Nigo and Human Made: Vintage Americana Through Japanese Eyes
Few people have shaped global streetwear as much as Nigo. A designer, DJ and collector from Japan, he helped build the Ura-Harajuku scene of the 1990s and then, with Human Made, created a label devoted to the vintage clothing and graphic design he loves. His pieces are collected worldwide, and Japan remains the best place to find them.
Ura-Harajuku
In the early 1990s, the back streets of Harajuku filled with small shops selling limited runs of clothing, often designed by friends and sold only in Tokyo. Scarcity, queues and word of mouth created a new model of fashion. Nigo founded A Bathing Ape in 1993 in this world, and its camouflage and graphics became internationally famous over the following decade.
Human Made
Nigo launched Human Made in 2010. Its inspiration is vintage Americana: workwear, college sportswear, military pieces, old advertising and hand-drawn graphics, remade with Japanese attention to fabric and finish. A heart motif and playful slogans run through the line, alongside animals, especially ducks, and retro lettering. Beyond clothing, Human Made produces homewares, accessories and objects that reflect Nigo's collecting interests.
Collaborations
Human Made has worked with many brands and artists, and collaboration pieces are among the most sought after. Limited releases sold in Tokyo shops, special colourways and items connected with Nigo's wider projects tend to hold their value best.
Buying with confidence
- Labels and tags. Check neck labels, care tags and hang tags against known examples from the same season.
- Fabric and print. Genuine pieces use heavy, well-finished fabrics and crisp, well-registered prints.
- Packaging. Original bags and packaging add appeal, particularly for accessories and homewares.
- Sizing. Japanese sizing can run smaller than Western sizing. Compare measurements with a garment you own.
Condition
Unworn pieces with tags command the highest prices, but well-kept worn pieces are a good way into the brand. Check for fading, cracking in prints, stains at collars and cuffs, and pilling. Wash printed pieces inside out in cool water and dry them flat.