Japan is a country that has always been at the forefront of fashion, with a rich and diverse history of styles, trends, and subcultures. From the avant-garde creations of Comme des Garçons to the streetwear staples of BAPE, Japan has influenced the global fashion scene in countless ways. In 2023, there are many Japanese clothing brands that are making waves in the industry, with innovative designs, high-quality materials, and unique aesthetics. Here are six of them that you need to know.
Sacai is a Japanese luxury fashion label that was founded by Chitose Abe in 1999. Abe is a former protégé of Rei Kawakubo, the founder of Comme des Garçons, and her designs reflect a similar sense of experimentation and deconstruction. Sacai is known for its hybrid garments, which combine different fabrics, patterns, and silhouettes to create unexpected and original pieces. Some of the brand’s signature items include pleated skirts, bomber jackets, knitwear, and dresses, all of which feature contrasting elements and details. Sacai has collaborated with various brands and artists, such as Nike, The North Face, and Daniel Arsham, and has also launched a menswear line in 2009.
Junya Watanabe: The Genius of Reconstruction
Junya Watanabe is another protégé of Rei Kawakubo, who started his own label under the Comme des Garçons umbrella in 1992. Watanabe is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential designers in the world, with a knack for transforming everyday items into works of art. Watanabe is known for his use of unconventional materials, such as paper, metal, plastic, and synthetic fabrics, and his mastery of cutting, patchworking, and origami techniques. His collections often explore themes such as geometry, technology, nature, and culture, and feature striking shapes, colors, and textures. Watanabe has also collaborated with many brands and artists, such as Levi’s, Converse, Carhartt, and Moncler.
Fumika: The Rising Star of Femininity
Fumika is a relatively new Japanese fashion brand that was founded by Fumika Uchida in 2017. Uchida is a former stylist and editor, who decided to launch her own label after working in the industry for over a decade. Fumika is a brand that celebrates femininity, with a focus on delicate fabrics, soft colors, and romantic silhouettes. The brand’s collections feature dresses, blouses, skirts, and pants, all of which are designed to flatter the female figure and enhance the wearer’s confidence. Fumika is a brand that is gaining popularity both in Japan and abroad, with celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Selena Gomez spotted wearing its pieces.
AKIKOAOKI: The Rebel of Minimalism
AKIKOAOKI is a Japanese fashion brand that was founded by Akiko Aoki in 2014. Aoki is a graduate of the prestigious Bunka Fashion College, and has worked as a designer for several brands before starting her own. AKIKOAOKI is a brand that challenges the norms of minimalism, with a style that is both simple and complex, elegant and edgy, classic and modern. The brand’s collections feature tailored suits, coats, shirts, and dresses, all of which are made with high-quality fabrics and impeccable craftsmanship. However, the brand also adds unexpected twists and details, such as asymmetry, embroidery, ruffles, and fringes, to create a sense of contrast and surprise. AKIKOAOKI is a brand that is not afraid to break the rules and express its own vision.
Soshiotsuki: The Pioneer of Sustainability
Soshiotsuki is a Japanese fashion brand that was founded by Soshi Otsuki in 2016. Otsuki is a former graphic designer and illustrator, who decided to pursue his passion for fashion and create his own label. Soshiotsuki is a brand that is committed to sustainability, with a philosophy of “less is more”. The brand’s collections feature minimalist and timeless garments, such as jackets, sweaters, pants, and shirts, all of which are made with organic cotton, hemp, linen, and recycled materials. The brand also uses natural dyes, such as indigo, turmeric, and coffee, to create subtle and earthy colors. Soshiotsuki is a brand that aims to reduce its environmental impact and promote a slow and conscious lifestyle.
Kozaburo: The Innovator of Subculture
Kozaburo is a Japanese fashion brand that was founded by Kozaburo Akasaka in 2016. Akasaka is a graduate of the prestigious Central Saint Martins and Parsons School of Design, and has worked as a designer for Thom Browne and Alexander McQueen before launching his own label. Kozaburo is a brand that is inspired by subcultures, such as rock, punk, and hip-hop, and blends them with traditional Japanese craftsmanship and aesthetics. The brand’s collections feature denim, leather, wool, and silk garments, all of which are handcrafted and customized with techniques such as distressing, patching, and embroidering. The brand also incorporates elements of music, art, and culture into its designs, creating a unique and eclectic style. Kozaburo is a brand that is constantly evolving and experimenting with new ideas and expressions.
