While the 70s and 80s ignited a renaissance for expression and freedom in fashion, music and popular culture, this era marked a fluctuating chapter for David Bowie. His 1972 album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust ultimately lived up to its name, and it wasn’t until after its release in the 1980s when Bowie found himself questioning his life-long work, turning elsewhere for inspiration.
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Throughout his career, Bowie held a profound fascination for Japan, and the country loved him back. It was classic Kabuki performance that originally influenced his iconic lightning bolt face paint, and the Japanese designer Kansai Yamamoto who created some of his most notable looks including his swirling black and white costume, notably shot in front of a vivid red backdrop. Japan always held a prominent place in his heart, with his 1980 album Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) eventually etching his admiration on the country in return.
David Bowie and Kansai Yamamoto, 1973
“I’m under Japanese influence...”
David Bowie, Blackout
Originally intended to close the album, Bowie’s haunting yet beautiful instrumental ‘Crystal Japan’ was subbed from the record and later released as a single exclusively in Japan. Featuring a heavy synthesiser base, it was provided as the advertising campaign soundtrack for the sake brand, Crystal Jun Rock, and featured a polished Bowie across the vinyl sleeve, promotional inserts, posters and TV commercial. His love for the country became apparent, incorporating his fascination with the beautiful Karesansui Zen Garden into the campaign narrative. This chapter not only marked a pivotal moment in his music career, but highlighted Bowie’s appreciation for Japan, almost like a thank you letter to the country that inspired his music, fashion and alter ego.
The Knightsbridge Green Collection
They say not all who wander are lost, and David Bowie embodied that with brilliance. Much like Cutler and Gross, the late icon was shaped by London but transformed by Japan. His travels bridged the two worlds, becoming a catalyst for cultural alchemy of boldly British designs, through the lens of Japanese precision.
The Knightsbridge Green collection draws its name from our flagship store at 16 Knightsbridge Green, London, opened in 1971 and still a beacon of craftsmanship today. Each style pays tribute to a notable avenue of the city, marrying London’s architectural gravitas with the disciplined artistry of Japanese design.
Each sunglass and optical is meticulously made to celebrate the natural characteristics of titanium: strength, precision and artistry.
Shop The Collection
David Bowie, Crystal Japan (1980)
While the 70s and 80s ignited a renaissance for expression and freedom in fashion, music and popular culture, this era marked a fluctuating chapter for David Bowie. His 1972 album The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust ultimately lived up to its name, and it wasn’t until after its release in the 1980s when Bowie found himself questioning his life-long work, turning elsewhere for inspiration.
David Bowie and Kansai Yamamoto, 1973
Originally intended to close the album, Bowie’s haunting yet beautiful instrumental ‘Crystal Japan’ was subbed from the record and later released as a single exclusively in Japan. Featuring a heavy synthesiser base, it was provided as the advertising campaign soundtrack for the sake brand, Crystal Jun Rock, and featured a polished Bowie across the vinyl sleeve, promotional inserts, posters and TV commercial. His love for the country became apparent, incorporating his fascination with the beautiful Karesansui Zen Garden into the campaign narrative. This chapter not only marked a pivotal moment in his music career, but highlighted Bowie’s appreciation for Japan, almost like a thank you letter to the country that inspired his music, fashion and alter ego.
The Knightsbridge Green Collection
They say not all who wander are lost, and David Bowie embodied that with brilliance. Much like Cutler and Gross, the late icon was shaped by London but transformed by Japan. His travels bridged the two worlds, becoming a catalyst for cultural alchemy of boldly British designs, through the lens of Japanese precision.
The Knightsbridge Green collection draws its name from our flagship store at 16 Knightsbridge Green, London, opened in 1971 and still a beacon of craftsmanship today. Each style pays tribute to a notable avenue of the city, marrying London’s architectural gravitas with the disciplined artistry of Japanese design.
Each sunglass and optical is meticulously made to celebrate the natural characteristics of titanium: strength, precision and artistry.
Shop The Collection