Record-Breaking Auction of Comme des Garçons Highlights Fashion as Art

What's Happening?

A record-breaking auction of Comme des Garçons pieces took place in Paris, curated by Japanese collector Hiroaki Narita. The event featured rare items from the brand's history, including twisted black wool coats from the early 1980s and abstract printed jackets from the mid-1970s. The auction was organized by Piasa, with deputy director Paul Viguier emphasizing the artistic value of the pieces over their wearability. The auction began with early 1980s handknit sweaters and wool jackets selling for $250-$400, highlighting the accessibility of owning a piece of fashion history. The event attracted global interest, with many collectors viewing the items as works of art rather than mere clothing.

Why It's Important?

This auction underscores the growing recognition of fashion as a form of art, with collectors willing to invest significant sums in iconic pieces. It reflects a broader trend in the fashion industry where historical and avant-garde designs are increasingly valued for their artistic merit. This shift could influence how fashion is perceived and collected, potentially increasing the market value of similar items. The auction also highlights the role of collectors like Hiroaki Narita in preserving and curating fashion history, offering insights into the cultural and artistic significance of designers like Rei Kawakubo.

What's Next?

The success of this auction may encourage more events focusing on fashion as art, potentially leading to increased collaboration between fashion houses and art institutions. Collectors and fashion enthusiasts might see more opportunities to acquire unique pieces, further blurring the lines between fashion and art. Additionally, this could inspire designers to create more experimental and artistic collections, knowing there is a market that appreciates and values such creativity.

Beyond the Headlines

The auction raises questions about the commodification of art and fashion, as well as the accessibility of such pieces to the general public. While the event made some items available at relatively low prices, the overall trend of high-value auctions could limit access to fashion history to only the wealthiest collectors. This dynamic may influence future discussions on the democratization of art and fashion.