This Week's
Japan Picks

WHiTENOOK has recently unveiled its 2027 Spring/Summer collection. This collection showcases the brand's innovative designs and unique style, garnering significant attention in the fashion world. While specific product details and release dates have yet to be announced, this collection is sure to be a highlight for the upcoming season.

Photographer Yutaro Yamane is holding a solo exhibition titled '44' at the see you gallery in Hiroo, Tokyo, from September 12 to 28. The exhibition aims to draw attention to the passage of time often overlooked in daily life, and a corresponding photobook titled '44' will also be released during this period, showcasing his unique perspective on everyday moments.

VOWELS has recently unveiled its 2027 Spring/Summer collection. This collection showcases the brand's unique perspective on future fashion, blending innovative designs with practicality, capturing the attention of many fashion enthusiasts. Specific product details and release dates have yet to be announced, so stay tuned.

On September 12, the salon-exclusive brand Meirubang launched its first male brand 'Capture the Moment', aimed at meeting the evolving beauty needs of men. This series includes seven styling products specifically designed for men, to be sold in salons nationwide, providing more possibilities for men's hairstyle designs.

On the 5th, Matsuya opened its new building, the 'Matsuya Ginza Namiki Street Building,' featuring a small museum on the 2nd and 3rd floors called the 'Ginza Mirai Museum.' It will host a collaborative exhibition with Aniplex showcasing Chinese anime until September 29, aiming to establish Ginza as a destination for anime enthusiasts.

'THREE' will launch the 2026 holiday collection 'UNLUXURY MOMENTS' on October 30. This collection is themed around the transparency and flush of winter, featuring products such as highlighters, blush foundations, loose powders, and eyeshadows, showcasing a variety of pearls and textures to create a more three-dimensional makeup look. These limited edition colors will add highlights to winter makeup.

On September 4, KHOKI presented its Spring/Summer 2027 collection in Tokyo. The event took place at the Terada Warehouse's 'G1-5F', where a nostalgic home setting was recreated with kitchen, bedroom, and entrance scenes. The collection modernizes grunge and Y2K styles, capturing the attention of fashion enthusiasts.

Valentino has launched the new 'Stud Up' sneakers, which made their debut in the 2026-27 autumn/winter collection, designed by creative director Alessandro Michele. The shoes come in seven colors and are adorned with studs and butterfly patterns, showcasing a unique fashion style suitable for consumers seeking individuality and taste.

The international art fair 'Tokyo Gendai 2026' will be held from September 11 to 13 at the Pacifico Yokohama Conference Center, marking the fourth edition of the event. This exhibition will feature several renowned galleries, including Kaikai Kiki, Mizuma Art, and NANZUKA, and the cosmetics brand POLA will also participate. The event is expected to attract the attention of art enthusiasts and professionals.

The French fashion brand 'Martin Martin' will officially launch in Japan and hold its first pop-up store at Isetan Shinjuku. Since its establishment in 2019, the brand has focused on the sale of imported clothing and the development of its own brand, and this entry into the Japanese market marks an important step in its global expansion, attracting the attention of many fashion enthusiasts.

Hakuhodo's 'New Affluent Marketing Lab' has released the New Affluent Survey 2026, analyzing the values, lifestyles, and consumption awareness of affluent individuals. This survey focuses on households with an annual income of over 15 million yen, revealing ten key values that are crucial for brands and market strategies.

The 'Boston Patchwork' designed in collaboration between 'BEAMS' and 'Birkenstock' will be released on September 12, priced at 36,300 yen. This special edition shoe is designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of both parties, featuring bold patchwork in three colors of suede, showcasing a unique style, and will be sold at 'BEAMS' stores nationwide.

On September 18, PARCO opened a new store named 'VERDY's Postal Service' in collaboration with graphic artist VERDY, located on the basement level 1 of Shinsaibashi PARCO. This store aims to promote the culture of souvenirs, offering a unique mailing experience and artistic products, attracting the attention of young consumers and becoming a hotspot for community interaction.

Chinese fashion brand 'ICICLE' has announced that former 'GUCCI' creative director Sabato De Sarno will take on the role of creative director starting in 2023 for a two-year term. This appointment signals the brand's intention to further elevate its design standards and potentially attract more high-end consumers.

LEVI'S held an immersive experience event themed around women's creativity in Shibuya from September 15 to 20, called the 'LEVI'S Women's Experience.' This event specially invited BLACKPINK's Rosé as the spokesperson, aiming to celebrate the uniqueness and creativity of women, attracting numerous fashion enthusiasts.

ADAM ET ROPE collaborated with the French shoe brand PARABOOT to launch a new exclusive model 'EX Chambord AER NOIR.' Priced at 99,000 yen, this shoe was officially released on September 7, showcasing a modern all-black design that reinterprets a classic shoe model, capturing the attention of fashion enthusiasts.

The golf sport is strengthening its communication activities with individual investors. The company set up a booth at the 'Nikkei & Tokyo Stock Exchange IR Expo' held in 2026 for two consecutive years, showcasing its characteristics as a sports fashion enterprise. This event not only enhanced the brand image but also fostered emotional connections with investors, emphasizing the importance of empathetic investment.

The Tokyo Fashion Award 2027 (FPT), organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Japan Fashion Week Organization (JFWO), recently announced that the brand TANAKA has won this award. The award aims to promote Japanese fashion and design, particularly Japanese denim, and to bring it to the international stage, especially in Paris, showcasing Japan's unique fashion charm.

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, BEAMS BOY has specially commissioned 'Workwear' to launch an anniversary collection, set to go on sale on September 17. This collection includes multifunctional coats and skirts, emphasizing versatility and practicality, suitable for various occasions. Available at all BEAMS physical stores nationwide, it is worth the attention of fashion enthusiasts.

This week, multiple autumn makeup products will be launched, including NARS's 2026 Autumn Makeup Collection, which will be available from September 7 to 13. Additionally, SOFINA's 'Keratin Moisturizing Primer' has also released new colors, adding more options for autumn makeup. These new products not only enhance makeup effects but also keep the skin hydrated, making them essential items for autumn makeup.

ESTEE LAUDER will release the first wave of products from the 2026 Christmas Collection on October 16 and 23, with the second wave launching on the 30th. This collection is inspired by world-renowned hotels and is titled 'MAKE IT GRAND', featuring 13 types of cosmetics and skincare products, perfect as holiday gifts that showcase luxury and taste.

Mitsui Fudosan opened a plaza named ATOCHI on October 1 at the site of the former Tsudanuma PARCO, located at the north exit of JR Tsudanuma Station. This location was previously a business site for Shibuya PARCO, which closed in February 2023, and the building was demolished to temporarily serve as a public space, providing a recreational area for local residents and paving the way for future redevelopment.

ISSEY MIYAKE held a special exhibition 'URUSHI BODY' on September 1, showcasing creations from the 2026-27 autumn and winter collection, with exhibition locations including Ginza, Funabashi, and Kyoto. This exhibition focuses on the combination of washi paper and lacquer, providing a display of new works and order sales, highlighting the brand's exploration of the relationship between materials and the body.

AZUMA. recently released its 2027 spring/summer collection, showcasing the latest fashion designs and trends. This collection is inspired by contemporary art, blending innovative and traditional elements, aimed at attracting the attention of young consumers. Specific product details and prices have yet to be announced, so stay tuned.

The Tokyo Fashion Award 2027, hosted by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Japan Fashion Week Organization, announced the list of 8 winning designers on September 5, including Orimi, Midorikawa, Garwin, and Poolde. These designers range from a brand with 72 years of history to emerging designers who have just debuted for two years, showcasing the diversity and innovative potential of the Japanese fashion industry.

This article introduces fashionable items set to be released from September 7 to 13, including the collaboration series between Starbucks and the outdoor brand AND WANDER, as well as products from 'JELLY POKE' in collaboration with Pokémon. These new products not only showcase the creative collaborations of the brands but also attract the attention of many fashion enthusiasts, making them worth watching.

With the ongoing high temperatures, the autumn dressing theme still revolves around 'coolness'. Sleeveless clothing has become a representative of the autumn and winter seasons, effectively reducing stuffiness whether paired with a jacket or worn alone. Sleeveless designs frequently appeared in fashion shows from many top brands, demonstrating their versatile pairing potential for the autumn and winter seasons.

The 2026 LVMH Young Fashion Designer Prize, awarded by LVMH, goes to designer Julie Kegels from Amsterdam. This award aims to support emerging designers and promote innovation in the fashion industry. Julie's work has been highly praised by the judges for its unique perspective and creativity, showcasing the potential of future fashion.

ESTEE LAUDER launched a new lotion 'Advanced Night Repair Essence' on September 4. This product is based on over 40 years of night repair research and utilizes exosome technology from aesthetic medicine. This lotion aims to enhance the skin's repair capabilities, allowing for better nourishment and repair during the night, making it worth a try.

Japanese brand DEJAVU launched a liquid eyebrow pencil and mucous eyeliner focused on powder formulas this autumn. The 'Powder Eyebrow Dye' (available in three colors, each priced at 1320 yen) released on September 4 features 'dye-level long-lasting' properties, allowing for the creation of naturally fluffy eyebrows, suitable for daily use, enhancing the overall makeup look.

Fashion stylist Naoko Okusa's collaboration with Lesportsac marks a limited edition reissue for the 10th anniversary of its ultra-lightweight series. This series is widely loved for its convenience and practicality, attracting the attention of many fashion enthusiasts. The reissue not only pays tribute to the brand's history but also provides consumers with new purchasing options.

Kracie recently launched a brand new professional hair care line 'TEXX', focusing on the damage issues of wet hair. The first product is a leave-in hair care lotion, 90 grams, priced at 4950 yen. This innovative product aims to improve the health of wet hair, providing users with better care options.

In this issue, Ryo Ishikawa explores his passion for driving a Gundam and shares his connection with 'taste makers in the fashion world.' As the founder of 'VANQUISH,' his beloved car is not just a means of transportation but a reflection of his personal values, showcasing his unique insights into cars and fashion.

Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten launched 8 products in collaboration with manga artist Chūya Koyama's 'Space Brothers' on September 16. These products will be sold in direct stores and the official online shop. The items include glass blowing, Echizen lacquerware, and Seto ware, aiming to express the concept of 'small universe,' attracting the attention of many fans.

Published weekly, 'WWDJAPAN' delves into the trends and movements in fashion and beauty, providing industry insights and depth. In the latest feature, it examines the role of investment firms in the fashion and beauty sectors and analyzes whether they truly act like 'vultures' preying on the market. This topic has sparked widespread attention in the industry.

The 'Rakuten Fashion Week Tokyo' for Spring/Summer 2027 took place from August 31 to September 5, attracting numerous fashion industry professionals. Designers, buyers, media, and stylists were present, showcasing the latest fashion trends and creativity, adding vibrancy to this grand event. This occasion is not only a display of fashion but also an important platform for industry exchange.

'KIEHL'S SINCE 1851' launched a new beauty serum 'Plump Collagen Serum' on September 4, developed in collaboration with dermatologists from Harvard Medical School, focusing on 15 different types of collagen. This product has a capacity of 30mL and is priced at 6930 yen, with a three-day limited-time pop-up event held in Shibuya, attracting the attention of many beauty enthusiasts.

'ENFOLD' unveiled its Spring/Summer 2027 collection on August 31 in Tokyo. The event took place at the 'G1-5F' event space in Terada Warehouse, where the vibrant clothing added energy to the inorganic concrete environment. This showcase emphasized the design's silhouette and comfort, attracting the attention of many fashion enthusiasts.

The circular 'Textile to Textile' recycling system is set to be implemented globally. Japan's Toray Industries is collaborating with China's Hengshen Group, focusing on the chemical recycling of nylon and conducting polyester recycling work in Jiangsu Province. This collaboration not only contributes to environmental protection but also paves the way for sustainable development in the fashion industry.

NAUTICA will hold a pop-up exhibition titled 'STILLS IN NYC Photo by Jiro Konami' at FREAK'S STORE in Shibuya from September 5 to 13, showcasing works photographed by Jiro Konami in New York. This exhibition not only displays photographic art but also incorporates fashion elements, attracting the attention of many art and fashion enthusiasts.

In the first round of the 2026 US Open, the final Grand Slam tournament of the year, Naomi Osaka showcased her unique fusion look of basketball and tennis. The match took place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York, and her outfit not only displayed a sporty style but also reflected her unique perspective on fashion, attracting significant media attention.

The fashion cultivation project for middle and high school students, 'Future Fashion Academy' (FFi), inspires children’s sensibility through the film 'Whisper of the Heart'. This project aims to enhance teenagers' fashion awareness and encourages them to find inspiration in movies, thereby influencing their fashion choices. Such activities not only strengthen parent-child relationships but also help the younger generation better understand the diversity of fashion.

In recent years, many 'apartment-style hotels' have emerged in Okinawa. These accommodations are equipped with essential living items such as kitchens and washing machines, allowing guests to live comfortably as if at home. Unlike traditional hotels, these establishments offer a higher quality vacation experience, combining the convenience of living with the enjoyment of a holiday, attracting more and more travelers.

Designed by Mizuki Ueda, ENFOLD's Spring/Summer 2027 collection is themed 'WRAPPING STRUCTURE'. This series is inspired by the structures of modern medieval architecture, using vibrant colors to soften the inorganic feel, showcasing a unique design philosophy that has captured the attention of the fashion world.

Olivia Rodrigo held her first female-led music festival, Daisy Chain Fields, on August 29 in Alvins, California. The festival attracted numerous luxury guests, showcasing her influence and innovative spirit in the music industry, providing fans with an audiovisual feast.

Narciso Rodriguez will release three types of 2026 Christmas limited edition sets themed 'The Season of Light' on November 18, aimed at adding sparkle to the holiday. These limited products will be available at Shiseido's Ginza flagship store and Shiseido's online store, attracting consumers who love high-end fragrances. The launch of this series not only showcases the brand's creativity but also adds a unique charm to the festive season.

Kao's new brand 'Sofina' launched a series of new products this autumn, achieving a good response in the market. The brand's performance in the first half of 2026 grew by 4% compared to the same period last year. Especially, the 'Sofina iP' carbonated foam cleanser launched in May and the 1000 yen product released in August sold 500,000 bottles in just 10 days, showing high consumer recognition of its effectiveness.

With the arrival of September, the hot weather continues, and many people crave light outfits. The styling of low-rise pants is gradually becoming popular, and the design with belts makes the overall look more elegant. This new trend not only breaks away from the previous street style but also provides mature women with new fashion choices.

Actress Nicole Kidman showcased a custom design by designer Peter Dundas from 'Atelier Versace' for the first time at the premiere of the film 'Practical Magic 2' held in Los Angeles on September 1. This look not only highlighted her unique style but also garnered widespread attention in the fashion world, becoming one of the highlights of the evening.

British fragrance brand Jo Malone London has launched its first 'Dog Grooming Collection' on September 4, with the debut product being dog shampoo 'Orange & Fern'. This collection not only enhances the grooming experience for dogs but also reflects the brand's new proposal for pet lifestyles, allowing beloved pets to enjoy luxurious care.

Italian footwear brand 'AUTRY' has collaborated with Stray Kids member Changbin (ソ・チャンビン) to launch a brand new capsule collection. The design inspiration for this series comes from Changbin's iconic style 'トェッキ'. These products will be available for pre-sale at Isetan Shinjuku, with T-shirts priced at 18,700 yen, attracting the attention of many fans.

John Masters Organics has initiated a brand reform plan 'JMO2.0', aiming to break its traditional image as a 'pioneer of organic cosmetics'. This plan will last approximately three years, with fragrances as the new core, launching premium hair care products to enhance the brand's market competitiveness.

Hiroshi Fujiwara's 'Fragment Design' will launch the second term of its fictional university course 'Fragment University' in November 2026. This course not only offers creative learning opportunities but will also host open campus events to allow more people to understand this unique learning platform. This is an important step for Hiroshi Fujiwara in promoting design and creative education.

The podcast program 'Reporter Talk Room' by 'WWDJAPAN' discusses the new uniforms launched by FamilyMart on September 1, and delves into the impact of this change on work attire. This is not only an update to the brand image but also reflects the current fashion trends affecting the work environment, which is worth paying attention to.

Anna Sui Cosmetics will launch its 2026 holiday collection on November 13, including makeup sets and hand care kits. These limited edition 'makeup sets' are themed around a dessert shop, showcasing unique designs and colors, perfect for festive celebrations, making enthusiasts eagerly anticipate.

「安娜蘇化妝品（ANNA SUI COSMETICS）」將於11月1日發售與歌手Ado合作的假日系列“藍玫瑰秀”。這個系列包含以藍玫瑰為主題的限量版唇膏和指甲油，展現出獨特的藝術風格，適合節日季節的使用。這些產品不僅美觀，還能為妝容增添一抹亮色。

The Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York announced that the John Galliano retrospective, originally scheduled to take place from May 9, 2027, to January 2028, has been cancelled due to his past discriminatory remarks. The museum stated that they did not want to put themselves in a difficult position, and this decision has sparked widespread discussion, reflecting the fashion industry's reflection and responsibility regarding past behaviors.

Korean cosmetics brand 'FORENCOS' has announced that Takumi Ozaki, a member of the global boy group INI, has officially become its brand ambassador, marking his first solo role as a brand ambassador. This move not only enhances the brand's visibility but also adds a new highlight to Ozaki's personal image, showcasing his influence in the fashion and beauty industry.

Prada Beauty will launch its 2026 holiday collection on November 6 and December 4. The first wave of products includes the brand's first limited edition 'Redwood Collection', along with various cosmetic sets, and complimentary makeup bags and perfume sets, showcasing the brand's unique style and festive atmosphere.

This week, a variety of beauty products will be launched, including 'KATE's' pink collection as well as new skincare products from 'YSL', 'Lancôme', and 'Curel'. With the arrival of September, autumn and winter cosmetics and skincare products are gradually hitting the market, bringing new choices for consumers. These products not only enhance makeup but also effectively care for the skin, making them highly anticipated.