ISSEY MIYAKE and UNITED NUDE, the brand created by Rem D. Koolhaas, have launched a new shoe project, "ISSEY MIYAKE x UN." The "ROCK" sandal (55,000 yen) was unveiled for the Spring/Summer 2017 collection. "ISSEY MIYAKE x UN" is a collaborative project between ISSEY MIYAKE and UNITED NUDE, who treat shoes like architectural structures and create shoes incorporating cutting-edge materials and techniques. Exploring the possibilities of future manufacturing, the project creates highly original items based on the concepts of points, lines, and surfaces. The Spring/Summer 2017 collection model, "ROCK," is based on the concept of "structure" and features a dynamic, architectural heel design that appears carved out of a block of rock. It is available in six colors: white, black, pink, beige, yellow, and green. Regarding this collaboration, Issey Miyake designer Yoshiyuki Miyamae commented, "Issey Miyake's ideas of surprise and humor are complemented by Rem's expertise in structural mechanics, a field he excels at as both a designer and architect. Our mutual passion for craftsmanship has inspired us to embark on the challenge of creating shoes like no other. We hope to deliver shoes that everyone will want to wear and that will brighten the mood of the day." United Nude Creative Director Rem D. Koolhaas added, "I visited their Tokyo office to see their work and was amazed by what I saw. Issey Miyake is one of the few brands in the fashion world that is highly creative and develops through long-term research and development, rather than seasonal development. Developing materials using innovative new techniques takes time. However, Issey Miyake's approach to clothing design is a model for the entire industry, and I believe that this approach is what creates timeless designs that are loved by everyone." "ROCK" is scheduled to be released in early March.