Yohji Yamamoto on the runway Y-3 Fall 2009 New York
Yohji Yamamoto on the runway Y-3 Fall 2009 New York

NEW YORK, Feb 18, 2009 / FW/ — Taking a bow with a group of school age kids who introduced the new Y-3 children’s line, Yohji Yamamoto demonstrated once again why his Euro-Japanese aesthetics is on a class of its own when incorporated into the sports arena.

On a brightly painted square runway that was a work of art on its own right, the gravelly voice of Carole King singing ‘You’ve got a Friend’  filled Pier 40 as the first model came out wearing a snug fitting jacket, low-rise trousers, white shirt and black tie paired with the famous Adidas Y-3 sneakers.

Yet, those who were expecting just high end Adidas clothing mixed with Yohji Yamamoto’s signature style were surprised to see that the Japanese designer has truly created a different aesthetic for his collaborative effort with the sports company.

The iconic three stripes and the now familiar Y-3 were incorporated in the silhouettes not just as mere logos but part of the total look to the point that without it, the look will not be complete in the same way that a military uniform will be incomplete without the rank and insignia that went with it.

The looks are reminiscent of Antwerp; in fact, the inspiration, aside from the obvious iconic three stripes is a European urban area, which could anywhere in Western Europe. Black is the predominant color; layering is the key that begins with the shirt (either black or white), a jacket or blouson, then a cape.

And, as the audience was getting used to the rhythm of the show, Yohji Yamamoto changed the beat and sent out children to introduce the new Y-3 children’s line that follows the same aesthetics as the men’s and women’s collections.

For the finale, Carole King’s ‘I Feel the Earth Move’ was perfect with the model’s fast-paced parade and the kids walking more leisurely with their little feet as Yohji Yamamoto directs traffic for them to be able to take their proper bows to the press and photographers.

[MARI DAVIS]
Photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

Related Post:

New York Fashion Week Fall 2009

[nggallery id=181]

No Responses