When you first hear the name Comme des Garcons, it might sound unfamiliar or even intimidating. However, once you understand its significance in the fashion world, it becomes clear why the brand has such a strong following. Comme des Garcons, often abbreviated as CDG, is a Japanese fashion label that has built its reputation on creating unique, innovative, and sometimes avant-garde designs. Founded by Rei Kawakubo in 1969, it has since become a cornerstone of modern fashion. This guide is designed for those who are new to the brand and want to understand what makes Comme des Garcons so special and how to incorporate its pieces into your wardrobe.
What is Comme des Garcons?
Comme des Garcons is a fashion label that stands out for its approach to design. The name itself, which translates to “like boys” in French, reflects the brand’s rejection of traditional gender norms in fashion. Rei Kawakubo, the designer behind the brand, started officialcommedesgarcons.us with a vision to challenge the conventional concepts of beauty and style. Over the years, the label has grown from a small boutique in Tokyo to a global fashion powerhouse. Today, Comme des Garcons is known for its creative and often unconventional approach to fashion, blending art, culture, and innovation.
The Philosophy Behind the Brand
At the heart of Comme des Garcons is a philosophy of innovation and rebellion. Rei Kawakubo’s designs often challenge traditional ideas about clothing, using unusual shapes, unexpected cuts, and asymmetry to create something fresh and bold. Unlike many fashion houses that follow trends, Comme des Garcons tends to set its own path. The brand doesn’t just design clothing; it creates pieces that make a statement. Whether it’s through minimalist designs or complex, avant-garde creations, Comme des Garcons aims to push boundaries and offer something new and thought-provoking.
Key Characteristics of Comme des Garcons Style
Comme des Garcons style is unique, and there are a few key characteristics that define its collections. First, the brand is known for its use of unconventional shapes. Clothes from Comme des Garcons often feature irregular silhouettes, oversized fits, and asymmetrical cuts that break away from the traditional notion of what clothing should look like. Another defining feature is the use of deconstruction, where garments are purposefully torn apart or rearranged to create a sense of rawness and imperfection. This attention to detail and willingness to experiment with design is what makes Comme des Garcons stand out.
Understanding Comme des Garcons Collections
Comme des Garcons releases several different collections each year, each with its own unique theme and aesthetic. One of the most well-known collections is Comme des Garcons Homme, which focuses on menswear. This line combines casual elements with tailored pieces, often blending street style with high fashion. Another popular line is Comme des Garcons Comme des Garcons, which features avant-garde designs that blur the lines between fashion and art. Each collection offers something different, but they all share the common thread of innovation and creativity.
Why Comme des Garcons is So Expensive
Comme des Garcons is often associated with high prices, and this can be a point of confusion for those new to the brand. The cost of the pieces is due to several factors. First, Comme des Garcons is known for its high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The brand doesn’t mass-produce its garments, and each piece is carefully designed and constructed. Additionally, Comme des Garcons is a luxury brand, and as such, it commands higher prices for its exclusivity and design innovation. The uniqueness of its collections, often incorporating limited-run items and one-of-a-kind designs, also contributes to the higher cost.
How to Identify Authentic Comme des Garcons Pieces
As Comme des Garcons has grown in popularity, the brand has become a target for counterfeiters. To make sure you’re buying an authentic piece, there are a few things to look for. First, check the label. Authentic Comme des Garcons items will always feature a well-stitched, high-quality label with the brand’s logo clearly printed. Next, examine the craftsmanship. Comme des Garcons is known for its attention to detail, so any garment that feels poorly made or lacks attention to detail should be questioned. Finally, make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller. High-end department stores, established boutiques, and trusted online platforms are generally safe places to purchase authentic Comme des Garcons pieces.
How to Style Comme des Garcons Pieces
Styling Comme des Garcons can be a fun and creative process, as the brand’s designs are meant to stand out and make a statement. For beginners, start with a simple piece, like a classic Comme des Garcons t-shirt or a jacket. These can easily be paired with jeans or tailored trousers for a balanced look. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can layer more bold pieces like oversized coats or deconstructed garments. Remember, Comme des Garcons is all about breaking the rules, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and combinations. The key to pulling off Comme des Garcons is confidence and a willingness to embrace individuality.
Comme des Garcons Collaborations
Over the years, Comme des Garcons has collaborated with several major brands and artists, bringing its unique style to a wider audience. Some of the most famous collaborations include those with Nike, Converse, and Louis Vuitton. These partnerships often result in limited-edition collections that combine Comme des Garcons’ avant-garde aesthetic with the practicality and familiarity of more mainstream brands. If you’re just starting with Comme des Garcons, these collaborations can be a great entry point. They offer a mix of wearable, everyday items with a touch of Comme des Garcons’ signature style.
Where to Shop for Comme des Garcons
Finding Comme des Garcons pieces can be a bit challenging, especially for beginners. The brand is sold in high-end department stores like Dover Street Market and Barneys, as well as at select boutiques around the world. Online platforms like SSENSE and Farfetch also carry a wide range of Comme des Garcons items. When shopping for the brand, it’s important to make sure you’re purchasing from an authorized retailer or a trusted second-hand marketplace to avoid counterfeit items. While Comme des Garcons is not as widely available as other brands, its exclusivity only adds to the allure of owning a piece.
How to Build a Comme des Garcons Wardrobe
Building a wardrobe around Comme des Garcons is about more than just buying a few pieces. It’s about creating a cohesive collection of items that reflect the brand’s unique philosophy and your personal style. Start with a few classic pieces, such as a t-shirt, a hoodie, or a pair of trousers, and build from there. Over time, you can add more statement pieces, like a dramatic coat or a pair of sneakers from one of their collaborations. Remember, Comme des Garcons is about individuality, so take your time to choose pieces that reflect who you are and what you want to express through fashion.
Conclusion
Comme des Garcons is a brand that may seem intimidating at first, but once you understand its philosophy and unique style, it becomes clear why it’s so influential in the fashion world. Whether you’re looking for avant-garde designs or classic pieces with a twist, Comme des Garcons offers something for everyone. As you start to incorporate the brand into your wardrobe, remember to embrace your personal style and experiment with different looks. Fashion is meant to be fun, and Comme des Garcons encourages us to think outside the box and express ourselves in new and exciting ways.
