not just designing for yourself, but for the world.
Give Us Your Elevator Pitch: Meet Jakarie Whitaker, Creative Director and Founder of Hikari no Yami
My name is Jakarie Whitaker, and I’m the mastermind behind the brand Hikari no Yami. But don’t let the name fool you – this brand is all about merging cultures and breaking boundaries.
What is Hikari no Yami?
Hikari no Yami, which translates to “light of darkness” in Japanese, is a brand that fuses my African American roots with Japanese design principles like Kintsugi and wabi-sabi. It’s a cultural bridge that celebrates imperfection and embraces duality.
Who Wears Hikari no Yami?
Our community is made up of leaders, thinkers, artists, rebels, and anyone who doesn’t fit into the conventional box. We welcome those who appreciate the beauty in imperfection and are drawn to our sustainable and philosophical fashion.
What’s the Main Message of Hikari no Yami?
Our brand is all about breaking traditional fashion systems and creating without limitations. We believe in the power of duality and cultural fusion, and our designs reflect that. Plus, we’re all about sustainability and pushing the boundaries of what fashion can be.
When Did Hikari no Yami Launch?
Hikari no Yami officially launched in 2020, during the midst of the pandemic. It started as a form of self-expression and protest, but quickly evolved into a global conversation.
Where Can You Find Hikari no Yami?
From Tokyo to NYC, Seoul to Shanghai, our brand is making waves wherever style and culture intersect. Our versatile designs are suitable for any occasion and are sure to turn heads.
Why Was Hikari no Yami Created?
I created Hikari no Yami as a way to honor my heritage and the Japanese design sensibilities that I love. It’s my personal philosophy book that others can relate to and find inspiration in.
About the Brand
When Did Fashion Design Become a Passion for You?
Fashion came into my life later than most. It wasn’t until I saw Virgil Abloh’s “The Ten” collection during a gap year that everything changed. I switched from pre-med to fashion and philosophy, and never looked back.
How Did Being a Four-Time Virgil Abloh Scholar Shape Your Craft?
Virgil Abloh was one of the designers who taught me to dream. Being a scholar under him gave me the confidence to use my voice and create from a place of truth. His legacy continues to inspire me to remix culture with intellect and break systems without apology.
What Has Been Your Biggest Takeaway from Studying Fashion Design?
Studying fashion all over the world has taught me the importance of networking, dedication, and standing out in a sea of voices. It’s also a reminder that fashion is not just about personal expression, but also about creating for the world. And with my upcoming master’s program at Central Saint Martins, I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries and making my mark in the industry.
