The final day of Paris Fashion Week brought Yusuke Takahashi of CFCL to a reflective state of mind. Drawing inspiration from Joseph Beuys, Takahashi explored the idea that art has the power to reshape society, aligning with his own beliefs. Backstage at the Palais de Tokyo, he mused on how clothing serves as a canvas for the philosophy of its creators.
The collection, titled “Knit-Ware: Sculpture,” positioned CFCL’s iconic pieces as social sculptures, bridging the gap between the individual and society as a whole. The show was accompanied by a live spoken-word performance by Ben Vida, layered with electronic sounds, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. One line from the performance stood out: “Timelines converge to become interlacing possibilities […] text to textile, code unknown.”
The runway opened with oversized coats crafted from TW Inlay fabric, a unique blend of New Zealand wool, Inner Mongolian cashmere, and recycled polyester. The result was a combination of substance and drape that elevated CFCL’s aesthetic. Seamless 3D knits added a sense of fluidity and versatility to the collection, with pops of color in lilac, poppy red, burgundy, and more. However, the true standout moments came in the eveningwear pieces. For the first time, CFCL experimented with printing black and white knitwear with silver foil, paying homage to Beuys’s iconic 7000 Oaks project.
Fringe details added a touch of glamour and excitement to CFCL’s sculptural knits. Takahashi described it as a blend of precise knitwear techniques and human craftsmanship. From hand-threaded tassels on a black dress to a sassy silver bustier dress, each piece showcased the brand’s dedication to detail. The collaboration with Veja made its debut, further solidifying CFCL’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
With a new headquarters in Tokyo and a B Corp certification, CFCL is poised to elevate its offerings to new heights. The combination of intricate knitwear, handcrafted details, and sustainable practices sets CFCL apart in the fashion world. As Takahashi continues to push boundaries and explore the intersection of art and fashion, CFCL is undoubtedly a brand to watch in the future.
