It's a bittersweet finale for the famed Japanese fashion brand Mastermind, as it officially ends its 15-year run with the release of its 2013 spring/summer — and final — collection.
Recognizable a mile away with its skull-and-cross-bones motif, Mastermind had defined itself as a modern luxury brand for the punkish, street-style set. True "luxury" brands born in Japan are few and far between, but Mastermind was the epitome, with its locally produced clothing created using couture-level techniques, and with price tags that matched. This rock 'n'roll irony caught the eye of Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld, who put the brand on the map when he started singing its praises and making it part of his daily uniform.
The mind and the master behind it all is Masaaki Homma, who named this final collection "Dreaming," a reference to his feelings of gratitude and euphoria for all that his brand has achieved. Being hugely popular in both Asia and Europe, it is customary for brands like Mastermind to have industry exhibitions in Paris or New York. However, for the past few years Homma has insisted on staying in Japan, forcing his clients to visit the country, and encouraging them to see other Japanese brands during their trips.
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