Everything
The familiar catchphrase gotta catch them all has just taken on a new dimension as Fendi teams up with the “godfather of streetwear” Hiroshi Fujiwara to launch a distinctive fashion series between the Roman fashion house, Fujiwara’s own brand FRGMT and Pokémon. The partnership, known as ‘Friends of Fendi’, merges the realms of high fashion, streetwear, and pop culture, presenting a unique blend of styles and traditions.
Kim Jones, Fendi’s Artistic Director of Couture and Womenswear, recounted his first meeting with Fujiwara in London:. ”I first met Hiroshi Fujiwara in 1999 — and what can I say? He’s one of my idols and I love him. He’s an instigator of the Japanese club scene, its youth fashion scene and its streetwear scene. I have been in love with Japan for a long time, its Influence on me and what I do is huge — Hiroshi is a huge part of that.”
Fendi’s Artistic Director of Accessories and Menswear Silvia Venturini Fendi has highlighted the iconic status of their bag designs and the importance of their craftsmanship and the chance to celebrate these aspects in new ways, a vision realised through Fujiwara’s involvement. ”Our bag shapes are a logo themselves,” says Silvia. “They are so representative of the House. While our workmanship is another important part of our iconography. At the same time, we never want to be too precious with either — we enjoy celebrating both in new ways!”
The collaboration introduced a fresh perspective while paying homage to Fendi’s history, she adds.
Fujiwara, known for his diverse approach encompassing fashion, music, art, and product design, has been a key player in shaping global fashion trends. His collaboration with Fendi reflects this versatility, infusing the brand’s traditional aesthetic with an innovative touch.
The partnership resulted in two distinct collections: Fendi x FRGMT and Fendi x FRGMT x Pokémon. The former featured the ‘FF Fragment’ design, merging Fujiwara’s signature style with FENDI’s iconic FF jacquard logo. This range included various handbags, such as the Peekaboo ISeeU Small and the Baguette Pouch, along with men’s items like messenger bags and belt bags, all showcasing this unique design.
The Fendi x FRGMT x Pokémon collection celebrated the Year of the Dragon, highlighting Dragon-type Pokémon. This playful series skilfully combined Fendi’s craftsmanship with the charm of Pokémon, evident in items like 3D leather marquetry bags shaped like Dragonite and Dratini. The collection also extended to clothing, featuring t-shirts and silk pyjamas with Dragonite designs, and a selection of brass jewellery adorned with iconic Pokémon symbols.
In a special offering, the collaboration included a collector’s item – a Dragonite figure, meticulously handcrafted by Fendi’s leather artisans, showcasing the brand’s exceptional skill and creative spirit.
Additionally, the partnership with Pokémon GO allows players to access digital items from the Fendi x FRGMT x Pokémon collection. This interactive element invited fans to engage with the collaboration in a new way.
The collaboration between Fendi x FRGMT and Pokémon is available from today, January 4th, in select Fendi boutiques and online.
