KENZO has announced an exciting collaboration with the French Judo Team. The renowned fashion house, under the creative direction of Nigo, has designed a special collection of kimono-inspired outfits for the athletes to wear during official events throughout the Summer Games.
The decision to outfit the French Judo Team in these unique garments is a nod to the sport’s Japanese origins. “The kimono is a garment that underwent various changes since its creation in Japan in the 8th century,” KENZO explained in a statement. “At its peak during the Edo era — characterized by economic growth, national stability and enjoyment of the arts — regardless of the wearer’s age, gender or social status, it is still worn during Japan’s significant events as a reminder of the country’s core culture.“
Over the years, the traditional kimono has evolved to meet the specific needs of judo practitioners. Thicker fabrics provide better grip and anchorage, while a longer, more voluminous silhouette allows for greater freedom of movement. These adaptations reflect the discipline, respect, and commitment inherent to the martial art – values that align closely with KENZO’s own philosophy.
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Nigo’s modern interpretation of the kimono for the French Judo Team exemplifies his signature “East-meets-West” aesthetic. By reimagining this traditional Japanese garment as a ceremonial uniform, he pays homage to the brand’s roots while celebrating the athletes’ achievements on a global stage. The custom designs first made their debut on the KENZO Fall/Winter 2023 runway, offering a glimpse of what’s to come in Paris next summer.
This collaboration is part of a larger initiative by KENZO’s parent company, LVMH, to support international sporting events and competitions. Both the French Olympic and Paralympic judo team members will proudly wear their KENZO kimonos at various official functions throughout the 2024 Games, showcasing the brand’s commitment to merging fashion, culture, and sport in a meaningful way.