In 1988 Keizo Shimizu started Nepenthes, a Japanese fashion firm, and upon moving to New York in the mid 90s expanded his ideas towards a support brand under the Nepenthes family — Needles. The designers' travels brought him around the world, and Needles offerings reflect those eclectic influences, from bohemian to fishing to 70s Americana. The clothing explores the intersection between Japanese craftsmanship and Western influences, resulting in a meeting of viewpoints and ideas on garments.
In 1988 Keizo Shimizu started Nepenthes, a Japanese fashion firm, and upon moving to New York in the mid 90s expanded his ideas towards a support brand under the Nepenthes family — Needles. The designers' travels brought him around the world, and Needles offerings reflect those eclectic influences, from bohemian to fishing to 70s Americana. The clothing explores the intersection between Japanese craftsmanship and Western influences, resulting in a meeting of viewpoints and ideas on garments.