KU; A NEO PUNK DENIM EXPLOSION VFW S/S 2023

KU designed by AKIKO HOSOI

The brand KU comes to the runway of Vancouver fashion from Japan. VFW has a tradition of engaging with international fashion labels. This is the first appearance of KU at VFW. KU is a label that works with sustainable, recycled, and repurposed denim.

In 2013, it started with consignment sales of remade denim at a small general store.

Focusing on event exhibitions, he expanded his activities by remaining in the final judging at fashion shows and remake competitions. Currently, we are holding a 3days shop once a month.

From the perspective of sustainable fashion, which is also a modern environmental approach. Based on the concept of "kustom remake that does not make you feel old while making use of the used feeling."

excerpt taken from VFW website

KU - A REVIEW

If like me you follow the runways from NY, London, Paris, and Milan, you may have noticed a rebirth of Punk inspired fashion on the runways. Vancouver is not unlike those fashion capitals and is also seeing Punky looks coming out on the runway. This Neo Punk revolution is not a first-time return. The radical movement known as punk was first seen on the streets of London in the 1970s. While Punk started as a political and social action, it inspired fashion. Designers return to Punk for inspiration time and time again. In the case of KU, the designer has created a hybrid of Punk and Grunge that is unique and forceful.

KU creates one-of-a-kind pieces, constructed using repurposed fabrics and deconstructed denim. I thought I had seen this done before. But KU has a fresh approach that certainly excited this critic. The looks sent down the runway were inspired. From the first look to the last, this collection elevated sustainable fashion to a new level.

Tops made from repurposed graphic tee's, pieces of denim shredded, and bits of mesh poking out from frayed raw edges. Pieces of leopard print gauze fabric appear as a through-line on many sleeves and hems. Pant's legs have been flayed open and create a piece that follows the model like the train of a dress. Fabrics are altered using bleach, what appears to be paint, and dye.

Hair is put up like faux hawks, and army boots are the footwear. The looks are completed with chains hanging from chokers. A standout look has the denim straps of overalls incorporated into the top, denim shorts with mesh appliques, and a leopard sleeve. From my vantage point, the audience was transfixed by these short shorts, jeans missing legs, and deconstructed jackets. A black and grey mottled jacket made from tweed shows the designer's ability to transform traditional fabrics to create an impactful effect. The designer is bold and takes risks in creating a distinct vision of wearable art.

NEO PUNK, style, VANCOUVER FASHION WEEK, VFW S/S 2023