For his first collection as Kenzo’s Creative Director, Nigo honoured the French house’s past, while playing with current styles.

Japanese designer Kenzo Takada founded the “Kenzo” label in 1970 and he did so with a clear vision. He mixed traditional Asian and Japanese styles with European fashion. However, after he resigned as creative director in 1999, the brand lost its identity and receded into the backdrop of the fashion world.

DJ Nigo is currently the new creative director of the brand and he presented his first Kenzo Fall/Winter 2022 collection for the brand. And it did not disappoint at all. “I am proud to have been appointed Artistic Director of KENZO. I was born in the year that Todaka Kenzo san opened his first store in Paris. We both graduated from the same fashion school in Tokyo.” Said Nigo. “KENZO is the greatest challenge of my 30-year career, which I intend to achieve together with my team.” He added.

Taking place at Paris Fashion Week Men’s Fall/Winter 2022 season, the designer’s newest line for men and women introduced his vision for the label, which was “a meeting between Maison’s heritage and his contemporary codes,” as per a press release. The show itself took place at the Galerie Vivienne on Paris’ Right Bank.

The front row was studded with A-list invitees, including Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, Kanye West, Julia Fox, Pusha T, Tyler the Creator, among other artists.

The collection itself merged the artistic director’s upbringing and career with the heritage of Takada’s transcending cultural and conventional dress codes. It featured 60 looks that all brought Takada’s original vision into the present day. For instance, the signature poppy print reemerged on oversized shirts, jackets, and vests, as well as flowing maxi skirts and dresses.

However, the rest of the collection played into today’s trends, such as matching sets and featuring a pink, yellow, and green floral doodle print emblazoned on a jacket and pants. Likewise, the poppy motif appeared in a light blue shade on a navy jacket and pants. There was also an oversized styling, specifically voluminous knits, jackets, and coveralls.

In simply words, Nigo’s first collection for Kenzo was an incredible start for the new creative director. By honouring the house’s traditions and playing into the popular styles of the present, Nigo established a strong foundation for himself at this longstanding French house. Moreover, his A-list guest was perfect and, we can’t say that we are not excited to see what comes next at Kenzo.

Take a look at NIGO’s first Kenzo FW22 collection.