Comme des Garçons is a fashion brand founded by Rei Kawakubo in 1969. The brand is known for its unique and unconventional designs, which have inspired many. Over the years, Comme des Garçons has influenced fashion in many countries, including the UK. British street style, in particular, was strongly impacted by the brand’s bold approach. With its avant-garde designs, Comme des Garçons pushed the boundaries of what was considered fashionable. The brand became known for making clothing that wasn’t just functional but also artistic. As a result, its impact on British street style is still felt today. This article explores how Comme des Garçons changed the face of street fashion in the UK.
Breaking Fashion Norms
Before Comme des Garçons, British street style was influenced by traditional fashion trends. However, the brand’s arrival introduced a new perspective. Comme des Garçons focused on creating pieces that challenged conventional clothing designs. Its use of unusual shapes, asymmetry, and unexpected materials was revolutionary. British street style began to incorporate these daring elements, breaking away from the norm. Fashion lovers in the UK were drawn to the brand’s anti-fashion attitude. Instead of following trends, Comme des Garçons encouraged people to embrace their individuality. This shift allowed for more creativity in how people expressed themselves through fashion.
Avant-Garde Designs and Impact
Comme des Garçons is known for its avant-garde designs that push boundaries. The brand’s clothes often feature abstract shapes, oversized silhouettes, and experimental cuts. These design choices were a stark contrast to the more traditional fashion at the time. British street style was significantly influenced by these bold statements. People started wearing clothing that was more artistic and less focused on practical function. The UK fashion scene began to embrace the idea that fashion could be an art form. Designers in the UK were inspired by Comme des Garçons to experiment with new forms and materials. This change in perspective encouraged a more daring approach to everyday wear.
Influence on British Designers
Comme des Garçons did not only impact street style in the UK, but it also influenced British designers. Many British fashion designers looked to the brand for inspiration. They admired Rei Kawakubo’s ability to mix art with clothing, creating something unique. The brand encouraged designers to think outside of the box and challenge design traditions. British fashion designers began to experiment with more abstract, unconventional pieces. The idea of creating clothing that tells a story became more important. As a result, the UK fashion scene grew more diverse and creative. Designers felt free to express their individuality and break fashion rules.
Shifting Street Style Attitudes
Prior to Comme des Garçons’ influence, British street style was often based on practical and casual wear. People wore clothes that were functional and easy to wear on the streets. However, Comme des Garçons encouraged a shift toward more experimental and expressive street fashion. The brand showed that fashion didn’t have to be practical to be stylish. British street style began to embrace more daring and unique outfits. Fashion became about expressing personal creativity rather than simply following trends. People were more willing to wear oversized jackets, asymmetrical dresses, and unusual footwear. Comme des Garçons’ influence helped make British street style more bold and diverse.
Comme des Garçons and Youth Culture
The youth culture in the UK was particularly influenced by Comme des Garçons. Young people in the UK are often at the forefront of new fashion movements, and the brand quickly gained their attention. The brand’s designs resonated with young people who wanted to challenge societal norms. They embraced the idea of rejecting traditional fashion and wearing clothes that felt more personal. Comme des Garçons offered a way for youth to express rebellion and creativity through clothing. This connection to youth culture made the brand a significant part of British street style. The brand’s influence in the UK continues to grow, especially among younger generations.
Comme des Garçons in the UK Today
Today, Comme des Garçons continues to influence British street style. Its designs can be seen in many parts of the UK, from London’s fashion districts to everyday streetwear. The brand’s ability to blend art and fashion has become a major part of UK street fashion. Many people in the UK continue to wear Comme des Garçons to make bold fashion statements. The brand’s impact on British street style is undeniable, as it has redefined how people view fashion. It has shown that style can be about more than just following trends—it can be about self-expression and creativity. As long as Comme des Garçons continues to challenge the norms, its influence on British street style will remain strong.