Brand Introduction: Licht Bestreben
Licht Bestreben 10th Anniversary｜10 Years of Making Clothes I Want to Wear
Licht Bestreben is a Japanese fashion brand by designer Kodai Kato.
It has been 10 years since the brand was established. Upholding the philosophy of "pursuing real clothes based on thorough subjectivity unfettered by conventional ideas," the brand has consistently created clothing that reflects its designer's experiences and values.
Real yet sharp. Its unique designs, which blend street and high fashion, continue to captivate many fans.
In this article, we will interview the designer about everything from the brand's origins to the values it has cherished for 10 years and its future prospects. Through the brand's charm and journey, we will delve into the essence of its clothing creation.
The origins of clothes making
― What motivated you to start making clothes?
My grandmother was a sewing factory manager and pattern maker, which was a huge influence.
Even after she retired, there was an atelier at my family home, and I made clothes while she taught me.
However, I didn't want to start a brand from the beginning; I just wanted to make clothes that I wanted to wear.
Awareness as a designer
― Were you good at making clothes from the start?
No, it was quite the opposite (laughs).
I wanted to finish quickly, so I skipped the detailed steps that weren't visible from the outside.
My grandmother often told me, "You don't have the temperament for sewing."
But she did praise the designs of the finished clothes.
Looking back, she might have been subtly encouraging me to become a designer.
― When did you start thinking about creating a brand?
It was when my seniors and colleagues at my part-time job told me they wanted the clothes I made.
I even sold them on online auctions at one point.
Of course, hardly anything sold back then.
But gradually, I think the image of "this is the kind of work I want to do" began to form.
Initial setbacks in launching the brand
― How was it when you first launched the brand?
I had a goal to launch my own brand in Tokyo by the age of 30 and was preparing for it.
I thought a lot of buyers would come to my first exhibition.
But only one group actually visited.
At that moment, I keenly felt my lack of experience with famous brands, studying abroad, or any glamorous career history.
It was a pretty big setback.
Continuing to make clothes I want to wear
― What did you think after that?
I couldn't suddenly acquire qualifications.
So what would I compete with?
That's when I reconsidered my origins.
From the beginning, I had only made clothes that I wanted to wear.
My seniors and colleagues saw them and wanted them.
Even after I became a manager of an original brand in the professional world, I only made clothes I wanted to wear.
But ultimately, that resonated with customers.
So I thought,
I will put effort into selling the brand.
But the most important thing is to continue making clothes that I want to wear.
I decided to continue conveying this in my own words and cherish those who empathize with it.
The meaning behind the name Licht Bestreben
― What meaning is embedded in the brand name?
I think the glamour of shows and contests is wonderful.
But I want to value closer connections with people.
It's fine if the number of fans grows little by little.
I believe that way I can continue in my own style for a long time.
To be as real as possible.
To be as true to myself as possible.
The name Licht Bestreben embodies these feelings.
Then, as now, the clothes I make are inspired by my experiences, feelings, and what I have seen.
Reaching 10 years
― It's been 10 years since the brand was established. Please tell us about your future plans.
Over the past 10 years, there were times when I almost wavered.
Each time, I returned to my roots, re-evaluated what I should be doing, and continued.
I don't think that will change in the future.
Recently, I've also become interested in nurturing young talent and am working on passing on the skills and experience I've cultivated.
And above all, I want to gradually repay the kindness of those who have supported me so far.
My family.
Everyone at the factory.
Everyone in the production areas.
Everyone at the retailers.
The photography staff and all involved parties.
And customers who love Licht Bestreben.
Thankfully, even after 10 years, the faces of those around me have hardly changed.
I am truly grateful.
It may sound idealistic, but I hope to gradually return that favor.
From the owner
Itoyashiro has been stocking Licht Bestreben since it opened.
After hearing Mr. Kato's story again, I realized that not only the visible designs and pattern work but also the underlying philosophy and personality are important charms that shape this brand.
Licht Bestreben is the story woven by Kodai Kato and the many people involved.
I hope you enjoy the clothes along with the sentiments behind them.
Click here for Licht Bestreben products