Fendi, the renowned Italian fashion house, has embarked on an extraordinary collaboration with pioneering Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. The Fendi x Kengo Kuma collaboration unveils a groundbreaking collection that showcases the intersection of fashion, architecture, and traditional craftsmanship. With Kuma’s deep-rooted connection to nature and his expertise in raw materials, this collaboration brings a new dimension to Fendi’s iconic accessories.
A Celebration of Ancient Craftsmanship
Kengo Kuma’s architectural vision is deeply influenced by Japanese craftsmanship and traditions. In the Fendi x Kengo Kuma collection, this reverence for ancient techniques shines through. The accessories, including the Peekaboo, Baguette Soft Trunk, and Fendi Flow sneakers, are reimagined using traditional materials such as washi paper, woven bamboo, birch bark, and Tuscan olivewood. Each piece is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that both Fendi and Kuma hold dear.
Innovative Iterations
The Peekaboo bag, a beloved Fendi icon, undergoes a radical transformation under Kuma’s artistic touch. Its basket-shaped design resembles a fashionable toolbox, showcasing Kuma’s architectural flair. Crafted from raw materials, the bag exhibits an earthy and organic aesthetic that sets it apart from traditional designs.
The Baguette Soft Trunk, another iconic Fendi accessory, receives a contemporary update through Kuma’s vision. Sharp edges and a lighter shade flecked with wood chips add a touch of modernity, while still honoring the bag’s heritage and timeless appeal.
The Fendi Flow sneakers demonstrate Kuma’s ability to merge form and function. With their undulating lines, soft curves, and filaments resembling 3D-printed threads, these sneakers embody the sinewy branches found in Kuma’s architectural masterpieces. They represent a harmonious blend of architectural design and wearable art.
Nature as Inspiration
Nature has always been at the center of Kengo Kuma’s work, and it serves as a guiding force in the Fendi collaboration. By incorporating raw and natural materials, Kuma brings an organic and sustainable element to the collection. The use of washi paper, woven bamboo, and other natural elements creates a tactile and visually striking aesthetic that reflects the beauty of the natural world.
A Dialogue Between Italy and Japan
Fendi x Kengo Kuma represents a new artistic dialogue between Italy and Japan. Silvia Venturini Fendi, Fendi’s accessories and menswear creative director, notes the shared values of craftsmanship between the two cultures. This collaboration not only highlights the cultural exchange but also signifies the willingness of both Fendi and Kengo Kuma to push boundaries and explore innovative design concepts.
All images in this article are courtesy of Fendi.
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