"ISSEY MIYAKE" 98SS Cotton shrunken tailored jacket

Creating something unprecedented for the comfort of people's daily lives, blending innovation and everyday life, not just one or the other
From ISSEY MIYAKE, which pursues a manufacturing philosophy that does not compromise on two things to the utmost, we introduce a rare archive piece.

This piece's charm lies in its distinctive processing that makes black not just a color but an expression of the fabric's "face."

What first attracts attention is the textured surface created by a strong shrink processing on 100% cotton fabric, which retains the "correctness" of a smooth jacket while playing with how light is reflected, creating depth. When touched, it feels dry, firm, and lightweight, and because it does not easily cling to the skin, it is designed to create a sense of space that seems to contain air the moment it is worn.

The collar follows the tailoring grammar with a lapel, and the shoulder line is not overly exaggerated, with a length that maintains a balanced fit. This is why the "wrinkles" of this fabric become a decorative element, emphasizing only the shadow of the surface without disturbing the silhouette. The front features large buttons, almost like a single fastener, adding a subtle shine amidst the black, quietly balancing the weight distribution during wear.

The pockets feature a zip design, with horizontal placement at the chest and diagonal at the waist, combining the language of tech with a classic jacket structure. The act of opening and closing shifts from "inserting the hand" to "sliding," making the movements more refined, and this individual characteristic adds value as a Miyake-like functional beauty, prioritizing aesthetic over sporty convenience. Inside, mesh-like lining is visible, serving to lighten, ventilate, and facilitate slipping during wear, while contrasting with the textured exterior by keeping the interior flat.

Regarding the era, all the information needed to verify authenticity is available. The label's company name, "株式会社イッセイミヤケ," matches the conditions for units produced after September 1990, and the model number "IM81-FD022" with "81" follows the known code indicating "Spring/Summer 1998," so it can be said that this item is from Spring/Summer 1998. In other words, it is a fine piece that captures the atmosphere of a period when material experiments were intensifying and connecting to later innovations, directly embodying that expression in the fabric.

Styling-wise, pairing a minimal shirt with straight slacks and matching the surface with glossy leather shoes creates a neat and refined look, with only the shadows of wrinkles standing out. As another idea, layering over a dress or long bottoms with a relaxed drape and cleanly trimming the neckline results in a balanced look where the tailored silhouette and tech-inspired zipper quietly work together.

Take this opportunity.