JUNYA WATANABE - STORY BEHIND THE STYLE
THE START AT COMME DES GARÇONS
Rei Kawakubo was a deeply influential role model for Junya, shaping the way he understood fashion through a lens of design, philosophy, and experimentation. Junya studied at Bunka Fashion College in Tokyo, graduating in 1984, where he developed a strong foundation in traditional Japanese tailoring, intricate pattern cutting, and an in-depth understanding of garment construction. After graduating, Junya joined Rei Kawakubo at Comme des Garçons, further refining his skills in pattern making and construction. Three years later, he was named head designer of the diffusion knitwear line, Tricot. In 1992, Junya Watanabe launched his own namesake brand, eventually branching into an independent line that pushed his craft beyond the framework of CDG.
THE 2000’S
The shows of the 2000s highlighted Junya’s mastery of fabric manipulation, innovative design, and artisanal skill—both during his time at Comme des Garçons and in the early years of his independent label. The Fall/Winter collections in particular introduced experimental silhouettes and sculptural shapes, brought to life through bold color and experimental construction. Critics referred to this collection as “techno couture,” a reflection of how the garments moved, stood, and interacted with the body. Each look served as a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship that defines Junya’s work.
JUNYA WATANABE MAN
In 2003, the launch of Junya Watanabe Man marked a pivotal expansion into menswear, allowing Junya to explore new construction techniques and develop a distinct aesthetic across genders. The line quickly gained global recognition, opening the door to collaborations that blended his conceptual approach with streetwear influences. This expansion further cemented his ability to balance experimentation with wearability.
UTILITY AND RECONSTRUCTION
The Fall/Winter 2006 collection embodied the house’s utilitarian and distressed sensibility and is often regarded as one of Junya’s most provocative shows. Models appeared in army green palettes, with edgy masks obscuring their faces, creating a confrontational and powerful atmosphere. Patchwork remained a central technique but evolved through the use of military-inspired materials. While the collection paid homage to Junya’s roots in traditional Japanese tailoring, it deliberately challenged conventional ideas of reconstruction. The show also referenced punk culture, reinforcing his ongoing dialogue with rebellion and rule-breaking in fashion.
A CONTINUING EVOLUTION
The Spring/Summer 2026 collection introduced a new perspective, presenting couture-inspired looks reimagined for everyday wear. Junya transformed conventional materials into garments that felt both accessible and visually compelling, emphasizing wearability without sacrificing innovation. The collection highlighted his belief that true artistry exists within the ordinary objects we encounter daily, simply re-seen and reworked to push the boundaries of what clothing can be, shown directly through garments corresponding to note cards. In this approach, beauty emerges in every form, unrestricted by traditional definitions of a garment.