Tokyo: The Japanese fashion industry is a melting pot of creativity, showcasing both established names like Sacai and Comme des Garçons and emerging talents. With a unique blend of traditional and modern aesthetics, Japan continues to influence global fashion trends significantly.
The Japanese fashion industry, renowned for its innovative and diverse offerings, continues to captivate both domestic and international audiences. With a landscape that ranges from the exuberance of Harajuku to minimalist luxury, Japan has established itself as a pivotal hub for fashion designers and labels.
Among the notable brands is Sacai, founded in 1999 by Chitose Abe. Sacai has gained recognition for its unique aesthetic that merges sportswear with haute couture. The label employs contemporary techniques such as 3D modelling, crafting garments that juxtapose traditional forms with modern sensibilities. Their collaborations with global brands like Nike and Moncler have further solidified their status in the luxury fashion realm.
Comme des Garçons (CDG), established by Rei Kawakubo, is another cornerstone of Japanese fashion. CDG challenges conventional norms of clothing by disregarding trends and traditional gender specifications, creating instead an illustrious legacy that even became the theme of the 2017 Met Gala. This marked a significant moment, being the first time the museum focused on a living designer since the late Yves Saint Laurent in 1983.
Fumiku, launched in 2018 by Fumika Hayashi, provides a more ethereal representation of fashion, drawing inspiration from the spaces between reality and fantasy. The brand is characterised by its exploration of gender-fluid shapes and the use of tactile materials that enhance the sensory experience of fashion.
Emerging designer Akiko Aoki is redefining womenswear through a performance-focused lens, deconstructing traditional garments to present innovative designs. Similarly, Tokyo menswear label Soshiotsuki, celebrated for its oversized blazers and unconventional businesswear, has marked its tenth anniversary since Soshi Otsuki was nominated for the prestigious LVMH prize in 2013.
Kozaburo, led by Kozaburo Akasaka, draws inspiration from his upbringing in Japan’s rich subculture and merges it with a fantastical interpretation of traditional motifs. The brand’s latest collection reflects a “cosmic rock ‘n’ roll cowboy” aesthetic, creating a dialogue between Japan’s historical narratives and contemporary fashion.
Established in 2011 by Hideaki Shikama, Children of the Discordance is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability. The brand focuses on upcycling and incorporates materials sourced from communities in Africa and Palestine, creating garments that honour textile traditions through inventive designs.
Junya Watanabe emerged from a renowned apprenticeship under Kawakubo at CDG, developing a gritty, avant-garde line that has collaborated with brands like New Balance and Carhartt. AMBUSH, initially a jewellery brand, has transitioned into a leading luxury streetwear label known for its pop-art aesthetic stemming from Tokyo’s vibrant culture. AMBUSH has collaborated with high-profile designers and brands including Louis Vuitton and Dior.
Since its founding in 1984, Hysteric Glamour, created by Nobuhiko Kitamura, has garnered a cult following. The rock-and-roll-inspired brand remains a significant player in street style, boasting extensive retail presence across Japan and internationally in cities like London and Paris.
AURALEE exhibits a philosophy centred on simplicity and texture, offering a ready-to-wear collection that combines modernity with elegant formality. Doublet presents a playful fusion of Japanese pop culture and streetwear, while SS Stein, founded in 2016, merges minimalism with wearability, focusing on relaxed silhouettes and timeless pieces.
As the Japanese fashion scene continues to evolve, it retains its position at the forefront of global fashion, with both established and emerging designers generating significant influence in the industry. The enduring legacy and ingenuity of these brands illustrate Japan’s multifaceted approach to style and craftsmanship.
Source: Noah Wire Services
