Hypebeast Community Center: Hikari no Yami

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Give us your elevator pitch.

My name is Jakarie Whitaker, and I’m the creative director and founder of the brand Hikari no Yami.

Hikari no Yami translates to “Light in Darkness” in Japanese. This brand aims to function as a cultural connector, blending my African American roots with the aesthetics and philosophies of Japan, particularly Kintsugi and wabi-sabi concepts.

 

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The Five Ws:

Who is wearing Hikari no Yami?

Our community welcomes individuals who are trailblazers, innovators, creators, rule-breakers, and those who embrace uniqueness. We welcome all who find charm in the unpolished or flawed.

What is your brand’s main message?

Creating enduring pieces with no bounds, and experiencing freedom through harmonious contrasts. Blending Eastern and Western cultures by uniting seemingly opposite elements such as tranquility and turbulence, light and darkness, order and disorder… all the while promoting eco-conscious, thought-provoking fashion trends.

When did you launch your label?

In 2020, amidst the pandemic, I initiated Hikari no Yami. Originally, it was my personal means of protest and creative outlet; however, it eventually transformed into an international conversation.

Where are people wearing Hakari no Yami?

These cities – Tokyo, New York City, Seoul, Shanghai – are places where fashion and culture collide in a vibrant mix. The versatility of this brand makes it perfect for any event, ensuring you’ll catch attention wherever you go.

Why was Hikari no Yami created?

I aimed to break free from conventional fashion norms and let my creativity run wild without boundaries or preconceived notions. In search of a place where I could celebrate my roots and the Eastern philosophies, particularly Japanese design aesthetics, I established it. To me, Hikari no Yami is a reflection of my personal philosophy that others can connect with.









About The Brand:

When did fashion design become a passion for you – and on top of that, an intended career path?

In the past, I entered the world of fashion relatively late. During my gap year, I encountered Virgil’s “The Ten” collection which was a transformative moment for me. This experience led me to make a significant change in my academic path. Instead of pursuing pre-medicine, I opted for fashion and philosophy. Since then, I have immersed myself in the field of design, viewing it not only as a creative outlet but also as a means to bring about change.

You’re a four-time Virgil Abloh scholar. How did that experience help shape your craft?

One of the mentors who guided me in cultivating my creative vision was Virgil, a renowned designer. Being immersed in the teachings of Virgil Abloh instilled a sense of self-assurance in my artistic expression. His enduring legacy has shown me to create from sincerity, to reinterpret culture with intelligence, and to challenge established systems without reservation. The scholarships I received were not merely accolades; they served as validation that I was an integral part of the community. Witnessing Virgil’s ability to dismantle and reinvent things sparked the foundation for my brand’s values.

In your journey so far with fashion design, what has emerged as the most significant insight as you prepare to start your master’s program at Central Saint Martins this coming autumn?

Traveling to various fashion institutions globally has instilled in me the significance of networking, persistence, and learning to make an impact amidst a multitude of strong voices. Additionally, I’ve learned that the only true rivalry is the one against oneself.

How would you define Hikari no Yami’s style in your own words?

Hikari no Yami represents a blend of liberty and disorder, a reflection of my journeys and professional stints with esteemed fashion labels, as well as my personal interpretation of contemporary fashion’s essence.









What do you think makes Hikari no Yami stand out in today’s sea of emerging fashion brands?

Instead of merely crafting garments, we construct philosophies. Our dedication to eco-friendliness, unique aesthetics, and cultural narratives set us apart from typical rising brands. The pursuit of liberty permeates our creations, and this sentiment echoes in the hearts of those who view them.

How does Hikari no Yami establish its unique character, a persona marked by punk aesthetics and clever design tactics? Can you elaborate on the significance of visual elements in the narrative of this brand?

In my perspective, our visuals aim to immerse the audience within the realm of Hikari no Yami. I strongly feel that visual elements are paramount in storytelling, and I strive to ensure they encapsulate the core aspects of our brand: culture, monochrome themes, and the interplay between light and shadow.

What style codes or eras do you draw inspiration from?

My design inspiration primarily comes from the revolutionary Karasu-Zoku movement, pioneered by Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto, and Issey Miyake during the ’80s. This avant-garde reverse tailoring and streetwear style has deeply influenced me. In addition, the Post-Modern Renaissance ushered in by Virgil Abloh in the 2010s instills in me the empowering belief that “you can do it too.”

I draw design inspiration from a fashion movement called Karasu-Zoku which was started in the ’80s by designers like Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto, and Issey Miyake. They combined avant-garde reverse tailoring with streetwear styles. More recently, Virgil Abloh’s Post-Modern Renaissance movement of the 2010s has made me feel that I too can make a big impact in design.








What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced while building your brand?

As a gamer, I’ve found it challenging yet gratifying to independently finance my projects. It’s like embarking on an epic quest with no clear map, but the thrill of progressing and achieving milestones keeps me going!

Who would you most like to see your designs on?

The dream is Rihanna and A$AP Rocky, also Zendaya and Fuji Kaze.

What’s next for Hikari no Yami?

Following our display at Paris Fashion Week and reaching the finals for the Fashion Trust U.S, we are eagerly preparing for our inaugural showcase during New York Fashion Week in September.

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2025-07-25 20:26