Paris Fashion Week witnessed an unexpected revelation, marking the long-awaited return of the collaboration between Chitose Abe of Sacai and Moncler. This union, celebrating Moncler’s 70th anniversary, takes fashion into the distant future while honoring the rich heritage of the industry.
Chitose Abe, known for her avant-garde artistic approach, cast her creative vision toward the year 2093, giving birth to a collection made up of four distinct looks, each a bold fusion of technical layering. This collaboration transcends conventions, offering hybrid creations designed for both modern urbanites and intergalactic explorers.
The bichromatic color palette, dominated by shades of black and gray, dresses the fashion scene of this collaboration. Outdoor gear, such as essential down jackets, cozy fur vests, and pleated dresses, create a striking visual harmony. The balance between oversized suits and tone-on-tone outerwear, designed for an elegant drape over the shoulders, adds contemporary versatility to each piece.
The ingenuity of this collaboration lies in the details, where down jackets transform into backpacks, and coats and blazers unfold to reveal pleated dresses. These functional pieces become works of art in their own right.
Remo Ruffini, the visionary behind Moncler Genius, expresses his admiration for Japanese design principles, an influence clearly seen in past collaborations with Hiroshi Fujiwara, Comme des Garçons, and Junya Watanabe. This drive for exploration and pushing boundaries comes to life at the stunning “The Art of Genius” event during London Fashion Week, symbolizing Moncler’s ongoing commitment to groundbreaking collaborations.
When Chitose Abe was asked about the inspiration behind this collaboration, she mentioned an aesthetic that bridges the slope and après-ski, the “summit and the restaurant,” with pieces like a climbing backpack and a dress for an afternoon fondue.
The Sacai x Moncler collaboration, more than just a collection, celebrates Moncler’s rich history while boldly exploring the future of fashion. The highly anticipated pieces will be available in select boutiques worldwide on November 27, offering fashion enthusiasts a unique experience that blends Sacai’s avant-garde approach with Moncler’s timeless excellence.
Chitose Abe: A Visionary Who Dares to Be Authentic
Chitose Abe doesn’t do things halfway. Unless, of course, she’s cutting, assembling, and creating hybrid designs that are the signature of her 24-year-old Japanese brand, Sacai. “When it comes to collaborations, we want to work with someone authentic,” she explains. “For workwear, it’s Carhartt; for the best sneakers, it’s Nike; for the best down jackets, it’s Moncler.”
Abe’s philosophy highlights her dedication to partnering with iconic brands that share her commitment to quality and authenticity. This selective approach has enabled her to create truly unique collaborations, blending Sacai’s innovative designs with the established excellence of each partner brand.
This unique design philosophy by Abe is a testament to her commitment to authenticity, a principle that resonates deeply within the DNA of Sacai. In a fashion landscape filled with fleeting trends, Abe’s dedication to creating collaborations that reflect the true essence of each partner sets Sacai apart. In the realm of workwear, the choice is Carhartt, a symbol of rugged authenticity. The pursuit of the best sneakers leads to Nike’s iconic swoosh, embodying athletic power. And for the pinnacle of down jackets, the crown is unquestionably awarded to Moncler, a symbol of unmatched craftsmanship and sophistication.
In the hands of Chitose Abe, collaborations are not simply about mixing logos; they are about creating harmonious fusions that respect the heritage of each collaborator. As Sacai continues to push the boundaries of fashion, Abe’s discerning eye for authenticity ensures that every partnership is a masterpiece, a symphony of craftsmanship where every note resonates with the true essence of the collaborator in question.
