【British Literary Giants Walk in Reiwa】 Episode 32: At UNIQLO, we design to grow, With clarity and comfort in every show, Versatile wear that customers know—A trusted style that continues to flow.

William Shakespeare and Conan Doyle have been reincarnated in modern-day Kyoto. In an old-fashioned cafe, they discuss the culture and civilization of the Reiwa era. A new episode is published every day!

……By the way, Will. Walking through this city, I've noticed that people in this era wear clothes that are surprisingly similar, yet functional. Those colorful thin down jackets, simple sweaters…… I hear that a store called "UNIQLO" has completely transformed the clothing of this country—no, the world.

(While toying with his delicate lace sleeves) UNIQLO. Yes, I've heard of it. It's as if everyone is standing on the same stage, just with different roles. In the past, clothing was a "costume" that eloquently told of a person's status, profession, or inner passion.

Indeed. In the London I knew, one could tell from the mud on a man's shoes or the wear on his cuffs which brokerage firm he worked for, or whether he was unemployed and walking up and down the stairs. But this magic called "UNIQLO" has erased those class boundaries. Millionaires and job-seeking clerks alike are wrapped in the same quality of cashmere.

That is a kind of brilliant "disguise," Doyle. Everyone chooses to be common rather than special. But it's strange. Even though it seems to erase individuality, because they wear such simple clothes, I feel that the sparkle in their eyes and the habits in their gait stand out more clearly. It's like a refined monologue with all the unnecessary ornamentation stripped away.

Sharp. Certainly, practicality that excludes vanity is an aesthetic in itself. My friend Holmes might be pleased to see that functional pocket placement and say, "This is perfect for efficient criminal investigation." Or he might grumble that it's become harder to tail people because everyone wears the same clothes…… Still, what about that price? It's unbelievably cheap compared to when I was earning three pounds a week at Cuxon's shop.

Hehe. But just because it's inexpensive doesn't mean there's no story there. Even in a single white shirt, the "determination of the day" of the person who chose it must reside. Even if it's just clothes for heading to a temporary office in an attic, the moment one puts their arms through the sleeves, one begins to play the role of a new self.

I see. So clothes have become a canvas rather than a stage set. ……Actually, I peeked into the store on the corner earlier, and seeing the piles of merchandise folded so orderly, I felt a strange sense of awe, like a military barracks or a perfectly organized evidence locker.

Oh, Doyle. You should have tried one on. If you took off that rigid tweed and wrapped yourself in that light fleece, perhaps the great detective's deductions might become more flexible and free?

(Smiles bitterly and puffs on his pipe) You want me to wear that brightly colored parka? That would be like making Sherlock Holmes perform in a comedy, Will. ……But I must admit. That "closet open to everyone" might be the most democratic invention of the modern era.

Yes. Kings and jesters laughing together in the same shirt. That might be the most beautiful form of "comedy" I ever dreamed of. ……Say, Doyle. Next time you have a day off, will you choose a "UNIQLO" outfit that suits me? On your tab, of course.

Hahaha, that again! Very well. If you are going to wear it and play a new heroine on the modern street corner, I shall gladly pay for the costume.