An emblematic fusion of East and West, KENZO, under the direction of its visionary Creative Director, Nigo, is embarking on an unparalleled fashion journey – its first-ever runway show in the heartland of the East, China.
Set to unveil the Spring 2024 collection on July 28 in Shanghai, this historic event heralds an age of audacious fusion, cementing KENZO’s commitment to the potent Chinese market and further breathing life into the intertwining narrative of the late Kenzo Takada and the enchanting city of Paris.
KENZO‘s upcoming show in China represents an exciting new chapter for the brand, a clear testament to its rapidly expanding footprint in this part of the world. It is a fashion event draped in secrecy, with the tantalizing unknown location and details of the accompanying party shrouded in mystery, adding an enticing aura to this fashion rendezvous.
Nigo, renowned for his unique artistic flair, first introduced this collection on June 23 during the Paris Men’s Fashion Week. The chosen venue, Passerelle Debilly, a footbridge over the Seine that connects the Palais de Tokyo and the Eiffel Tower, played a pivotal role in symbolizing the cultural connection that lies at the heart of his work with KENZO. The bridge, a perfect metaphor for KENZO’s ethos, embodies a beautiful interplay between Kenzo Takada’s Japanese roots and the French capital’s charm – a liaison of two distinct cultures.
Nigo’s interpretation of KENZO has been about striking a balance between respecting the legacy of Takada and pushing the envelope of contemporary design. The Spring 2024 collection showcases an aesthetic maturity, moving away from the preppy, collegiate themes to embrace a more grown-up, Parisian sophistication. The repeat show in Shanghai promises fresh takes on the key looks introduced in Paris, but with a distinctive Chinese influence.
One of the exciting elements of this collection is the new KENZO Paris logo. Nigo has stamped this arresting serif font on judo jackets and canvas tote bags, and incorporated it as a busy print for T-shirts, windbreakers, and parkas. The logo signifies the evolution of the brand under his direction, uniting classic and modern design elements in a truly “KENZO” manner.
As the final icing on this global fashion event, KENZO recently announced the addition of K-pop star Vernon, from the acclaimed boy band Seventeen, as its global ambassador. This strategic appointment further highlights the brand’s deepening ties with the East, and the significant role that pop culture plays in global fashion diplomacy.
A part of the luxury conglomerate LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, KENZO continues to navigate new territories, enriching the fashion world with its distinct and innovative vision. The Shanghai show is not just an event; it is a testament to the brand’s commitment to its Chinese patrons and its audacity to redefine the East-West fashion dialogue.
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