Nippon Couture

A masterful piece by Jun Takahashi, the Undercover Scab jeans which were part of the 'Scab' collection of SS03 were heavily based upon the regeneration and application of fabric to create a one-of-a-kind piece. This piece also cemented Taka's prowess as a designer and not only for creating outstanding designs but the fact that he pioneered techniques heavily used in today's day and age like deconstructing, patchwork and distressing. This was a very seminal piece of work from Jun Takahashi as it set the stage for several other brands, specifically modern brands such as Amiri, En Noir and several other denim and luxe-streetwear brands who have taken Jun's techniques and applied it to their pieces. Referring to the design itself, the jeans have some beautifully detailed patchwork that is hand stitched that transitions down the pant leg as well as the stitching of some roughly cut up fabric to create an overall amazing piece to have in one's arsenal. A great balanc...

SS01 Collection was named after 'Chaotic Discord' who were a punk rock band from Bristol, England. Again, Jun takes heavy influence from the graphics and style of clothing punk rock brands wear dating back to his days as a student of Bunka Fashion College in Tokyo. Rather than actually evoking punk rock vibes, Jun puts his play on classic tiger camo with functionality and illusion (unseen zipper pockets; shirt looks like one piece rather than a zip-up). Yet again a true testament to his legendary intuition and construction of pieces, Chaotic Discord also came along with some basic t-shirts with Jun's quirky graphics that make absolutely no sense yet immediately attain grail-status. 'Illusionary' zip up shirt Simple button-down p.s. great prices on the pieces; all below $200. Cha-ching! Camo Zip Shirt:   https://www.grailed.com/listings/1110490-Undercover-Chaotic-Discord-Camo-Zip-Shirt Camo Shirt:  https://www.grailed.com/listings/2366133-Undercover...

Jun's AW collection again effused a very deep meaning as all of is collections do as well as transcending the perception of the human body as simply something to be studied. Similar to his recent 'The Organs' small collection including a hoodie, t-shirt and coach jacket, Taka takes the simple human body and manipulates it to create an altogether different and interesting meaning, prevalent during the Renaissance period where the human body was intensely studied, taken apart and glorified. In this collection, he based his designs on the human anatomy with intricate structuring and detailing, as well as putting his own twist on a modern classic, the timeless leather jacket. In this piece, Taka adds more functionality with the inclusion of more zippers as well as a plaid inner, but the back part is what keeps it apart from the rest with a ribcage graphic, truly infusing classic and avant-garde elements, or in other words, the perfect Japanese fashion piece.  (Unfortunat...

Japan, as a fashion hub, is something that has produced some of the greatest designers and pieces but still manages to maintain its subtle demeanour. Undercover is one of those noted brands that has managed to remain accessible to a wide audience but still remains mysterious. No one knows the ins and outs of Japanese fashion. That is what makes it so unique and beautiful. And Undercover truly embodies that. Here I present to you a collection of Undercover's finest pieces from the man that is Jun Takahashi and an in-depth analysis and historical background of them, along with potential shopping links. Avant-gardism, punk and original technicalities all in one.

Jun Takahashi's AW 2005 collection effused gothic, archaic and intricate feelings to all who looked upon it. His collection, accurately named 'Arts & Crafts' were truly a manifestation of his design principles and brought to the fore his ability to manipulate fabrics and create them into an original, profound and statement piece. Techniques such as deconstructing, dying and patchwork were heavily implemented to formulate a very unique and profound aesthetic that adhered to his motto 'We make noise, not clothes'. This collection was a true embodiment of his design basis of punk, gothic and authentic streetwear that conveys a message to the wearer or anybody who takes a look at the piece. All in all, this was a true testament to Taka's design persona and cemented his status as a revolutionary in the fashion world. Runway picture of below piece An intense, vague and eccentric implementation of deconstruction, ruffling, iconography and avant-gardism. ...