You and I have probably already shopped the JW Anderson x Uniqlo collections, which, to us less affluent shoppers, is a gift that keeps on giving. The two brands paired up in 2017 and continue to present us with Anderson’s creative visions at Uniqlo’s affordable prices. But Anderson’s collaboration with Japanese designers doesn’t stop at the famous retailer. The JW Anderson brand taps Japanese denim makers to create its raw indigo Japanese denim, which uses 100% cotton, untreated raw denim, and looks far cooler than your average pair of jeans.

Japanese denim is known globally as some of the highest-quality denim, celebrated for its craftsmanship, durability, traditional production methods, and use of natural materials and dyes.

I appreciate that Anderson is partnering with actual denim experts in Japan, too, rather than simply having his jeans manufactured there for the sake of a “Made in Japan” label. The result feels unique and artisanal, and I can tell by the style of the pants that someone with a deep understanding of Japanese fashion was involved in the creation process. I’ve seen this style of denim throughout cities like Tokyo, but even in the countryside, a preference for slouchy silhouettes is evident. JW Anderson’s denim collection has a very laid-back style with asymmetric cuts, which is something that resonates well with the Japanese audience—in part due to its affinity for streetwear, but also because of its more conservative way of dressing (skinny jeans = no go).

Anderson isn’t the first designer to draw inspiration from, learn from, or collaborate with Japan in various capacities. But he may be one of the few who does so consistently or this frequently, not to mention successfully. Before joining Dior, he was the creative director at Loewe, where he partnered with Studio Ghibli to create accessories adorned with the studio’s iconic characters. I remember when the collection first dropped, I myself was tempted to get a Hammock bag with a Spirited Away character painted on.

Designers who partner with Japan in ways that celebrate its areas of expertise and are mutually beneficial get all the praise from me. Japan is known for producing high-quality products across industries, and there are entrepreneurs and labels that simply wish to ride on that branding. I have seen American brands pretend to be Japanese or simply shoot all of its marketing assets in Japan simply to associate with the country. May we all take our hats off to Jonathan for not falling into that trap.