By Loïc Prigent
Photograph by Craig McDean
What was your first ever fashion obsession?
As a child, I absolutely hated wearing the same clothes as everyone else. I had my mother alter ready-made garments in all sorts of ways, like turning the sleeves into puff sleeves. Perhaps I was already obsessed with my own ‘designs’ even back then.
I’m moving to Tokyo from Paris, what should I bring?
Honestly, Japan has pretty much everything you need, especially Tokyo. While prices vary, you can easily find great food. Maybe just bring some good French books with you.
What is the Parisian attitude I should leave behind before moving to Tokyo?
I sometimes notice cultural differences in our Paris office, but what I notice the most when I’m in the city is how impatient the drivers are! The streets in Japan are not as crowded, and trains run on time. So rather than leaving any attitude behind, it’s better to prepare yourself for Japanese diligence.
You’re starting a new brand but the name Sacai is already taken, what do you do?
I can’t even imagine. I’d just try to think of a way to get the Sacai name back!
Who is the best dressed person in the world?
Anyone with a confident attitude looks good in everything.
Which film have you seen more than 10 times?
Good Will Hunting.
What did you learn from your mother?
She gave me confidence as a child and taught me that free thinking leads to self-assurance.
Do you work on Sundays?
I normally try to take time off, except when I have to prepare for the collections or during business trips.
What is worse: to arrive late or to stink?
I don’t like to arrive late or for someone to be late unless they have a reason.
Who is the funniest person in the world?
My mother. She is very free-spirited and assertive, but incredibly interesting. I can see where I came from.
Who is the best karaoke singer you know?
We had a karaoke party in our showroom last year, and were all stunned by [art director] Jean-Baptiste Talbourdet-Napoleone’s Elvis Presley.
Who is the one fashion designer you’d spend a year of holidays with?
Karl Lagerfeld. I still remember being deeply moved years ago when I received a very big, beautiful flower and a message from him after the show. I’m very curious about what kind of holiday he spent at his hideaway.
Which historical figure dressed the best?
Coco Chanel.
What is the best thing about Japanese culture?
The beauty of Japanese culture stems from its graceful movements and elegant bearing.
A new law has passed and you can only use one fabric and one colour per season. What do you choose?
White wool. If it’s white, you can colour freely.