Comme des Garçons, renowned for its avant-garde, sculptural, and vibrantly colored creations, has taken a decidedly darker turn for Fall 2024 under Rei Kawakubo’s visionary guidance. Known for her ability to conjure garments that blur the lines between art and fashion, Kawakubo has long delighted the fashion world with her innovative and exuberant designs. Yet, this season, she ventures into new territory, embracing the raw, enigmatic allure of black leather.

Transitioning from the airy and whimsical fabrics of previous collections, Kawakubo’s latest work pivots to a material that evokes strength and edge. Leather, in its myriad forms and finishes, becomes the medium through which she explores new silhouettes and concepts. The collection features an array of leather-crafted pieces, from voluminous ballgowns that command attention to flared trousers and dramatic pannier-style skirts adorned with oversized leather bows, each piece showcasing the material’s versatile beauty.

The color palette is intentionally subdued, with washed greys and faded moss greens serving as subtle contrasts to the dominant jet-black leather, adding layers of depth and complexity to the designs. These choices reflect a matured, introspective phase of Kawakubo’s creative journey, emphasizing texture and form over color.

This collection is not just a departure from the expected; it is a bold reaffirmation of Rei Kawakubo’s status as a fearless innovator in fashion. By embracing the stark, sculptural potential of leather, she challenges our perceptions and invites us to see beauty in the shadows. As always, Comme des Garçons remains at the forefront of fashion’s evolution, and Kawakubo’s Fall 2024 collection is a compelling testament to the brand’s enduring influence and relevance.