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FASHION FRONTIER LABORATORY 2026 – Visit to Goldwin Tech Lab

FFP Visits Goldwin Tech Lab: FFP2025 Award Recipients Engage in Dialogue for Their Next Creative Endeavors

FASHION FRONTIER PROGRAM (FFP) visited the Goldwin Tech Lab in Toyama Prefecture, the research and development facility of FFP partner Goldwin Inc.

The visit brought together three FFP2025 Award Recipients—Hikari Hayashi, Emily Misaki Hon, and Nao Taki—who reflected on their award-winning works from the previous year and presented the new creative projects they are currently developing. This was followed by discussions with members of Goldwin’s R&D Division, the company’s product development team based in Toyama, where they exchanged technical perspectives and explored ways to further develop their work.

At FFP, receiving an award is not considered the end of the journey, but rather the beginning of a new challenge. Even after the program concludes, FFP continues to create opportunities for creators to develop and expand their practices through ongoing dialogue with companies and experts. This visit was part of that continued support.

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Scenes from the lab tour
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A scene of the character being dressed in the costume

Dialogue Between Creators and Industry, Made Possible by FFP

The visit began with an introduction by FFP founder Yuima Nakazato, who shared an overview of the program, its activities to date, and the FFP2026 program.

Through its approximately six-month incubation program, FFP provides creators with opportunities to deepen their individual practices through ongoing dialogue with experts and companies in Japan and abroad.

Nakazato also introduced FFP’s new base for this year’s program, MoN (Museum of Narratives) in Takanawa, Tokyo, as well as the 16 semifinalists selected for FFP2026, marking the beginning of a new cycle of the program.

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From Award-Winning Works to New Creative Endeavors

During the presentations, the three award recipients reflected on the works they created for FFP2025 and shared the new directions they are currently exploring.

Each creator spoke openly about insights gained through the process of developing their previous work, new questions that have emerged through their subsequent activities, and the forms of expression they hope to pursue next.

Nakazato offered comments on the potential and expression within each project, leading to an active exchange among the creators and members of the Goldwin Tech Lab R&D Division. Together, they explored how each project might be developed further.

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Finalists’ presentations

Technical Discussions with Goldwin Tech Lab

Following the presentations, the award recipients took part in technical discussions with members of the Goldwin Tech Lab R&D Division.

The creators raised questions and shared challenges related to their respective production processes, including material properties, pattern making, sizing, three-dimensional construction, and 3D design.

Drawing on expertise developed through sportswear research and development, the Goldwin Tech Lab team shared ideas and advice from a range of perspectives, including approaches to body measurement and garment design, material development, and manufacturing processes.

Rather than technology being provided in a one-way exchange, the discussions created an opportunity for creators and industry professionals to bring together their respective ideas, technical knowledge, and experience to explore new possibilities. It was a form of dialogue that reflects the collaborative approach at the heart of FFP.

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When Technology Opens New Possibilities for Creation

A visit to Goldwin Tech Lab is not simply an opportunity to observe technology firsthand. Through direct dialogue with engineers and specialists, it also offers creators a chance to reconsider their own practices and encounter new perspectives and possibilities.

Through collaborations with companies such as Goldwin, FFP aims to create an environment in which creators can continue to develop their individual forms of expression beyond the program itself.

Throughout this year’s incubation program, the FFP2026 semifinalists will also engage in dialogue with a diverse range of companies and experts as they deepen their creative practices.

FFP will continue to support each creator’s ongoing challenges and foster a platform where new forms of expression can emerge and contribute to shaping the future of fashion.

What is FASHION FRONTIER LABORATORY?

 

This Lab is open to eight finalists selected through an annual review process, whose participation is voluntary. It serves as a platform to powerfully develop their ideas through continuous learning and practice while engaging in diverse projects.

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Partner Companies: Goldwin Inc., Seiko Epson Corporation, Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co.Ltd., YKK Corporation

 

Endorsement: Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan

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