Transitioning from Teacher to Designer! The Source Driving the Popular Pants-Only Brand "NEAT" by Daishi Nishino

The pants-only brand NEAT, which was established in the fall/winter of 2015, has quickly gained popularity with its classic and dressy pants. How did "NEAT" come into existence? We spoke with designer Daishi Nishino about his journey from a teaching career to the fashion industry, his PR work, and the founding of the brand. Nishino also shared his insights on his fashion philosophy and the future vision for "NEAT."

Passion for Fashion Igniting During Elementary School Teaching Days in Awaji Island

While serving as the PR Director at the press agent NISHINOYA, which handles various trending domestic and international brands, Nishino skillfully leads the popular brand "NEAT." Though he may appear to be an elite in the fashion field, Nishino has an unconventional background.

After graduating from university, Nishino's first job back in his hometown of Awaji Island was as an elementary school teacher. Nishino reflects on that time:
 
"I initially wanted to become a school teacher, which led me to attend university in Kagawa. After acquiring my teaching license, I returned to Awaji Island and worked as a teacher at an elementary school for two years. I was quite serious during my university days and took as many credits as I could over four years."
 
Despite a stable career in teaching, Nishino moved into the fashion industry. He continues:
 
"An elementary school teacher usually wears a tracksuit every day. I have loved fashion since high school and even worked part-time at a vintage clothing store during my university days. Living with my parents while teaching meant I had financial leeway, so I spent my salary on clothes. Since I could only wear my favorite outfits on weekends, I grew to desire a job where I could wear what I loved every day."
 
From there, Nishino spent days as an elementary school teacher and nights studying at a fashion school. His career change from a seemingly stable public servant position faced opposition from those around him.
 
"My parents opposed it at first. My mother cried (laughs). Initially, I worked as a contract salesperson at Brooks Brothers, so my parents wondered why I wasn't a full-time employee. I persuaded my mother by saying, 'I want to go to Tokyo eventually. If it doesn't work out in three years, I'll return home and resume teaching.' That led me to train at Brooks Brothers' Umeda store in Osaka."