COS x Kazuki Tabata: Traditional Craft Meets Modern Fashion

If you’re anything like us, always on the hunt for fashion pieces that go beyond the trends, then the COS x Kazuki Tabata collaboration is a must-see.
Building a timeless wardrobe means finding pieces that not only resist fleeting fads but also stand the test of time with their quality. These rare moments when fashion meets art are truly special. And that’s exactly what this limited summer collection from the Swedish brand COS, based in London, brings to the table.

COS x Kazuki Tabata: A Unique Capsule Collection

The COS x Kazuki Tabata collection covers womenswear, menswear, and accessories, transforming COS’s minimalist silhouettes with the art of Shibori. The collection of 14 stunning pieces is dominated by soft tones of blue, orange, and brown, evoking a sense of timelessness and calm. Designed for creative layering and original styling, each garment captures the essence of summer dressing. This capsule collection showcases the beauty and complexity of shibori, with each piece offering a distinctive blend of texture and flair.

The Art of Shibori: Binding, Folding, and Dyeing

Shibori is a time-honoured Japanese craft that involves binding, folding, stitching, twisting, or compressing cloth before dyeing it to create intricate patterns. Kazuki Tabata, one of the last traditional artisans of this craft, uses these manual-resist techniques to produce vibrant and unique designs.

About Kazuki Tabata: Preserving a Timeless Craft

Kazuki Tabata, based in Kyoto, Japan, is a master of the Shibori craft. His journey began at the Osaka School of Sound Arts at the Visual Arts College, but his passion for traditional craftsmanship was ignited during a visit to his father’s workplace. Determined to preserve these age-old techniques, Kazuki embarked on a self-taught journey to master shibori, particularly the challenging Kyo Shikanoko Shibori, known for its intricate and even patterns.

Kazuki’s expertise in the sekka snow flower shibori, a rare and delicate form, further cemented his reputation as a shibori artisan. Today, he continues to practice and innovate in his workshop in southwest Kyoto, creating a diverse range of designs for his company, Tabata Shibori.

A Celebration of Craft and Design

The COS x Kazuki Tabata collaboration is more than just a fashion collection; it is a celebration of traditional craftsmanship and modern design. By bringing the ancient art of shibori to a contemporary audience, COS and Kazuki Tabata highlight the beauty and significance of preserving traditional techniques while adapting them to modern aesthetics.

This collection not only showcases the unique patterns and textures of Shibori but also emphasizes the importance of sustainable fashion. With materials like recycled nylon and TENCELTM Lyocell, the collection underscores COS’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

The COS x Kazuki Tabata collection is available for a limited time. Each piece tells a story of tradition and innovation, making it a must-have for those who appreciate the art of fashion.

Images courtesy @COS