Andrea Pompilio decided to reinterpret Japanese pop codes, especially those belonging to the new generation, for fall. Neon lights from the streets of Tokyo and the vivacity of their contrasting colors became inspiration for the Italian designer, together with the impactful manga aesthetic. All these elements were mixed together in a subtle way, with the main purpose of unifying what comes from Japan with the company history. Also present were the recurring childish references used as tools to create a light-hearted wardrobe for Onitsuka Tiger.
A quintessentially Japanese pop culture code is often symbolized by school uniforms: that became a central theme this season with manga-approved mini pleated skirts paired with matching blazers or with lightweight striped T-shirts and vintage-inspired jackets—a nod to the ’70s. Formalwear was developed for men, with wide sartorial pants in pastel tones such as sage, mauve, and mustard. A touch of sport was enhanced by small puffer jackets, whose original design was found in the Onitsuka Tiger archives. Mexico 66 Square sneakers and boots—a squared-toe version of the brand’s most popular shoe—were proposed in a range of bright colors in lizard or floral prints.
Further, Japan was subtly recalled through the usage of flowers both as embroideries on fleece jackets and as micro inserts on creased checkered shirts, as well as through maxi patterns for oversized blousons and pants. This hint of romanticism was constantly present throughout the collection in the form of pastel bows, almost randomly applied on garments to recall, once again, a manga-like aesthetic. The show closed with a more sophisticated range of creased velvet frocks with beaded embroideries together with others made of a mesmerizing feather-effect fabric. Those dresses were completed by a pointy slingback version of the Mexico 66 sneakers.
