TokiDoki How I LOVE Thee!

So, it's no secret that I'm a ginormous fan of Tokidoki. Recently, I got a sneak peek to their Spring 2011 bag collection. *le siiihgh* Usually, I'm excited to see Legno's characters overlap to but this bag was way less than what I've ever expected of the brand. The design wasn't "whack", in my opinion. I just think the punchline wasn't their ... like they put out an idea that they're going to build on.

Hmmm ... now that I think of it, I hope that's what they're planning on doing. If so, oh boy that's be a brilliant way to bait people in. "Why?", you ask. Well, because I know I'm not the only one in this world who'll still continue looking at Tokidoki and following the brand, even after this (in our eyes) miss.

Well, I'll remain hopeful. For now, I was able to discuss the artistic perspective of this with two of my artist friends, Terry Biddle and Darryl Bennett. Here's what they think of the brand and how they felt about sneak preview.

IKB: When you think TokiDoki, what comes to mind?

DB: Superflat style, bubble gum pop

TB: Japanese influence without "mimicry"

IKB: What's your favorite tokidoki piece (that you own or admire) and what about it do you like?

DB: I like there bags and purses where they are covered with Tokidoki characters, I love that collage of their characters.

TB: I just own one hat, but I love his t-shirts (Simone Legno). I find his artwork to be really inspirational. I'm really into creating characters (I have been since I was a kid), and I have a real interest in producing apparel, toys and other merchandising featuring my characters.

I work as a designer full time, and an illustrator/artist in my free time...so I'm really inspired by people that seem to straddle the line between those worlds. That's the happy medium I'd hope to someday achieve.

IKB: What do you think of the sneak peek in comparison to products you've seen? What would get you to buy it?

DB: I just seen this cheap looking purse with these sparrows on it, it kinda looks like he is trying to re-invent Ed Hardy stuff, which i have no issue with cause he is taking a idea thats been done and making it his own, but the build of the purse just looks like some mall kiosk embroidery stuff.

TB: This looks more tattoo inspired than his other work. As a dude, I'd probably only buy it if my wife wants it. ;)

until next time!

~je t'adore