Interview with Yusuke Oshiba (Part 2)

We hear from Oshiba Yusuke, who has been closely involved in fashion and culture, about his unique " eyewear theory. " This is the second part.

OWN (hereinafter O): By the way, what did you think of OWN 's first collection, for which you modeled?

Yusuke Oshiba (hereafter, Y): I was actually surprised. They went for a classic route right from their first collection. I think that in this day and age, many people who start a brand with glasses or sunglasses would go for eccentric shapes. But OWN is classic and standard. They've added materials and colors to that, which I think is really great. I think other brands are a bit intimidated by that. It's easier to stand out by offering items with a bold shape than by going for a standard shape. Rather than appealing to people who like unusual things, OWN 's glasses are particular about the shade of blue, and the acetate shape is delicate. Their use of metal parts is also great. I could feel OWN 's love for glasses in using a very classic shape for their first launch. The pair I tried on were sample stage, so I'm looking forward to seeing the final product.

OThat was the best compliment I've ever received (laughs).

Even with Y , it's a standard, classic design, so when I'm doing model shoots like today, which are created by the brand, I feel like I'm being tested on my inner self. It's like they're asking me, "What position do glasses hold for you?" (laughs). Because of my job as a model, I've worn a lot of glasses from other eyewear brands, but I feel like OWN has that kind of appeal and power. I felt that since they chose me as their model and not just some random playboy, I had to do work that would answer that question.

By the way, are there any glasses that you have worn or seen that have left an impression on you?

These are glasses that Y NUMBER (N)INE released a long time ago, in collaboration with the long-established Taihachiro Kinsei, and I think they are a masterpiece. They are truly Showa-era glasses, with no curved frames and made of celluloid instead of acetate. Due to the properties of celluloid, the side frames gradually become more flexible with human oils. They are heavy and bulky, but I still treasure them.

I 'm curious, so please show it to me next time!

Y OK . Also, Jamaican dancehall reggae artist Frankie Paul looks cool in glasses. I also like the glasses of Buddy Holly and other people from the 60s and 70s , as they really show their personality.

Everyone looks unique with their glasses on.

Y : Yes, everyone has heavy-looking frames that leave marks on their noses (laughs). I guess my preference for those kinds of things hasn't changed. But it's not simply nostalgia; I honestly think it's amazing how materials and specs are constantly being upgraded. I want to be flexible and tolerant in that regard. Even if I find a pair of glasses from the 1940s that I really like and that will break after a few wears, I'd rather find a current model in the same style. I'm sure I'll love clothes for a long time to come, and I think that flexibility is important to continue loving them for a lifetime. I also want to choose clothes and accessories that suit my lifestyle. I like vintage denim, but because I skateboard, I don't want to wear things that will rip or break easily. Clothes and equipment are important, but I also think it's important to understand that they have a fleeting aspect.

OThat 's very convincing.

That's why I haven't bought a 501 from Yayoi in Ameyoko since I was in the first year of junior high school. In the old days, Yayoi had an atmosphere where you couldn't leave until you bought it, and it was common for them to not sell you if the size wasn't right. So I can't wear oversized shoes! (laughs)

That store clerk is still working there, but he's become a nicer person (laughs).

I 've become more rounded (laughs). Anyway, going back to the topic at hand, I've loved clothes since I was a child, and in order to maintain the belief that what I think is cool is the coolest thing in the universe, flexibility is important. I understand the opinions and opinions of others, but I still say, "This is my style!"

In Oshiba 's case, I feel that this sensibility is reflected not only in his clothes and accessories, but also in his other activities.

Y: Perhaps that's actually true. When you put it that way, it's true about the music I make with my band and the art I create. I want to be confident in the things I think are good, otherwise I feel like I'll waver and it won't work.

So , is eyewear an essential part of your life?

I guess I wouldn't say it's something I need 365 days a year like Y underwear. But when I think about a complete outfit, I've always had the image of putting on a hat and then glasses or sunglasses. Also, when I put on my favorite eyewear, I feel really energized. If I were to compare it to boots, it would be like Dr. Martens . It's probably similar to the feeling you get when you put on a pair of 8- or 10- eye Dr. Martens boots with the laces tight. It really tightens your mind.

OThe feeling you get when you have or don't have such items in fashion is completely different.

Y: Even if I was told not to wear a dress shirt in the future, I would think, "Well, it's probably okay," but if I was told not to wear glasses at all, I might say, "Wait a minute!" (laughs) That's what eyewear means to me.

The first part of the interview is here

This interview is featured in the OWN 1st Collection LOOK BOOK, which is currently on sale. It is said that print media is on the decline, but I believe that there is still a charm that only paper can offer. The LOOK BOOK also includes a Mix CD by Oshiba and OWN , as well as columns by specially selected authors, so I hope you will pick up the actual copy.

By OWN

OWN LOOK BOOK HERE