Founded by the visionary Japanese designer NIGO, HUMAN MADE has become synonymous with premium craftsmanship, vintage-inspired designs, and a unique blend of American workwear aesthetics. In this blog, we delve into the captivating world of HUMAN MADE, exploring its origins, philosophy, and the cultural impact it has made on the fashion industry.
  
  
  
  
HUMAN MADE emerged onto the fashion scene as a testament to NIGO's passion for blending contemporary fashion with a strong sense of nostalgia. Born Tomoaki Nagao in 1970, NIGO gained international recognition as the creative force behind A Bathing Ape. Building on his success with BAPE, NIGO founded HUMAN MADE in 2010, envisioning a brand that would pay homage to traditional craftsmanship and celebrate the beauty of imperfections.
  

At the heart of HUMAN MADE lies a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. The brand's commitment to producing high-quality garments is evident in every stitch, every seam, and every carefully chosen fabric. Each piece is a testament to the brand's dedication to preserving traditional Japanese techniques while infusing them with a modern sensibility. From meticulously hand-sewn details to artful distressing, HUMAN MADE's creations are a celebration of the imperfections that make every piece unique.

HUMAN MADE's aesthetic is a captivating journey through time, drawing inspiration from vintage Americana and workwear. NIGO's love for bygone eras is evident in every collection, as he effortlessly blends classic silhouettes with contemporary twists. Whether it's a denim jacket adorned with meticulously recreated patches or a perfectly worn-in tee that feels like a cherished heirloom, HUMAN MADE's designs evoke a sense of nostalgia that resonates with fashion enthusiasts and collectors alike.

  

  

  

  

Since its inception, HUMAN MADE has left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, inspiring a new generation of designers and brands to embrace authenticity and storytelling. The brand's collaborations with global icons, including Pharrell Williams and NIGO's own mentor, Hiroshi Fujiwara, have further solidified its position as a cultural powerhouse. Beyond its clothing, HUMAN MADE has expanded its reach to include accessories, footwear, and lifestyle products, all infused with the same dedication to quality and design. Human Made introduces apparel such as t-shirts, hoodies, varsity jackets, accessories, and more, in addition to homeware, all of which spotlight the brand’s signature heart logo and other motifs. Each Human Made collection evokes heritage-driven aesthetics, accurately representing the best of mid-century Americana.

  

  

  

  

UMAN MADE's influence extends far beyond the borders of Japan. With flagship stores in Tokyo and Kyoto, as well as a strong online presence, the brand has cultivated a global community of enthusiasts who appreciate its unique approach to fashion. Collectors and fashion aficionados eagerly await each new collection, eager to add a piece of HUMAN MADE's timeless allure to their wardrobes. Human Made is an understated brand that has collaborated with brands like Adidas and Girl’s Don’t Cry. From the playful to the fashionable, Human Made puts its twist on workwear-inspired apparel, accessories, and homeware that still takes on a minimal aesthetic.

  

  

  

  

In a world where trends come and go, HUMAN MADE Japan stands as a testament to the enduring power of authenticity, craftsmanship, and nostalgia. NIGO's creative vision has given rise to a brand that not only produces exceptional clothing and lifestyle goods but also fosters a sense of connection to the past. With its dedication to preserving traditional techniques and celebrating imperfections, HUMAN MADE continues to shape the fashion landscape, reminding us of the beauty that can be found in both the old and the new.

 

You can shop everything HUMAN MADE here at Story.

Levi Niekerk