The delicate beauty of washi, the traditional Japanese paper made from fibers, served as the muse for Issey Miyake’s latest collection, ‘The Beauty of Paper.’ Presented by creative director Satoshi Kondo on September 27th at the Bois de Vincennes in Paris, the collection was a celebration of this versatile and timeless material.
Guests were greeted with pieces of washi adorning their seats, a subtle hint of the materials’ prominent role in the show. On the runway, washi found its way into a diverse range of garments, from sharp tailoring and trench coats to even handbags. These pieces, referred to as ‘kamikos,’ represent the traditional art of crafting clothing from washi.
A playful touch of trompe l’oeil was added to the collection with T-shirts appearing to be layered over other shirts and sweaters, creating an illusion of mismatched attire. Stretchy jersey garments and face-covering organza outfits, both showcasing the paper’s transparency, added an ethereal quality to the collection. These translucent pieces, reminiscent of a cocoon, further highlighted the theme of lightness, comfort, and effortless elegance that the designer sought to convey.
The ‘The Beauty of Paper’ collection is a testament to Issey Miyake’s commitment to exploring innovative materials and techniques while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Through the artistry of washi, the collection presents a compelling dialogue between tradition and contemporary design, showcasing the material’s potential to shape the future of fashion.
