Nigo's debut Kenzo collection hit the runway back in January, a clear declaration of his envisioned trajectory for the Japan-born brand: a union of the house's historic codes and creative director Nigo's contemporary streetwear tastes. Now, returning for Spring/Summer 2023, the label invites you to enroll in Kenzo University, where tasteful-yet-cool college kids study to earn degrees in Kenzo speak.
Models scaled the academic banner-trimmed catwalk in vibrant sweater vests, varsity jackets, and patchwork outerwear, suggesting a romance between prep-school cool and street sensibilities. The label’s take on collegiate dressing was further elevated by scholarly Kenzo branding and animated embroidered badges – a nod to the vibrancy and playful spirit inherent in the house's attitude and inspired by the 1980s' DC Brand Boom.
Classic Ivy League suiting got the kaleidoscope treatment via trippy stripes and checked prints, which happen to be mind-bending reinterpretations of Kenzo's famous patterns from Fall/Winter 1988 and Fall/Winter 1992. Derby shoes and Mary Janes completed the uniform, made unique with Kenzo-branded steel toes and contrasting soles.
All photos courtesy of Kenzo