SINGAPORE — When your fashion creations have been featured by the likes of Women’s Wear Daily and Vogue Italia, as well as trendsetters like Tommy Ton and Susie Buble, you know your label’s definitely hit the big time.

Ever since Kunihiko Morinaga won the New York Gen Art Avant Garde Award in 2005, he has been considered one of Tokyo’s most exciting designers. He was recently in town to present his collection for the pop concept store Hello Shibuya Tokyo, at Plaza Singapura.

The 32-year-old designer behind the famed pixel-print of Anrealage confessed to being a die-hard techie. And it’s not just about the laser cut lapels in his jackets but his need to stay connected while on the road. “I bring my cameras and my computers. I use my notebook constantly when I travel,” he revealed. “I’d still be working though I’m supposed to be on a holiday in a beach resort.” SERENE LIM

What are some of your favourite beach resorts?

Kunihiko Morinaga: I’ve no particular favourite. Maybe I haven’t found one yet. But I especially like going to Thailand and Bali for a beach getaway as the service is always extraordinary and the environment is just beautiful and relaxing. Yes, I do wear my own clothes even when I’m on the beach.

Have strangers come up to you asking about your clothes?

Yes, that happens quite frequently all over the world. People do come up to ask me where I got my clothes from. Some even ask if they could buy it off me. But no, I haven’t sold any to these strangers.

Which city’s fashion scene inspires and excites you?

I think Asian cities are more exciting now. The fashion in Europe is quite formal and traditional in that they’re less experimental. In Asia, they combine luxury brands with street fashion brands. It’s very interesting. I’d say that Hong Kong is the most fashionable city in Asia. And Tokyo, too. Singapore’s fashion is very casual — but it’s good. It’s colourful.

What are some of your favourite spots in Japan?

Tokyo for shopping. Shibuya’s very good, especially Parco. To relax and get away from the buzz of Tokyo, I’d always go to Kyoto. It has got a lot of history and the food’s excellent. I especially love to eat their traditional delicacies like yuba (bean curd skin). Kyoto’s ramen is also different from Tokyo’s. I don’t know how to describe it but it just is. You have to try it.

Anrealage’s collection is at Hello Shibuya Tokyo, Main Atrium Level 1, Plaza Singapura, until March 10.