Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garcons has long been known as one of the fashion industry’s leading innovators. Now the Japanese designer has launched a new temporary “guerrilla” brand conceived to counteract the economic downturn (the collection is supposed to last as long as the recession lasts). It’s called ‘Black Comme des Garcons’. The Black line just landed in two Tokyo department stores, and sales are already 50 percent higher than expected. This is a big relief, considering that since 2004, Comme des Garcons has opened and closed 31 stores.
In addition to the lower price points, department stores are reportedly loving the “speed merchandising” strategy that the collection features. New styles will arrive approximately every six weeks.
Given the interest and the fact that sales are higher than expected, it is not surprising that the label may launch men’s Black styles as well.
Images courtesy of the Fashion Spot forums.