Although he has only just graduated, Melbourne fashion founder Yuma Cochrane has big plans for his new brand Yumaverse.
“I hope Yumaverse becomes more than just a clothing label — a creative community that uplifts local artists, encourages collaboration, and supports sustainable fashion movements.”
THE JOURNEY BEHIND YUMAVERSE
Born in Brisbane and brought up on the Sunshine Coast, Yuma describes himself as both a designer and a maker: “I’d consider myself to be both a designer and a maker, as I design and hand-make each garment myself.”
“That being said, I still feel like I’ve only just begun this journey of making and designing. I’m constantly learning, experimenting, and finding my own creative voice, so I feel like I’m still very much at the beginning of the process.”
“The official brand launch is still in the works,” Yuma explains, “however, the Instagram page is already up and running, so feel free to check it out, @yuma_verse. Exciting things are on the way.”
Yuma says that his interest in fashion began with a love of craft, something that is a central part of his Japanese heritage too.
“I always knew I wanted to work in a creative space, but I only discovered fashion as my passion relatively recently.
“During COVID, I was stuck in Japan for two years. At times it was challenging and uncomfortable, but overall it was an exciting and rewarding experience. I was fortunate enough to meet incredible people who introduced me to the world of art, self-expression, and storytelling through clothing.
“I started sewing and upcycling in 2022 after returning from Japan. While I was there, I spent a lot of time with my aunt and uncle, who are part of a creative collective called Antibodies Collective. Their influence played a significant role in inspiring me to start creating my own garments.
“The name was chosen during a fun brainstorming session with my dad. I wanted something broad and limitless — a space where I could showcase many different forms of creativity. Yumaverse felt like the perfect fit; a place to share and explore all kinds of projects.”
CREATING STREETWEAR THROUGH UPCYCLING AND CRAFT
Yuma says that he is inspired by designers and brands like Nicholas Daley, Charlie Constantinou, and DULSE1000. “They’re the first three that come to mind, but there are so many other designers whose work I love following and learning from.”
“Yumaverse focuses on sustainable, comfortable streetwear inspired by my Japanese heritage, minimalism, and a strong appreciation for craftsmanship. The brand explores unisex garments and subtle forms of self-expression through thoughtful details.
“Many of the designs aim to balance both feminine and masculine energies, creating pieces that feel inclusive and adaptable.
“I would describe the aesthetic as playful silhouettes combined with quiet, contemplative design. The garments are intended to work with the body rather than against it, resulting in pieces that feel natural, comfortable, and contemporary.”
According to Yuma, the brand “focuses on transforming unused materials and fabrics into functional, wearable pieces of art”.
“The garments are designed to be versatile, adapting to different aesthetics, climates, and personal styles while moving towards a more genderless approach to fashion.
“Waste is minimised throughout the creation process, with every garment being thoughtfully designed and carefully constructed.
“The brand also incorporates natural dyes made from food waste to transform fabrics and garments in a more environmentally conscious way,” Yuma says.
Yuma’s long-term goals include the official launch of Yumaverse, however he is also “keeping an open mind about where the journey might lead”.
“I’d love to move into a dedicated studio space, release small collections throughout the year, and gradually grow the brand to a point where I can bring more people on board to help create and collaborate.
“At its core, I simply want to create clothing that people genuinely love and enjoy wearing.
In the future, I hope Yumaverse becomes more than just a clothing label — a creative community that uplifts local artists, encourages collaboration, and supports sustainable fashion movements.”
For more information about Yumaverse, go to @yuma_verse
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