Lucien Pellat-Finet, also known as the “King of Cashmere” is known for his modernistic iconic symbols embedded within his luxurious line of cashmere sweaters, accessories, outerwear and swimming gear. From a “devilized” Mickey Mouse to an abundance of marijuana leaves, LPF knows that imagery, especially symbolistic pop culture references, enhance the buying appeal of cashmere. With his recent collaboration with Japanese artist Mr. (Mister), as well as opening his latest retail post in Osaka, Japan, I couldn’t be happier to present my latest one-on-one with the incomparable Lucien Pellat-Finet.

On November 18th, you will be opening your 7th boutique based in Osaka, Japan. What can we expect from your latest retail post?

For me it is big challenge as the shop is located at the best corner spot of the city:think 5th Av & 57th street corner in NY. It is also a building with a small coffee/lounge - the first in LPF universe. It will show perfectly the LPF way of life for men, women, children, ready to wear etc…We are not anymore ONLY a cashmere house ( 40% for cashmere & 60% with RTW + accessories ). We are not a “Fashion for Fashion” company; we only do clothes (that) last more than a season…timeless.

Standing four stories tall, you commissioned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma to execute your latest architectural achievement. What is it about Kuma’s vision that aligns itself with the LFP aesthetic?

I wanted, since my first shop in Tokyo/Omotesando in 2002 to have different feelings with each shop. I really do not like the uniformity of the big brands everywhere in the world. It is so boring to shop globaly  in the same setting with the same products. KK is an architect who is very organic & uses natural materials. I do the same with my collections & use the perfect materials as cashmere top quality, egyptian cotton, organic dyed denim etc…KK already designs the Tokyo/midtown shop in 2007 as you can see on my website. He uses recycled wood to give an effect of the inside of a cocoon.

You recently collaborated with one of Japan’s leading artists, Mr. (Mister). What is it about Mr.’s work that intrigued you? What can we expect from this collaboration?

I am an avid collector & my pleasure is to share my discoveries with my clients as we are a big family. I  have collabored with Takashi Murakami before LVMH when nobody knew him & couldn’t even  pronouce his name. Mr. is a young Japanese artist & I bought one piece 3 years ago. When last year I saw his new exhibition, I feet it was the perfect timing to create some timeless pieces. He shows us the fascination of youth but also the pervisity of our world.

Tell us a little bit about your career path. You have been in the fashion industry quite sometime, but you launched your namesake collection in 1994. How did this experience come about? What was your first collection like?

I was a fashion consultant for many years & got frustrated by not being the one to make decisions. So, in 1994, in the middle of an economic crisis, I had a vision of “less is more” & “quality should be the engine”. Forget runway clothes - nobody wears them unless it is a gift!  My first collection was made of 10 sweaters (men & women) in black, navy, dark grey and Barneys and Mr. Pressman made an order. The first season I sold 400 pieces, the next season 800 pieces & the rest is history.

You are recognized as the “King of Cashmere” on a global scale and recognized for your ultra-luxurious product. How would you define your personal sense of style?

Style is what remains & make you recognize. I stick to my market & truthful clients love it.

Since 1994, you have expanded into menswear, footwear, home decor, various collaborations, and many retail stores. What do you see for the future of LPF?

Keep going until I die. I have never planned anything. I just follow “l’air du temps”.

As an avid street-wear supporter, I am exceptionally interested in your collaboration with Vans. How did this experience unravel?

Vans was a interesting experience but not very satisfying because it is a too much of a conservative & bureaucratic company.

Your garments showcase vivid imagery - from skulls to modernized Mickey Mouse figures to marijuana leaves. What are some of your main inspirations and influences?

I think Fashion is a feeling of our world and my symbols appeal to people on the move; FREE people, people with an edge, people who are out of the mass.

What is your most prized item?

My health…

What are you currently working on? Any future collaborations in the works?

Surprise !!

Where do you see yourself in 15 years? Both personally and professionally?

Ha ha ha…