The newly remodeled Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 1st floor = Seasonal accessories and hats . In addition to the renowned hat brands we have introduced so far, up-and-coming brands will also be featured from time to time.

As part of a series connecting customers and designers, Isetan Men's Net conducted interviews with hat designers over five installments in the fall of 2018.
In this sixth installment of the series, we interview Leonard Plank, the designer of the Italian hat brand Leonard Plank, which is making its debut Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . Enjoy this series that will give you a glimpse into the "passion" of the creator and the joy of wearing a hat.

REINHARD PLANK Hat Collection

□April 10th (Wednesday) - 16th (Tuesday)

□ Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 1st Floor = Seasonal Goods & Hats
Leonard Plank's related products can also be purchased at the Isetan online store.

---First, could you tell us what inspires you to make hats?
It's the "person" themselves. I use my keen senses to perceive every element of a person—their aura, skin, eyes, hair color, style, and so on—and use that as inspiration for my work.
We actively participate in Paris and Shanghai Fashion Weeks four times a year, as well as live performance events mainly in Asia, including Japan, and Europe.
I value opportunities to meet people, and I don't rely on detailed calculations or logic; I prioritize my own intuition and feelings.

---What do you find most enjoyable about hat making?
The ability to express people's emotions—joy, anger, sorrow, and pleasure—in a richer way.
They are quick to notice people's facial expressions and subtle changes in their emotions, and this delicate and meticulous sensitivity is reflected in the details of their products.

---Please tell us about your commitment and passion for manufacturing.
With the product concept of "Imperfect is the perfect," we use techniques that highlight the inherent qualities of high-quality materials, minimizing embellishments and stitching. Furthermore, we value the beauty of the silhouette and the natural feel of the materials.

I don't pay attention to trends; I just make what I want to make at that particular time. I don't stifle free thinking or creativity. I value making things as my true self, and I believe that "creating your own trends" is what a designer should be.

—What kind of customers would you like to see wearing this?
Each hat has a story behind it, and I want them to be worn by someone who will appreciate and enjoy that story. Leonard Plank isn't just making hats; he's creating the stories that unfold when someone wears them.

Next season, we hope you'll enjoy playful designs that use unexpected colors and materials.