COS, the London-based fashion brand known for its minimalist aesthetic, has launched an intriguing collaboration with Kyoto craftsman Kazuki Tabata, a master of shibori, a traditional Japanese resist dyeing technique. This limited-edition summer capsule collection, available from June 2024, offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of artistic heritage while embracing contemporary style.
This collaboration is a bridge between the meticulous techniques of the past and the clean lines of modern design. Fourteen COS staples, including accessories, menswear and womenswear, are transformed by Shibori in a masterful blend of technical expertise and artistic flair. The result? A collection that seamlessly blends serenity and timelessness, expressed through soft shades of blue, orange and brown.
Shibori, the heart of this collection, is more than a dyeing technique; it’s a cultural legacy facing an uncertain future. With over 100 variations, mastering even a few requires a lifetime of dedication. Traditionally, entire villages worked together to create a single kimono using shibori. Today, the art form is primarily used to decorate towels, yukatas (lightweight robes), and some clothing. The decline of the kimono market, economic downturns, and competition threaten to extinguish this art.
The unlikely partnership between COS and Tabata is a testament to their shared passion for preserving tradition. Initially skeptical of the approach, Tabata was surprised by COS’s interest in his work. This collaboration provides a platform not only for the exquisite designs, but also for the rich stories and history embedded in shibori.
The 14-piece capsule features a variety of shibori techniques, including “sekka,” a hexagonal geometric design dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 AD). Originally used to decorate Buddhist statues, the pattern later came to resemble hemp leaves, symbolizing rapid growth and purity – a fitting motif for baby clothing.
Karin Gustafsson, COS Design Director, has long been fascinated by the inherent movement and softness of shibori. Each piece in the collection embodies a sense of uniqueness and handcrafted quality. The collaboration aligns perfectly with COS’ ethos of offering a “subtle yet impactful way to incorporate pattern” while reflecting Japan’s rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit.
Karin Gustafsson plans to visit Kyoto to meet with Tabata and his team and further immerse herself in the shibori tradition. Both COS and Tabata share a commitment to seeing this art form thrive. For Tabata, the mission is clear: to prevent shibori from fading into obscurity and to ensure its appreciation by future generations.
The COS x Tabata Shibori collection will be available online globally from June 5, as well as in 31 Cos stores in Europe, 21 locations in Asia-Pacific, nine locations in North America and in four franchise stores.