Origins: Mihara Yasuhiro
How did it begin?
Mihara Yasuhiro was born in 1972 in Fukuoka, Japan. His mother was an abstract painter and inspired his artistic streak. As a student at Tokyo's Tama Art University, Yasuhiro (right) discovered a passion for shoemaking and in 1996 started the Archi Doom label. After graduating in 1997, he launched his own company called Sosu (which is Japanese for 'eternity') and renamed his shoe brand MiharaYasuhiro.
In 2000, Puma asked Yasuhiro to design a collection of trainers, marking the first of many collaborations. Yasuhiro wanted to create a trainer that merged sport and fashion. The first collection, initially intended just for the Japanese market, was so popular that Puma launched it globally in 2001.
With the success of his footwear, Yasuhiro designed his first clothing collection for men and women for the autumn/winter 2002 season.
Today, Yasuhiro has three stores in Japan and his clothing is available at boutiques around the world.
The look
Yasuhiro's style fuses traditional shoemaking techniques with new technology and treatments.
This spring marks the seventh anniversary of his partnership with Puma, and the collection, inspired by the Mayan civilisation, includes a limited edition re-issue of the MY-1 trainer in a printed canvas featuring an abstract stars and stripes pattern with cloud embroidery. His spring/summer 2007 ready-to-wear collection for men features a colour palette of navy, black, grey and white. The women's collection features press-pleated satin skirts paired with tailored shirts, short-sleeve trench coats and satin cocktail mini dresses with faded floral prints or graphic stripes.
Where can I buy it?
Mihara Yasuhiro ready-to-wear is available at D-mop; and Puma by Mihara Yasuhiro at D-mop and J-01 stores. D-mop, On Lan St, Central, tel: 2840 0822. J-01, Paterson St, Causeway Bay, tel: 2808 0501
