want to bring something special to our customers,” said Camille Pacis, senior marketing and PR manager for Uniqlo Philippines.
As for utility, Uniqlo has revamped its AIRism line with new technologies, namely, a micro-polyester fiber for the men’s line that helps dry the skin from perspiration, while a women’s line uses a fabric called Cupra, designed to adjust to different temperatures. The women’s line also includes long-sleeved tops with UV protection, the better to enjoy your days under the sun.
Speaking of enjoying, Uniqlo also released a new line of wireless bras designed to be light, with cups acting like memory foam to mold more easily on busts.
As well, Uniqlo highlighted its sustainability and corporate social responsibility efforts. Ms. Pacis told BusinessWorld that the company has opened a school building with two classrooms in Albay, currently used by about 100 kindergarteners. Chloe Cruz, sustainability and PR manager for Uniqlo, meanwhile, said that they continue to collect clothes in bins located in Uniqlo stores nationwide. The donations are forwarded to the needy in areas such as Iloilo, Marawi, and Tacloban, with Ms. Cruz recalling that last December, they donated about 1,000 pieces of clothing to the needy in Cebu. — Joseph L. Garcia
