On September 23rd, ATSUSHI NAKASHIMA held a show in Milan. The venue was the Royal Palace Museum in the heart of Milan. For centuries, it served as the seat of the Milanese government, and today it's a renowned historical site, home to many art treasures collected from across Italy.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Japan, and Nakajima approached the design process with this in mind. Just before the show, he smiled and said, "I've got a surprise in store."

This season's theme is "MORPHING," and the collection notes state, "One object transforms into another, complementing and completing the piece. Transformation and change." The first look featured a coat that combined a trench coat and a denim coat, generating a shape that was halfway between the two, showcasing the idea of "combination." The polka dot pattern takes on a new look through the use of different materials, while the block check creates a noise-like effect through a technique called "cut jacquard," which intentionally leaves some threads exposed and unwoven. Nakajima's unique ideas shine through even in basic patterns. For the final look, two models appeared side by side, creating a Japanese flag with two coats. Just when it seemed the full surprise was about to unfold, the Italian flag appeared on their backs as they turned down the runway, drawing thunderous applause for the fitting conclusion to the show celebrating 150 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. Actress Sumire then took to the runway, showcasing a catwalk that rivaled that of the foreign models. The background music, composed in collaboration with Kinki Kids' Tsuyoshi Domoto, was a delicate piece incorporating Japanese elements, reverberating throughout the historic Italian Palazzo Reale. Atsushi Nakashima presented highly artistic pieces that elevated classic styles to modern levels. Unique ideas born from mixed cultures are beginning to emerge in Milan. This will be Nakajima's last time participating in the Milan Collection with support from the DHL program, but he has his sights set on the world and plans to continue holding shows in Milan. Believing in his powerful words, "There is meaning in continuing," we look forward to seeing him again next season.