Ssstein: The High Wizard of Quiet Luxury

Kiichiro Asakawa, the mastermind behind Ssstein, has cemented his position as Japan’s leading figure in the realm of quiet luxury. What started with just three pairs of trousers in 2016 has blossomed into a full-fledged brand that has captivated fashion enthusiasts from Seoul to Switzerland. Ssstein, with its distinctive triple ‘s’ logo, now offers a diverse range of wardrobe essentials that exude understated sophistication. However, it is the brand’s exquisite coats, crafted from luxurious wool fabrics that truly steal the spotlight.

The recent season marked a significant milestone for Ssstein as it made its debut in Paris, showcasing its creations to a select audience at the prestigious Palais de Tokyo. As the recipient of this year’s Fashion Prize of Tokyo, which aims to elevate Japanese designers on the global stage, Asakawa is set to present his collections in Paris for the upcoming seasons. This opportunity not only amplifies the brand’s visibility but also allows Asakawa to unleash his creativity in a new environment.

While the latest collection featured Ssstein’s signature trench coats and a range of effortlessly stylish pieces, there was a sense that the brand played it safe with familiar silhouettes. Asakawa shed light on his inspiration for the season, citing a focus on capturing the natural, soft, and intimate moments between photographers and models. This concept translated into tactile textures, intricate layering, and innovative details like pipe-belts, adding a touch of warmth and sophistication to the garments.

Despite some minor critiques, Asakawa’s talent for creating high-quality, wearable pieces is undeniable. “I aimed to design garments that blend casual comfort with a sense of elegance, suitable for everyday wear,” he shared. The concept of ‘doorstep elegance’ encapsulates the essence of Ssstein’s aesthetic perfectly.