Fashion ran through Masaaki Homma’s blood, and he was determined to make it big within the industry; with his persistence, we were given silhouettes and artistry that will forever be ingrained within fashion’s history. As Homma worked alongside Yohji Yamamoto, founder of Y-3, he was able to develop a background in designing which pushed him to start his own label. So in 1997, the world was introduced to Mastermind, a clothing line that utilizes his personal experiences and style preferences. Mastermind utilized a dark and minimalistic aesthetic that took inspiration from punk and goth culture. The grunge designs were different from the array of clothing that was produced within the time but being different doesn’t necessarily mean successful. Within the year 2000, Homma had to close down his brick and mortar and was on the brink of giving up. Upon hearing skepticism from the market and similar brands, Homma was ignited from within and was driven to produce his most iconic motif used to this day: the skull and bones logo. 

When Homma introduced the skull and bones design, he decided to utilize higher quality fabrications so the emblem will be highlighted even more. Because of this executive change, Mastermind was able to secure its first sale from Maxfield. As soon as Mastermind hit Maxfield’s store it sold out instantly as people were drawn to its new design and qualities. High-profile artists including Justin Timberlake, ASAP Rocky, and Tyga became instant fans of the brand and wore the bone and skull motif proudly. Since then, the brand has developed a cult following eager to acquire the next installation from Mastermind. 

Now that the brand started to get recognized, Homma wanted to revert to his roots in Japan and focus on his craft and his initial target. He realized that there was an opportunity within Japan’s fashion market as there weren’t a lot of luxury brands. As he recognized this, he sought out to become the highest quality Japanese manufacturer. Homma utilized his well-established designs and incorporated them with premium fabrication and textiles for an elite experience within his clothing lines. Overtime, Mastermind has collaborated with a handful of designers and brands. Just to name some, the list includes Goyard, A Bathing Ape, Nigo, Yamaha, Playboy, and Visvim. By 2011, it was clear that Mastermind had a distinct place within the fashion community and an undying following that would forever support the eccentric collections. 

But in 2013, Homma decided to close down Mastermind Japan as he believed that the world of fashion has changed and his line didn’t have the same meaning as it initially had when it first started. In order to keep up with the times, Homma decided to rebrand and incorporate Mastermind World into the mix of creations. Mastermind World sees familiar stylings and designs as his original label but isn’t necessarily driven for Japan’s market and is now tailored for the whole world. Since its inception, the brand performed really well as many were anticipating his new releases and overtime Homma revived Mastermind Japan. Now, both labels fall under the Mastermind Tokyo umbrella and have produced new collections and designs staying true to the fashion label’s core style. 

Both Japan and World are delivering their latest collections just in time for the spring and summertime. Titled as ‘Romantic’ the SS21 collection from Mastermind Japan sees an urban and punk aesthetic while ‘Rhapsody’ from Mastermind World plays with a darkened and eccentric theme. We are introduced to quality garments as Homma utilizes top-shelf fabrication within each design and accessory. 

Within ‘Romantic’ Mastermind introduces the Silk Shirt in Tropical Black. Reminiscent of Hawaiian button-ups, the shirt is embodied with the signature bone and skull pattern. The shirt is constructed with high-quality silk for a luxe complexion while also providing comfort and breathability during times of wear. Coinciding with the Silk Shirt, the 2 Color Velour T-Shirt makes its introduction as a blend of cotton and polyester build its base. The duo fabrication provides a soft-to-the-touch experience that is also breathable. The textured experience is different and provides a dimensional effect when worn in an outfit. Besides clothing, the collection also introduces the Skateboard Deck. This item can be used for cruising or can be placed as an art sculpture as the board utilizes quality wood and print to display the iconic motif. To shop the latest collection from Mastermind Japan, click here. 

As for Mastermind World, we are introduced to a non-conventional approach as we see bright colors and patterns that divert from the overall darkened-punk styling commonly seen within their portfolio. The Multi Logo T-Shirt is seen in a white and black colorway that both highlight a rainbow reiteration of the brand’s traditional branding. Constructed with soft cotton, the tee’s are met with the screen printed graphics and the signature tie branding that is woven within the in-seam. Throughout the shirts within the collection, the signature skull and bones make their way as it signifies the brand’s true beginnings. Coinciding with the shirt, we see bright colors within the Multi-String Hoodie along with eccentric details upon the hood. The heavyweight fabrication showcases its leisurely quality that was elevated with quality cotton. Simplistic branding decorates the chest allowing the multi-string design to stand out. Apart from clothing, Mastermind World also incorporates newly designed iPhone Cases for the 12, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max. These cases highlight signature styles from the fashion label allowing those to take Mastermind wherever they go. To shop the latest collection from Mastermind World, click here. 

Mastermind World ‘Rhapsody’ + Mastermind Japan ‘Romantic’ SS21 is available at our Chinatown + Wynn Las Vegas location + online.