What is the local reception of Japanese creators that Pitti is focusing on?

In particular, this time, Fumito Maruryu of FUMITO GUNRYU was invited as guest designer from Japan, and his presentation of his first collection since leaving COMME des GARÇONS was a big topic.

Many buyers and press traveled to Italy from Japan, but due to the 10:00 a.m. start on the second day, the show venue being in a suburban residential area far from the main venue, and the fact that COS, another official event, was starting at 11:00 a.m. on the same day, buyers and press were spread out. The collection itself lived up to expectations as a designer, with Pitti Uomo's marketing team having had their eye on Ganryu for some time. It was a high-level show, with a unique interpretation of the functionality of sports gear and high-tech materials, translated into global men's fashion. However, it's hard to deny that the attendance figures were a bit disappointing.

Fumito Ganryu 2019 Spring/Summer Collection
Similarly, in a show held in partnership with the Japan Fashion Week Organization (JFW), designer Shinpei Yamagishi's Bed J.W. Ford presented its collection on the third day at the former Leopolda Station. Incorporating Japanese synthetic materials into the details of equestrian wear, the brand showed signs of growing into a representative brand of Tokyo's young designer scene, but the seats in the spacious venue were not filled. Nevertheless, the show was highly praised by the enthusiastic local press and buyers who attended, so it must be said that how to increase its buzz and recognition lies not with the designers but with the organizers.

Bedford Spring/Summer 2019 Collection

Also attracting attention was a music event held in Tokyo to commemorate the launch of "MONCLER GENIUS," kicking off the event with a performance by Hiroshi Fujiwara. There had been rumors in advance that Hiroshi Fujiwara would be performing live, and Italians on-site were surprised by his name recognition, asking, "Is Hiroshi Fujiwara really coming?" However, instead of a live performance, it was a club-style party. 7 Moncler Fragment Hiroshi Fujiwara products were on display at the club venue, and DJs like Steve Aoki appeared as guests, livening up the venue, but Hiroshi Fujiwara himself did not perform.


Moncler Genius Launch Event
© PITTI IMMAGINE

Text: Tatsuya Noda