Dazed Digital: London BAPE STORE Interview with NIGO

With a high-profile BAPE STORE London opening just days ago, Dazed Digital conducted a short interview with A Bathing Ape founder NIGO regarding a series of noteworthy topics. Dazed Digital get the low-down on WTAPS’ Tetsuya Nishiyima’s involvment in the URSUS BAPE collection as well as some upcoming projects set for next year.

How about the new URSUS BAPE line, the collaboration with Tetsu Nishiyama of WTAPS?
We stock it here. I’m pleased that everybody knows who Tets is! Tets is one of the few people left from the guys that started at the beginning. A lot of people have faded out of the scene, but with Tets we still talk every day.

Is the longevity of BAPE and Tets due to maintaining the original design ethos of the label, with WTAPS it’s the military-inspired designs?
I agree. We don’t follow trends. It always starts with the idea – let’s make something we want to make.

Are there new Japanese designers that you’re inspired by?
Not really. I’m a little bit worried that there aren’t that many new names coming up.

I remember rumors of a BAPE hotel and even BAPE airline…
(Laughs) I’m still thinking about it….

What’s next for BAPE?
There’s a Chrome Hearts (LA-based lifestyle and jewellery label) collaboration coming. I’ll probably opening more stores in Asia next year, and I’m doing a suit line that I’ve been working on for the past year that will be available at United Arrows store in Japan called Mr. A Bathing Ape.