Watanabe's way

Bags from the Loewe and Junya Watanabe Comme des Garcons capsule collection. Photo provided to China Daily

Watanabe traveled to Madrid in January this year to view prototypes that included the brand's iconic Amazona bag in a patchwork interpretation and one with diagonal cross-stitching.

"I was amazed by the way in which Junya's interpretation of Loewe's iconic elements was completely different," says Vevers. " I'm confident that we have created a collection which will shake up the general perception of Loewe."

The irreverence and beauty of this collection is that it is casual and utilitarian but executed to the highest luxury standards usually reserved for more precious and formal items. These standards are evidenced by the quality, intricacy of workmanship and the use of top-quality materials.

And yet, the irreverence did not end with the treatment of the clothes. It started at a show in Tokyo last May where these expensive clothes were sur-really presented to the tune of Japanese punk rock with a background made of photographs of the Alhambra.

The limited-edition collection consists of jackets, bags, jeans and skirts that embody the "urban punk" aesthetic which Watanabe is known for. Loewe's super-soft nappa and Japanese denim pieces feature a patchwork of tartan, polka dots, denim and leather of various textures. Bags are priced from HK$22,000 ($2,837) to 27,000 ($3,481), zippered pouches HK$2,700 to 5,300 and clothing starts at HK$10,000 for a denim and leather patchwork skirt to HK$35,000 for a nappa leather jacket.

Loewe has since manufactured several pieces for Junya Watanabe main collection for autumn/winter 2013. Which means that Watanabe's search for a leather manufacturer may be over.

"For me, when it comes to selecting a collaborative partner, the deciding factor is whether their factory has the best know-how. This is what makes Loewe such an attractive partner. The timing is perfect, as I had been trying to find the best leather factory to work with," says Watanabe.

The Loewe and Junya Watanabe Comme des Garcons capsule collection will be available worldwide at select Loewe boutiques in September.

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