What's Happening?
Raf Simons, the renowned Belgian designer, is set to hold a three-week sale of his brand's archival pieces at Dover Street Market Ginza in Tokyo. This event marks three years since Simons closed his eponymous label. The sale, scheduled from December 29 to January 18, will feature a variety of items, including rare garments, early show invitations, and memorabilia from the brand's history. Simons, who is currently co-creative director of Prada, will be present on the first day to sign pieces. The Raf Simons brand, founded in 1995, became influential in the fashion industry, known for its menswear that popularized the skinny silhouette and focused on youth culture. The brand's Spring/Summer 2023 collection was its last, following Simons' announcement
in late 2022.
Why It's Important?
The sale of Raf Simons' archive is significant as it offers fashion enthusiasts and collectors a unique opportunity to acquire pieces from a brand that has had a substantial impact on the fashion industry. Simons' work is credited with influencing modern menswear and shaping trends that resonate with youth culture. This event not only celebrates the legacy of the Raf Simons brand but also highlights the ongoing interest in archival fashion, which has become a growing trend in the luxury market. The sale could potentially increase the brand's visibility and reinforce its cultural relevance, even after its closure.
What's Next?
Following the sale, it is likely that there will be increased interest in Raf Simons' work, both from collectors and fashion historians. The event may also inspire other designers to explore similar archival sales, tapping into the nostalgia and exclusivity that such events offer. Additionally, Simons' role at Prada may continue to influence his creative direction, potentially integrating elements from his past work into future collections. The fashion industry will be watching closely to see how this sale impacts the market for archival fashion pieces.
