During Milan Fashion Week, international DJ and record producer Anfisa Letyago brought Highsnobiety along during a day with the legacy Japanese brand Onitsuka Tiger.
Every edition of Milan Fashion Week is special. Really, it's more than just clothes; it's a celebration of creativity and art, bringing together so many brilliant minds from around the world for one event. The entire spectacle is genuinely inspiring, and I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to be a part of it, especially this time with a legacy brand like Onitsuka Tiger.
The week is always hectic; every moment filled with adrenaline and excitement. Usually, I like to start my mornings very quietly. I often listen to music and take some time alone to focus and center myself. But ahead of my day with Onitsuka, I noticed a mix of anticipation and nerves stirring within me. I can still remember my initial introduction to the brand. I was searching for a pair of athletic shoes that were both sporty and cool, yet elegant and polished. I quickly discovered that that elusive balance is ingrained in Onitsuka’s brand identity.
Last September, I was invited to their runway show in Milan for the first time, and coincidentally, I had just returned from a tour in Japan. After witnessing the exhibition, I became even more enamored with the brand. I saw my personal style reflected in the collection; it was a beautiful synergy. Now, my wardrobe is filled with numerous Onitsuka collection pieces—in addition to the shoes, of course.
Before the show day, I'd been planning my outfit with the team for a while, but nothing compares to seeing the creative vision come to life. My usual style is quite laid-back—messy hair, oversized jeans, T-shirts, and a loose-fitting jacket are staples of mine. But during MFW, you have to step it up a little bit, right? Still, I never feel like I’m straying too far from my everyday aesthetic while dressed in Onitsuka. For the show, I chose a black dress that felt both elegant and sporty, pairing it with super-comfortable black boots and a unisex black aviator-style leather bomber jacket. I loved everything about my outfit, but the jacket really brought it all together for me.
The rain was coming down as we taxied over to the show. It created a very romantic backdrop for the afternoon. When I arrived at the show, I immediately felt the vibrant pulse of the moment as I witnessed countless people in line brimming with enthusiasm. I entered the warehouse-like space and saw so many people taking photos, eagerly greeting friends, and unboxing their special gifts at their seats as we all awaited the presentation to begin.
And then, in a flash, the lights went down and the energy shifted: it was finally showtime. I was instantly struck by the choice of music—proper techno! It heightened my excitement even more, as the sound design of a show can make or break it for me, and I must say the impact here was powerful.
As the models came out, all my focus shifted to the new collection. No surprise, the jackets caught my eye—I need the grey leather biker jacket ASAP. The shoes and boots, alongside the t-shirts and hoodies, were equally impressive! My favorite look was the oversized grey sweatshirt, adorned with different accessories. As all the models did one last lap, signaling the conclusion of the show, all I could do was sit in awe of how layered and multidimensional the Onitsuka brand has become.
Filing out of the venue, I was a bit relieved to see that the rain had lightened up—it’s only charming when you’re inside the car. Soon, I headed back to the hotel to rest a bit and get prepared for the afterparty that was just a few hours away. I could feel myself getting anxious with anticipation. After a day of watching others flex their creative muscles, it was my turn to show off a bit and curate the vibe—something I can proudly say few do as well as I do.
My journey into electronic music began when I was a teenager, exploring clubs with my friends. I was utterly captivated by the culture, the energy, and the hypnotic sounds. By 2009, I was immersed in the scene, not just by playing as a disc selector, but also through promoting my own events. Gradually, I went from being a local record spinner to headlining in clubs all across Italy.
The hours before my sets usually resemble my mornings—slow, calm, focused. Before heading out for the party, I considered how to combine my own musical style with the mood of Onitsuka. For me, it’s all about creating a shared experience—something that everyone can connect to.
I did a quick outfit change into this beautiful grey dress that the team and I picked out. I chose the look because it was cool and comfortable, which is essential for me when I’m behind the decks. I decided to accessorize with pieces from the collaboration between Onitsuka and Japanese high-jewelry brand MIKIMOTO. To me, this was the perfect finish, elevating my look to the next level. I was ready for the night.
Arriving back, I was impressed by how quickly the space was turned from a high-fashion runway stage to an area fit for mingling and dancing. I first caught up with some of my friends from the brand as we walked into a section of the venue where all of the looks were on display. I told them how in love I was with everything, and even got to see my favorite piece up close, confirming my feelings that it needs to be added to my wardrobe now.
I grabbed a quick drink, grooved to the opener a bit, and then it was my turn. When I'm behind the decks, I'm not really thinking about anything. I just feel the energy in the room, the crowd, and the vibe, and I try to build on it. I still do get nervous sometimes, but on these occasions, it’s more about leaning into all the excitement. My sole goal is to establish a deep connection with the dance floor, to create an intimate atmosphere where the barriers between me and the crowd dissolve. Once that happens, the real magic begins.
It was truly a moment to behold. Seeing the mix of people from the fashion world, my team, and everyone from Onitsuka just letting go and dancing to my music—it was the perfect fusion of worlds. I felt so honored to be the one helping bring all of these people together. The whole thing was a full-circle moment for me, being able to work so closely with an iconic brand that I’ve admired for so long.
What excites me the most about Onitsuka is that they are not afraid to evolve. They respect their heritage and iconic designs, but they continually push into new territory. It’s very similar to when I DJ. I'm always trying to create something that is distinctly my own.
That’s why I’ll always keep a soft spot for Onitsuka because we’re similar in that way. So when I’m able to show love and support, especially during a time like Milan Fashion Week, I’ll be there in any way I can.
But for now, it’s off to France to play a festival in Marseille—I never stop. Till next time, Onitsuka!
See the complete Onitsuka Tiger SS26 Collection here.
