London-based jewellery designer Toshi ‘T-Dog Junior’ Takahashi has been crafting some of the finest silver pieces for just over 13 years. Originally from Japan, he has independently built up the brand Dog State (est. 2004), through which he distributes his handiwork of unique silver rings, earrings and pendants. Be it a one-eyed grinning skull, a beautiful rose or British bulldog, Toshi does it all with a distinguished skill.
Whoareya + what do you do?
My name is Toshi Takahashi and I am a jewellery designer. I own the label Dog State.
Tell us more about Dog State.
I’ve been making rings since ’98, I’m self-taught, but I worked in a jewellery store on Carnaby Street for 5 or 6 years which was fun, I learnt a lot there and it made me want to do my own thing even more. I would come home and just improve my skills to make my designs better.
Dog State is just me making and selling jewellery that I like. I specialise in modern skull and animal designs. When I do custom work, it’s a relationship between me and the customer, we make the piece together.
How do you go about your design process?
When I wake up if I want to make rings I will, otherwise I won’t. I draw inspiration from a lot of sources; when I’m out on my bike or walking and I get ideas from nature and animals I see, I’ll then come home and work off that.
What’s playing in the headphones this week?
I listen to a lot of jazz. At the moment I’m working to Miles Davis.
Are you reading anything interesting at the moment?
I hardly read, but I do browse a lot of blogs, like my friends Bounty Hunter, Secret Base and Illustrator End.
What’s your worst form of procrastination?
I spend a lot of time on YouTube looking at dumb stuff.
Is there anything that you collect or hoard?
I don’t actually. I’d love to collect clown and joker related memorabilia, but if I started, I would never stop. I used to also collect jewellery, but that cost me way too much.
Your favourite spots around London town? Do you prefer to party or chill?
I rarely go out, but if I am out I’m usually going to this Japanese spot, Tsurukame (Crane & Tortoise), near Chancery Lane.
What do you love/hate seeing around London?
[Laughs] I could go on forever about what I hate so let’s start with love. I love seeing such a diverse mix of cultures in town. I hate the miserable weather. When it’s so cloudy outside, I don’t feel to make anything.
Three of your favourite brands and why?
Bounty Hunter – I love their overall style and collection.
Tenderloin – They made some amazing jewellery and jackets. Their stuff suits me a lot.
Dickies – I don’t wear denim too often, I’ve been wearing Dickies pretty much everyday for over 10 years. They’re just hard wearing and good for the conditions that I work in.
Wouldn’t be caught dead wearing…?
[Laughs] Can I say? I don’t like Ed Hardy because it looks like it disrespects tattoo culture.
Briefly describe your own style.
I like plain things. If I wear prints, I have to think about what I’m wearing. With my long hair, tattoos and jewellery, it’s just easier to just dress simple.
You never leave the house without…?
I never leave without my keys on the big skull chain and my bike. I don’t like London Transport.
What would you do with a big Lotto win?
I’m not a big spender. I’d open my own jewellery store in Los Angeles.
Toshi is currently in the process of revamping his website, but you can still check it out and if you’re after some crazy custom work, don’t hesitate to get in touch with him for an appointment!
Dog State is also available in store and online at Goodhood, London.
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