Notebook on Cities and Clothes (1989), directed by Wim Wenders, takes viewers on a captivating journey through the mind of legendary Japanese designer Issey Miyake. The documentary dives deep into Miyake’s creative process, offering an intimate portrait of how he views fashion — not just as clothing, but as a means of self-expression and communication.
Wenders follows Miyake behind the scenes as he prepares for a fashion show, where he blends cutting-edge technology with traditional techniques. For instance, he shows how he uses computer programs to design patterns, but then applies them to hand-sewn fabric, maintaining the craftsmanship and organic nature of traditional tailoring.
Miyake is also famous for his pleats, which he creates using heat press technology — he heats the fabric to set the pleats, a technique that combines precision with artistry.
"I believe in clothes that let people live their own lives. Clothes should not stand in the way of life," he says, highlighting his goal to create wearable, functional art.
The documentary also touches on the larger context of how cities and cultures shape creative work.
Miyake reflects, "The city is like a mirror of society. It shows the way people think, live, and create."
The documentary has earned an impressive 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, receiving praise for its honest and deep exploration of fashion as both an art form and a way of connecting with the world.
