FENDI
Kengo Kuma reintreprets the Italian brand with japanese paper, woven bamboo & birch bark
paper, bamboo & birch bark
In an extraordinary blend of architecture and fashion, Kengo Kuma and FENDI join forces for the Spring/Summer 2024 menswear show, resulting in a groundbreaking collaboration. Unveiling his innovative interpretations of FENDI's iconic Peekaboo, Baguette Soft Trunk, and FENDI Flow sneakers, Kuma constructs these fashion pieces using traditional materials such as washi paper, woven bamboo, birch bark, and Tuscan olivewood. Embracing his deep respect for ancient Japanese craftsmanship and the raw beauty of natural elements, Kuma's architectural vision breathes life into bags and sneakers that epitomize artistry and innovation.
Silvia Venturini Fendi, the Artistic Director of FENDI, praises Kuma as one of the pioneers in incorporating nature into both the interior and exterior aspects of architecture. She emphasizes the significance of his approach, stating, "He was one of the first to understand the importance of building nature into architecture both inside and out." Kengo Kuma further echoes this sentiment, expressing that nature and craftsmanship have always been central to his work as an architect and designer. Reflecting on FENDI's request to reimagine their bags and shoes, Kuma perceives them as miniature architectural projects on a human scale, showcasing his unique perspective.
Japanese craftsmanship
The stage is set at the new FENDI Factory, nestled amidst the picturesque Tuscan hills in Florence. The SS24 runway show takes place within the very heart of FENDI's production and manufacturing house, where skilled artisans diligently carry out their craft. It is here that 35 to 40 percent of the Maison's leather goods will be crafted, infusing the runway with an atmosphere of creativity and craftsmanship. As Kengo Kuma's collection graces the runway, workwear aesthetics become omnipresent, emanating an aura of gritty textures and laid-back styles fashioned from natural and raw materials.
Kuma's visionary design transforms the single-handled FENDI Peekaboo into a fashionable toolbox, featuring a basket-shaped design that evokes the essence of earthly materials. The handbag's weathered appearance adds to its allure. The Baguette version, on the other hand, boasts sharper edges and a lighter shade embellished with delicate wood chips, exuding an air of sophistication. Kuma's sneaker collection showcases undulating lines and soft curves, occasionally enhanced by intricate filaments that resemble 3D-printed threads encircling the base of the shoes. These sinuous branches evoke the architectural splendor found in Kuma's sculptural tower in Vancouver and his archaeological park in Albania, exemplifying his distinctive design language.
The collaboration between Kengo Kuma and FENDI for the SS24 menswear collection transcends boundaries, merging architecture and fashion seamlessly. The result is a captivating fusion of craftsmanship, natural materials, and innovative design that captivates the senses and embodies the spirit of contemporary creativity.
