KOZABURO Presents Unique Blend of Past and Future Styles at New York Fashion Week
NEW YORK – KOZABURO, the renowned clothing brand under the management of Kozaburo Akasaka, wowed audiences at New York Fashion Week with its remarkable 2024 spring and summer series show. The collection showcased an intriguing combination of past and future styles, leaving fashion enthusiasts in awe.
The brand’s design concept draws deep inspiration from Buddhism and seeks to promote the idea of harmonious integration with nature. Models graced the runway wearing vibrant Trucker Jackets and trousers reminiscent of the 1970s. Notably, the jeans featured a circular swirl design, crafted using the traditional Japanese Sakiori weaving technology. The collection also offered tie shirts with soft rounded hems, adding an elegant touch to the overall look.
Describing the inspiration behind the collection, Akasaka Kozaburo explained, “These characters represent that they come from a place called ‘The Land of the Setting Sun.’ This is my future—an imaginary land bridging the East and the West, sharing spirituality and philosophy.”
The accessories featured in the show, including briefcases, sunglasses, and woven gloves, were meticulously designed by Eddie Yu and Iori Yamaki of Huiben Shop. These accessories perfectly reflected the unique characteristics of the KOZABURO brand. Eddie Yu stated, “KOZABURO embodies the spirit of a free-roaming cowboy or a spiritual monk. It is fascinating to apply these attitudes and emotions to everyday environments.” As for footwear, the models were seen sporting ASICS sneakers or leather boots, simulating the off-duty style of businesspeople, cultural enthusiasts, and tourists, effectively capturing the brand’s vast utopian style.
This season, the brand incorporated futuristic-style Cycora® material into their clothing. This recycled material, developed by Ambercycle through dismantling clothing and textiles, showcased the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Shay Sethi, the founder of Ambercycle, highlighted the significance of this technology, stating that it not only promotes eco-consciousness but also aligns with KOZABURO’s preference for the cycle of death and rebirth.
As the show concluded, guests were left mesmerized by a captivating display on the catwalk floor. A swirling pebble structure and dragon scales made of textiles remained, serving as a reminder of KOZABURO’s underlying philosophy. Kyle Acma, Brand Assistant, added, “Originally, the ‘snake-like creature’ was supposed to ‘consume’ itself, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. The pebbles represent a Zen garden, making these two pieces represent not only the brand but also the designer himself.”
KOZABURO continues to push boundaries in the fashion industry, introducing innovative designs that blend elements from both the past and the future. This year’s show at New York Fashion Week reinforced their position as a unique and influential brand, promoted by their fusion of spirituality, philosophy, and sustainable fashion.