Italian fashion house Fendi works in collaboration with Japanese architect Kengo Kuma to create a slew of accessories that nod to ancient Japanese craft techniques. It made its debut during the house's Spring/Summer 2024 menswear show during Pitti Uomo. The brand's Peekaboo bag, Flow sneakers, and Baguette Soft Trunk were reinterpreted with natural materials using waranshi and tree bark fibers.
Kengo Kuma talks about the project with Fendi, stating that "Nature and craft have always been at the centre of my work as an architect and a designer. When Fendi asked me to reflect on their bags and shoes, I thought of them like small architectural projects on a human scale. I have transformed some of Silvia Venturini Fendi's signature men's designs with traditional Japanese techniques and materials, showing our shared passion for nature, lightness, and innovative design."
Nature Material-Made Luxe Accessories
Kengo Kuma Presents New Sustainable Designs for Fendi
Trend Themes
1. Ancient Craft Techniques - Leveraging ancient craft techniques in fashion and design presents opportunities for unique and sustainable luxury products.
2. Natural Material Innovation - Exploring the use of natural materials like waranshi and tree bark fibers opens up possibilities for eco-friendly and distinctive product designs.
3. Cross-cultural Collaboration - Collaborations between fashion houses and architects from different cultures offer the chance to create innovative and culturally-rich collections.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Accessories - The fashion accessories industry can embrace the integration of traditional craft techniques and natural materials to create unique and eco-conscious products.
2. Luxury Fashion - Luxury fashion brands can explore cross-cultural collaborations with architects to bring new dimensions of design and craftsmanship to their collections.
3. Sustainable Design - The sustainable design industry can draw inspiration from the integration of ancient techniques and natural materials to create innovative and environmentally friendly products.