3.11.2015

Beyond Bowie

David Bowie in a 1973 Kansai Yamamoto striped jumpsuit 1980s Kansai Yamamoto graphic sweater

If the internet is your only source of information, one would assume that Japanese designer, Kansai Yamamoto designed some costumes for David Bowie, fell into a decade-long slumber ala Sleeping Beauty, designed some sweaters, retired + then reemerged as Lady Gaga's new couturier. The truth, while far less dramatic, is that Kansai Yamamoto has had a steady career of amazing work.


1971 Kansai Yamamoto ensembles Vogue magazine
1971 Kansai Yamamoto ensembles, Vogue

His most influential work IS his work from the early 70s (Bowie costumes included) where he burst on the fashion scene with reckless abandon + experimentation (see the above spread from Vogue). That sense of experimentation, especially with presenting traditional Asian elements in a contemporary sense is what has defined his career.


Fall Winter 1983 1984 Kansai Yamamoto runway show
F/W 1983/84 Kansai Yamamoto runway show

1983 1984 Kansai Yamamoto colorblock neoprene avant garde jacket
1983 1984 Kansai Yamamoto colorblock neoprene avant garde jacket
1983 1984 Kansai Yamamoto colorblock neoprene avant garde jacket
1983 1984 Kansai Yamamoto colorblock neoprene avant garde jacket

Vintage Kansai items are nearly impossible to find so we couldn't believe it when we came across this little gem! Amazing vintage Kansai Yamamoto neoprene and cotton jacket, circa F/W 83/84. Such an amazing find!

Fun, jewel-toned color blocked neoprene body features asymmetric snap front, exaggerated slouchy shoulders, nipped waist and asymmetric peplum. Of course the best part is by far the standing purple collar that can also be worn folded down to show the navy blue lining. Slouchy cotton sweatshirt-like mustard sleeves.


Available online at http://www.bustownmodern.com.

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