"JUNYA WATANABE COMME des GARÇONS" 2018AW Textured fringe knit sweater

"JUNYA WATANABE COMME des GARÇONS"

2018AW Sculptural fringed V-neck knit sweater

From JUNYA WATANABE COMME des GARÇONS, which continues to present new value in everyday wear through material research free from preconceived notions and a constructive approach to design, we would like to introduce an exceptional piece featuring beautiful material expression.

Built around a deep black, this piece creates a sculptural sense of depth despite its single-color palette by surrounding the irregular, fiber-like decorative detailing from the body all the way to the sleeves.

Predominantly composed of a richly textured knit made with 85% wool, the blended material—woven from nylon, rayon, Japanese paper, and polyester—makes it possible for fine luster and a dry, refined feel to coexist within a soft, napped surface. The long, hanging fringe-like decorations sway in accordance with the wearer’s movements, bringing the variations of black—its different depths—to the surface in a three-dimensional way.

The neckline is designed as a deep V-neck, adding a sharp sense of release that complements a highly decorative appearance, while ribbing at the hem and cuffs helps to keep the overall silhouette neat and refined. There is also a strong presence in the balance between the thick-bodied construction and the long sleeves, and the layered overlap of the fibers that continues not only across the front and back but also into the sleeves creates an abundant, non-uniform expression from every angle.

Since the item numbers JB-N008 and AD2018 noted on the inner tag align with the season codes, this allows us to identify the model as one released for the 2018 autumn/winter season. As an archive piece, it also offers the value of being something you can fully enjoy as a material-experimental expression in Junya Watanabe’s design. Along with the careful craftsmanship characteristic of Made in Japan, the approach that elevates a familiar form—wool knit—into a uniquely inspired texture clearly reflects the brand’s refined aesthetic sensibility.

The size is marked as M. With a straight, line-forward silhouette that still provides a comfortable amount of room, it is recommended not only for those who want to enjoy a design-forward knit as the main focus, but also for those who wish to express individuality through differences in texture centered around black. Though decorative, its muted color tone makes it easy to incorporate into everyday life, and the expression that comes to life through the wearer’s movements can be regarded as an added value unique to this piece.

For styling, pairing it with crisp wide slacks or a long skirt with a fluid drape will result in a mode-like look that accentuates the fringe’s dimensionality. If you let a white shirt or a lightweight turtleneck peek through from beneath the V-neck, the material contrast will come to life, adding depth to your autumn/winter layering as well.

This is an exceptional piece that lets you enjoy both Junya Watanabe’s distinctive curiosity about materials and the presence it carries as an archive. Please take this opportunity.