Akira Naka

Akira Naka is a Japanese fashion designer and founder of the label of the same name. His work, largely focused on knitwear in his early career has taken a turn toward tailored work that includes a variety of dresses, fabric inserts, and a great deal of European Influence.

History

Akira Naka spent a good deal of time in the United States at a young age where he met and worked with a tailor that turned him on to the world of fashion design. He later attended the Royal College of Fine Art Antwerp and was later selected to be part of the Hyeres International Mode Festival. He studied under a top knit designer in Antwerp and finally returned home to Japan in 2006. The next year, he launched his first line under the name POESIE and then changed the name one year later to AKIRA NAKA.

Style

Akira Naka’s clothing is best known for its deep European influences, largely gathered while studying and working Antwerp. His clothing combines a number of sharply tailored corners and cuts with a great deal of texture and detail in things like high waist skirts and trousers, rubbered tops, and simplified dress clothing restructured for casual wear.

Where to Buy

Currently, Akira Naka does not yet have a flagship store open though he is expected to open one in early 2009. Clothing from his ready to wear collections is available in many top department stores in Tokyo.

External Links

• Shots from Fashion Week 2008