History of Comme des Garçons and Rei Kawakubo
The Beginning of an Avant-Garde Vision
Rei Kawakubo, the founder of Comme des Garçons, is one of the most influential figures in the history of modern fashion. Born in Tokyo in 1942, she studied art and literature before working in advertising. Her transition into fashion wasn’t planned, but it became the foundation for one of the most revolutionary labels in the industry.
Founding Comme des Garçons
Comme des Garçons was officially founded in 1969. The name translates from French to “like the boys,” reflecting Kawakubo’s early focus on androgynous style and minimalism. Initially, the brand sold only women’s clothing and gained attention in Japan for its nontraditional aesthetics.
Disrupting Paris Fashion Week in 1981
The international breakthrough came in 1981 when Comme des Garçons debuted in Paris. Kawakubo’s collection featured distressed fabrics, asymmetrical cuts, and a monochrome palette dominated by black. Critics were polarized, some calling it “Hiroshima chic,” but it was clear a new voice had entered the fashion world.
Challenging Beauty Norms
Kawakubo never followed trends. She actively rejected them. Her designs focused on form over fit, and many pieces concealed rather than revealed the body. This anti-fashion approach challenged Western beauty standards and pushed fashion closer to art.
The Rise of CDG’s Sub-Labels
As the brand grew, Kawakubo launched several sub-labels: Comme des Garçons Homme, PLAY, BLACK, SHIRT, and more. Each line served a different audience while keeping the spirit of innovation alive. PLAY, in particular, with its heart-with-eyes logo, became globally iconic.
PLAY and Global Popularity
Comme des Garçons PLAY launched in 2002 and quickly became the most commercially successful line. The playful logo created by Filip Pagowski made it a hit among fashion fans who wanted a more casual, everyday way to wear CDG.
Comme des Garçons and Artistic Expression
Kawakubo treats fashion as an art form. Her collections are often concept-driven, with themes like distortion, war, and identity. Shows aren’t just runways—they’re performances. Her Met Gala exhibit in 2017, “The Art of the In-Between,” cemented her status as a true innovator.
Dover Street Market: A Retail Revolution
In addition to design, Kawakubo reinvented the retail experience with Dover Street Market. These concept stores bring together Comme des Garçons collections and collaborations with other designers in a curated space that feels more like a gallery than a shop.
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
Comme des Garçons has collaborated with global brands like Nike, Converse, Supreme, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. These partnerships have extended the brand’s reach while maintaining its unique identity, proving Kawakubo’s work transcends trends and time.
Maintaining Independence
Rei Kawakubo has always emphasized creative freedom. Unlike many fashion houses absorbed by large corporations, Comme des Garçons remains independently owned. This autonomy has allowed Kawakubo to maintain her vision without compromise.
Legacy in Fashion Education
Through her work and mentorship of designers like Junya Watanabe and Kei Ninomiya, Kawakubo has nurtured new talent and shaped the future of fashion. Her legacy goes beyond garments—it’s embedded in the mindset of modern design.
Where Comme des Garçons Stands Today
Today, Comme des Garçons remains one of the most respected and daring labels in fashion. Its ability to evolve without losing its core values continues to attract loyal followers, fashion collectors, and critics alike.
How to Shop Comme des Garçons Online
If you’re interested in exploring authentic Comme des Garçons collections,
visit comedesgarcons.shop
This online store features a curated range of PLAY, Homme Plus, BLACK, and more—perfect for newcomers and longtime fans.
Customer FAQs
Who is Rei Kawakubo?
Rei Kawakubo is the founder and creative force behind Comme des Garçons. Known for her avant-garde style, she is one of the most respected designers in the fashion industry.
When was Comme des Garçons founded?
The brand was founded in 1969 in Tokyo and made its Paris Fashion Week debut in 1981, which changed the direction of modern fashion.
Is Comme des Garçons PLAY part of the mainline?
PLAY is a sub-label of CDG that offers more casual and accessible designs, including the heart-with-eyes logo. It maintains the spirit of the brand while being more wearable.
Where can I buy real Comme des Garçons online?
You can shop genuine collections at comedesgarcons.shop where only authentic CDG pieces are sold.
What makes Comme des Garçons different from other fashion brands?
CDG stands out for its rejection of conventional fashion norms, its conceptual designs, and its fusion of art and clothing, all driven by Rei Kawakubo’s fearless vision.