2025.11.27

A Nod to the DC Brand Boom! "1978 MEN'S MELROSE"—The Keyword Is 'Late 80s–Early 90s'

#DC Brand

#1978 MEN'S MELROSE

#Men's Melrose

#Trad Style

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*The text-to-speech feature is generated by AI,
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Back in the 1980s, Japan was swept up in the massive "DC brand" boom. Even if you weren't around then, chances are you've heard the term. The "D" in "DC brand" stands for "Designers," and the "C" for "Characters." Brands named directly after their creators were dubbed "Designers" brands, while those with a distinct, separate identity were called "Characters" brands.

This DC brand boom was a monumental event in the history of Japanese fashion. The 1980s were also the very era when Japanese designers began making waves at Paris Collection (Fashion Week).

The brand we're featuring today, "1978 MEN'S MELROSE," masterfully channels the vibe of that era while blending it seamlessly with contemporary design.

We sat down with designer Makoto Matsushima to discuss the debut Autumn/Winter 2025 collection, tracing the history of "MEN'S MELROSE"—a brand born in 1978 and a key player at the heart of the DC brand boom.