BAPY BY A BATHING APE®︎ is a women’s clothing line by A BATHING APE®︎, the internationally popular Japanese fashion brand that has collaborated with some of the most famous brands and music artists around the world.

The company launched their secondary brand BAPY®︎ in 2001. In October this year, the brand’s name re-launched under the new name “BAPY BY A BATHING APE®︎.”

As part of the rebranding process, the company opened up their new BAPY® flagship store in Harajuku which is decked out in the brand’s iconic coral pink colour. The store’s opening reception party was held on November 14 which saw appearances from Japanese actress Mariya Nishiuchi amongst a whole list of models and influencers. Among them as a special guest was Dara, former member of South Korean girl group 2NE1.

Dara is a busy fashionista who has enjoyed invitations to countless shows hosted by top brands across the globe. She was donning clothes from BAPY BY A BATHING APE®︎ at the reception party but still stood out from the crowd as she showed her support for the brand’s relaunch.

MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON had the chance to interview Dara and ask her about women’s fashion, her favourite spots in Japan and more.

―Welcome to Japan! How long has it been since you were last in Tokyo, and where are you thinking of visiting next?

I was last in Tokyo in March of this year, so it’s really been a while. It’s a place I visit a lot for fun so I wanted to come back again soon. It’s been four years since I last came to Japan for something work-related. There’s lots of shops I want to go to. Japan has my favourite curry and ramen restaurants. I want to shop at places like Don Quijote too.

―Are there any places in Japan you would recommend to the people of South Korea or your fans around the world? If so, what’s your reasoning?

Japan has way too many really delicious restaurants, I’m always stuck deciding what to eat. My acquaintances work in the fashion industry so they’ve shown me some little-known shops. Especially in places like Harajuku and Omotesando. There’s shops we often go to there to buy clothes. They have everything – brands, streets, vintage stores, you name it, so I recommend it to people.

―Street fashion is seeing another boom amongst girls in Japan. You regularly don street fashion. Please tell us some tips on how to look stylish with BAPY.

When I visit Japan I get the impression that Japanese women really enjoy fashion and have fun with it in many ways. I’m mainly into and wear street fashion. BAPY too has all sorts of different items, like casual trainers, hoodies, coats, jackets. I personally like to wear colourful trainers and a hoodie and then add to that a coat that matches the season. And if you’re going for heels or boots you can bring out both a street vibe and sexy feminine look. That’s why it’s my favourite style. “Mix-and-match” is the thing to take away from it.

―Your outfit today is cute too! Please tell us your tips on coordinating an outfit.

With this look I’ve gone for a more girly, chic style than street. I put on a beret to bring out the cuteness. I also really love the grey checkered skirt, jacket and long boots too. I think the style comes together well.

―Please leave a message for your fans around the world.

This BAPY event was my first work in Japan in four years. The people I met at the event (models, the people involved etc.) kindly showed their love and support for myself and 2NE1 as they always do. It really surprised me but it made me really happy. I think the fans feel the same too. I will continue to work harder. I want to look cool doing all kinds of different things. I’m forever grateful to everyone and want them all to feel happiness! See you again ^^

Enjoy BAPY BY A BATHING APE®︎’s new line-up as well as the street fashion tips kindly provided by Dara herself!

Credit

Source: moshi moshi japan

Re-Uploaded By: OhDara