COS announces a limited-edition collection featuring the traditional Japanese resist-dying craft of shibori by Kyoto-based artisan Kazuki Tabata. Utilizing this time-honored technique, mesmerizing patterns emerge through binding, folding, and dyeing cloth in limitless ways.
Inspired by contemporary culture, the London-based fashion brand is known for elevated wardrobe pieces and innovative designs that are made to last. Dedicated to quality and sustainability, COS takes a bespoke approach to design, creating unique collections that combine function with timeless style. Material innovation and experimental design details are frequently revisited to include sartorial advances and ensure the considered use of recycled, renewed, or sustainably sourced fibers.
Based in Kyoto, Japan, Kazuki Tabata is one of the last traditional artisans dedicated to the time-honored craft of shibori. Binding, stitching, folding, twisting or compressing he employs specialized manual-resist techniques to intricately dye cloth, resulting in vibrant patterns and surfaces.
Kazuki studied sound and lighting at the Osaka School of Sound Arts at the Visual Arts College, however, his initial exposure to traditional craftsmanship occurred during a visit to his father’s workplace, and fueled by a determination to preserve age-old techniques, he found inspiration to embark on crafting shibori.
After dedicating extensive hours to hand-dyeing and refining crucial skills, Kazuki encountered Kyoto’s traditional Kyo Shikanoko Shibori – a unique artistry resembling fawn spots, known as the most challenging style of the technique due to the numerous sections of fabric tied in even and tight rows.
Challenged to re-produce the sekka snow flower shibori, a rare and delicate form, he embarked on a self-taught journey through trial and error, aspiring to pass down his knowledge to future generations. This marked the inception of his career, with Kyo Shikanoko Shibori becoming his main specialty. To this day, he expertly practices shibori in his workshop in the southwest of Kyoto, creating a diverse range of designs for his namesake company, Tabata Shibori.
The collaboration proudly celebrates the fusion of traditional craft and modern design through a 14-piece capsule that spans womenswear, menswear, and accessories. COS’ signature silhouettes are transformed through the craft of shibori: the result is a capsule with a unique blend of texture and flair. As art and fashion intertwine, soft tones of blue, orange and brown evoke a sense of timelessness and calm.
Designed for creative layering and adaptable styling, each garment captures the essence of summer dressing. Highlighting the collection’s dedication to intricate craftsmanship, the Sekka Shibori technique is used to create a delicate silk scarf with intricately crafted sekka snow crystals. Additionally, the Tesuji Shibori technique takes centre stage on garments made from more sustainable materials such as recycled nylon and TENCEL Lyocell.
The capsule launches online at cos.com and in select COS stores in June 2024.
