Rei Kawakubo, the enigmatic founder of Comme des Garçons (CdG), is known less for pronouncements and more for her groundbreaking designs. Her work speaks volumes, challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of fashion. While direct quotes from Kawakubo herself are rare, her philosophy and the essence of her brand are reflected in the impact of her creations and the interpretations of those who have worked with her. This article delves into the spirit of CdG, exploring the legacy of innovation expressed not through explicit statements, but through the clothes themselves. We'll also examine some interpretations of her design philosophy, gleaned from interviews and analyses by fashion experts.
What is Comme des Garçons known for?
Comme des Garçons is renowned for its avant-garde and often deconstructed aesthetic. The brand consistently challenges traditional notions of beauty and clothing, presenting designs that are experimental, unconventional, and thought-provoking. Instead of adhering to trends, CdG sets them, influencing designers and artists across various creative fields. Its pieces are known for their unique silhouettes, unexpected fabric combinations, and often anti-fashion approach. This rebellious spirit is arguably the most potent "quote" from the brand itself.
What is the philosophy behind Comme des Garçons?
The philosophy behind Comme des Garçons is deeply rooted in Rei Kawakubo's vision of challenging established norms within the fashion industry. It's not about creating beautiful clothes in the conventional sense, but about provoking thought and questioning expectations. It's about creating garments that are wearable art, pushing the boundaries of what clothing can be and how it can be experienced. The absence of explicit pronouncements from Kawakubo only adds to the mystique, allowing the clothes themselves to speak for the brand's philosophy. The enigmatic nature encourages interpretation, fostering a deeper engagement with the brand's identity.
What are some of Rei Kawakubo's design principles?
While direct quotes are scarce, analyzing Kawakubo’s designs reveals recurring principles:
- Deconstruction: Taking apart traditional garment structures and reconstructing them in unconventional ways, often creating asymmetrical or fragmented forms.
- Avant-garde materials: Employing unusual and unexpected fabrics, pushing the limits of texture and form. This isn't about luxury for luxury's sake, but about the inherent qualities of the material and its contribution to the overall design concept.
- Asymmetrical silhouettes: Creating unbalanced and unexpected shapes that challenge the symmetry typically associated with clothing.
- Conceptual storytelling: Using clothing as a medium to express complex ideas and narratives, often challenging societal norms and expectations.
Is Comme des Garçons high fashion?
Yes, Comme des Garçons is definitively considered high fashion. Its status is cemented by its position in the Paris fashion week schedule, its influence on other designers, and the high price point of its garments. However, “high fashion” in this context isn't about opulent embellishments or luxurious materials alone. It’s about conceptual innovation and the artistic merit of the design process. The brand embodies a unique definition of high fashion, one that prioritizes creativity and intellectual provocation over traditional opulence.
Why is Comme des Garçons so expensive?
The high cost of Comme des Garçons garments reflects the brand's unique design process, the quality of materials (often unconventional and sourced meticulously), and the labor-intensive creation of each piece. The conceptual and artistic nature of the designs adds significantly to the value, justifying the high price point as a reflection of the brand's artistic vision and its impact on the fashion world. It's less about luxury in the conventional sense and more about investing in a piece of art and a statement.
Conclusion: The Silent Statement of CdG
The legacy of Comme des Garçons isn't defined by pronouncements but by a powerful, silent statement expressed through its revolutionary designs. Rei Kawakubo’s unwillingness to explicitly articulate her philosophy allows for a unique engagement with the brand, prompting continuous interpretation and appreciation of its subversive and innovative approach to fashion. The clothes themselves stand as a testament to her creative vision, solidifying Comme des Garçons' place as a true icon of fashion innovation.
