#Japan #Tokyo #United Arrows #TELMA #Nakajima Terumasa

United Arrows Collaborates with Designer Terumasa Nakajima to Launch TELMA

In a significant move within the fashion landscape, United Arrows Inc. (CEO: Yoshinori Matsuzaki) has officially established a subsidiary named TELMA, effective from January 7, 2026. This exciting new venture is rooted in the brand created by celebrated designer Terumasa Nakajima, who has cultivated a unique aesthetic through extensive experience with renowned labels such as Dries Van Noten and Issey Miyake.

TELMA's Vision and Mission

Founded in 2022, TELMA was born from Nakajima's dedication to timeless beauty and craftsmanship. The brand's ethos revolves around creating garments that are not only stylish but also sustainable, reflecting the wisdom of traditional techniques and providing a new perspective on clothing. Nakajima's ambition is to enrich everyday life with his designs, making luxury accessible and meaningful.

With the acquisition of TELMA, United Arrows aims to expand its brand portfolio to include high-trend and luxury segments. This strategic partnership is designed to promote the overseas expansion of emerging designers and enhance market share within Japan. The integration of TELMA into United Arrows marks a focused effort to diversify and solidify their position in the evolving fashion industry.

The Long-Term Vision

In May 2023, United Arrows unveiled its long-term vision for sustainable growth. The company aspires to contribute to a reliable and valuable lifestyle product group that continues to be appreciated by customers. A significant part of this vision includes embracing fashion as a core domain while expanding the customer base through diversification and mergers and acquisitions.

Exploring the Foundation of TELMA

Let’s break down the essential elements of the newly established TELMA:

1. Company Name: TELMA Ltd.

2. Representative: Kazuya Tanaka

3. Location: 3-28-1 Jinguumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

4. Establishment Date: January 7, 2026

5. Business Focus: Planning, manufacturing, and selling clothing and fashion accessories

6. Capital: 100 million yen

The Creative Mind Behind TELMA

Terumasa Nakajima is a graduate of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, where his graduation collection received widespread acclaim, making him the first Japanese designer to win both the Christine Mathys Prize and the Louis Prize. Following this recognition, he joined Dries Van Noten as an assistant designer. His journey then led him back to Japan, where he further honed his skills at Issey Miyake, focusing on unique silhouettes and fabric development in collaboration with domestic producers.

In 2022, Nakajima launched TELMA, allowing his designs to reflect a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, aimed at creating garments that offer a rich expression of material and form.

The United Arrows Legacy

Established in 1989, United Arrows has built a reputation for its curated selection of designer clothing and accessories, incorporating a mix of original and gathered items. Their brands, including United Arrows, Beauty & Youth United Arrows, and Green Label Relaxing, reflect a commitment to unique fashion sensibilities that resonate with discerning customers.

As TELMA embarks on this new chapter as part of United Arrows, it promises to bring vibrancy and innovation to both local and international fashion markets, setting a benchmark for sustainable and aesthetically pleasing apparel. With Terumasa Nakajima at the helm, the future looks bright for TELMA and its aim to transform the way we perceive and wear fashion today.