Since moving to China, I haven’t frequented two large retailers more than MUJI and UNIQLO.   Both these shops provide two qualities from which I never prospered in the USA: Asian sizing and classic aesthetics.  MUJI’s offerings of the minimalist  aesthetic are ever-reflective of Japanese craft and an expert interpretation of American standards.  What UNIQLO produces differently is in their ever-successful collaborations.

UNIQLO partners up with a diverse mix of businesses, artists, and designers alike, creating an ever-impressive catalog of clothing.  My first collab piece was a Jackson Pollack-esque paint splattering of Micky Mouse.  Next came a pair of throwback-trimmed polos by Michael Bastian.  And today, to my complete surprise, was a Hawaiian shirt by a company I’ve never heard of before.  Turns out, ‘IOLANI is Honolulu-based shirtmaker run by the Kawakami family since 1953.  This is the heart of collaboration.

Oh yeah, and I guess the local crowd here aren’t huge fans of tasteful burnt orange, since I nabbed my very first Hawaiian shirt for $6.50.  I guess ever now and then you’re bound for a come-up.