Hiroshi Tsubouchi, the designer of the shoe brand HIROSHI TSUBOUCHI, is affectionately called "Tsubo-san" by fashion industry professionals and the men's shoe department at Isetan Men's. He visits Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building "once or twice a week," and during the interview, he was exchanging smiles with stylists on each floor!

I'm a bit of a contrarian, so it's more interesting if I have a quirky side.

After strolling around the men's shoes section on the first basement floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , I headed to the socks section on the same floor. "I buy almost all my socks at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building ," says Tsubouchi, laughing. "They have everything from long socks for suits to dress socks and casual types like rasox, so I always end up buying something when I stop by."


When I wake up in the morning, I decide on my outfit for the day based on things like, "I want to wear these shoes," or "I'm meeting this person," or "These clothes are comfortable (laughs)." Today I'm wearing a suit from jipijapa, and the designer, Mr. Kaga, also likes unusual combinations, so I'm fine with mixing and matching patterns as long as it suits my mood at the time.

Another important element is the accent. Today I'm wearing a knit tie, but I also love scarves and other wraps. Having just one accent piece can create an elegant atmosphere. For me, being elegant is important. No matter how casual my style is, a little accent or gesture can make it elegant.

I'm a bit of a contrarian, so I find things that are different from the norm, things with a bit of a twist, more interesting. I love wearing suits and ties, and I have my own standards for dressing formally, but I can't quite bring myself to go for the "classic" look. On the contrary, if the world goes for some weird style, I might just go for the "orthodox style"—that's how contrarian I am (laughs).

Next, let's head to the first floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building Tsubouchi-san has a wide selection of clothing and accessories that she loves...