Kenzo partners with French judo team

Kenzo has teamed up with the French judo team ahead of their competitions in Paris this summer. As part of the partnership, artistic director Nigo has designed a special outfit inspired by the Japanese origins of the sport.

Notably, the team will wear the same kimono-inspired outfit that was featured during the brand's Fall/Winter 2023 show. French athletes will be wearing Kenzo's Kimono suit on several official occasions this summer.

Nigo’s reimagined kimono for the French judo team encapsulates the traditional Japanese roots that inspire his creative vision for Kenzo. This ceremonial and tailored garment represents an aesthetic that fuses East and West, blending traditional Japanese design with contemporary Western fashion.

The kimono, a garment with a rich history dating back to the 8th century in Japan, reached its peak during the Edo era, a period marked by economic growth, national stability, and the flourishing of the arts. Today, it is still worn during important events in Japan as a reminder of the country's core culture.

In the realm of judo, the kimono has evolved to enhance performance, with changes in length, volume and thickness of the fabric to improve freedom of movement and grip. This evolution embodies discipline, respect and commitment, values ​​that resonate with Kenzo.