Kenzo merges nostalgia and urban edge in stunning Paris Fashion Week collection

In January 2025, Paris Fashion Week showcased a remarkable display of creativity and innovation from two Japanese fashion powerhouses, Kenzo and Sacai. Kenzo's new collection, revealed on Friday, captivated the audience with a vibrant mix of nostalgia and urban influences, designed under the leadership of Nigo, alongside collaborator graffiti artist Futura. The show emphasized creative partnerships that bridged cultural influences from the past and present, particularly highlighting a fusion of Tokyo's fashion heritage with elements of New York street culture. Attendees noted the completion of the collection through bold patterns and thoughtful craftsmanship, while the atmosphere was charged with energy from fashion and music luminaries attending the event. Kenzo's lineup prominently featured reimagined archival themes reflecting the brand's legacy, showcased on oversized bombers, wide-leg trousers, and sharply tailored jackets. The creative pairing of Futura's iconic atom logo with Kenzo's floral designs led to pieces that were both striking and diverse. Several innovative elements emerged in the collection, such as train motifs from the late 1990s represented on contemporary workwear pieces. This collections recognized Kenzo's desire to modernize its past offerings while retaining a connection to the brand's roots. Also at Paris Fashion Week, Sacai captured attention with a Sunday show inspired by Maurice Sendak's classic children's book “Where the Wild Things Are.” The collection presented imaginative pieces that fostered a sense of childhood wonder while upholding a commitment to cutting-edge design. Chitose Abe's vision layered beastly textures into functional olive suits, oversized scarves, and collaborative knitwear, focusing on a balance of whimsy and practicality. The use of shaggy faux pelts and faux fur accents added various degrees of boldness to skirts and coats, showcasing an adventurous spirit reminiscent of untamed creatures. Sacai emphasized the playful nature of childhood memories while incorporating modern accessories to complete the contemporary outdoor aesthetic. Both Kenzo and Sacai reaffirmed Paris Fashion Week as a critical platform for artistic expression and nostalgia through innovative design. Moving forward, attendees are eager to see how these traditions and influences develop in future collections, and what other aspirations these designers have for continued fusion of the past and contemporary fashion. The impact of this year’s showcase may resonate within the fashion industry for years to come, as traditional boundaries meld and new conversations emerge around collective memory, creativity, and the celebration of individual heritage.