Comme des Garçons (CDG) is more than just a fashion brand—it’s an avant-garde movement that has challenged conventional design since its inception. Founded in 1969 by Rei Kawakubo, the Japanese label is known for its unconventional silhouettes, deconstructed tailoring, and artistic approach to clothing. CDG has redefined the boundaries of fashion from Paris runways to streetwear collaborations.
The Vision of Rei Kawakubo
At the heart of Comme des Garcons is Rei Kawakubo, a designer who rejects traditional fashion norms. Unlike many designers who focus on trends or luxury aesthetics, Kawakubo embraces imperfection, asymmetry, and the concept of “anti-fashion.” Her designs often feature:
- Deconstructed tailoring – garments with unfinished hems, exposed seams, and irregular shapes.
- Dark and monochrome palettes – particularly black, which symbolizes rebellion and strength.
- Oversized, avant-garde silhouettes – challenging the idea of traditional proportions.
Her philosophy isn’t just about clothes—it’s about artistic expression, questioning beauty standards, and redefining how fashion interacts with the body.
Comme des Garçons’ Impact on Fashion
Since its first Paris Fashion Week show in 1981, CDG has consistently disrupted the industry with bold, thought-provoking collections. Some key milestones include:
- 1981 Paris Debut: The collection, filled with dark, oversized, and distressed clothing, was controversial at the time, earning the nickname “Hiroshima chic” for its raw, post-apocalyptic aesthetic.
- Playful Sub-brands: The launch of Comme des Garçons PLAY introduced a more casual, street-friendly aesthetic, featuring the iconic heart logo with eyes, designed by Polish artist Filip Pagowski.
- Collaborations with Nike, Converse, and Supreme: CDG has bridged high fashion with streetwear, creating some of the most sought-after sneakers and apparel.
- Met Gala Influence: Kawakubo was one of the few designers to have a solo exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (2017’s Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art of the In-Between).
