Photo by Camelia Manea
Japanese fashion brand Onitsuka Tiger has partnered with fashion consultant Nick Wooster and have just opened THE ONITSUKA store in Soho at 127 Greene Street, its first flagship store in the US.
THE ONITSUKA is a luxury line from Onitsuka Tiger with a focus to create timeless, quality pieces. The line brings hybrid design to the shoes, with characteristics of dress shoes and sneakers, mainly composed of Kobe leather known for its premium quality. The soles are made to be comfortable, with stylish shark style outer soles.
_Flaunt_ got an opportunity to talk with Nick Wooster about his partnership with Onitsuka Tiger. Check out what he had to say below!
Photo by Camelia Manea
**How were you first introduced to Onitsuka Tiger?**
Although I was aware of Onitsuka Tiger since the 1970s, it wasn't until I started to spend time in Japan, that I understood how important the brand is to Japanese style. As sneakers have become so important to the story of menswear, my knowledge and curiosity about Onitsuka Tiger has only increased. I am attracted to brands that have a strong heritage and a strong signature.
**What has been the most exciting part of working with THE ONITSUKA**
I love that it is capturing another aspect of fashion that is moving to something more timeless and less casual. It is the right moment to consider options that build on the technology and comfort of sneakers and streetwear, but the approach is more luxury and collection oriented. The elevated use of materials is what makes THE ONITSUKA stand out.
**How does THE ONITSUKA capture the essence of modern luxury fashion?**
THE ONITSUKA collection is 'the new luxury' defined by practical enjoyment over extravagant opulence. It seamlessly combines timeless designs with Japanese craftsmanship, and every detail has been meticulously engineered for both form and function.
Photo by Camelia Manea
**What stands out to you about THE ONITSUKA line?**
I love the 360 degree approach—there are great footwear items, tailored outerwear and clean/modern accessories executed in unexpected and luxurious materials. The shoes are made for city life—walking the streets stylishly, while also in great comfort. This is a difficult thing to do well, but the meticulous approach is what makes The Onitsuka special.
**How does the new flagship store in Soho represent THE ONITSUKA as a brand?**
The brand's narrative is to bring pleasure into people's lives—a pleasure is not something that is only seen but sensed in the thoughtful details and how a person feels wearing it. SoHo is known to be one of the stylish and sophisticated neighborhoods in NYC that is full of charm and it gives you that similar 'sense of pleasure' when you are walking through the streets.
Photo by Camelia Manea
