Fans of Uniqlo and Jil Sander will know that the relationship between the two goes all the way back to 2009, when the German designer first collaborated with Uniqlo to birth the +J range, effectively marking Uniqlo’s first foray into high fashion.
This collaboration, much loved for its modernist and elevated take on wardrobe staples, went on for two years, before being placed on hiatus in 2011.
+J Fall/Winter 2021 collection will drop on November 19.
The series was revived last year to much fanfare, with Uniqlo calling it a Chapter 2 in the +J line. With the upcoming Fall/Winter’21 collection, however, Uniqlo says Chapter 2 is unfortunately concluded – for now.
Set to launch November 26 at the brand’s Orchard Central Flagship, Ion Orchard and online, the final +J collection is an attractive one. Much focus has been placed on tactility and fabric materiality – think cashmere, extra fine merino, tactile leather and habutai silk (a traditional Japanese silk).
The upcoming +J outing puts an emphasis on tactility with its fabrication.
Ms Sander continues her discreet experimentations of silhouettes and details, seen best on pieces such as an asymmetric cashmere long coat, or a men’s colour-blocked parka. There’s even a rare bag – a simple leather shoulder number that Old Celine-types will lap up.
“This winter’s collection concentrates on distinctive silhouettes, sensual textures and luxurious tailoring which respond to our new sense of comfort: sophistication for everyone,” she explains. “We return to social life, but we want to feel protected. The collection explores new oversize silhouettes with a controlled fit and variations of substantial winter classics.”
This bag from the upcoming +J collection will appeal to fans of minimalist designs.
While we’re sad that the +J range is coming to an end for the moment, Ms Sander has had a history of rekindling her old projects – she quit and returned to her namesake luxury label on at least two known occasions in the early 2000s. Here’s hoping for good news in the future.
Below, a preview of the collection.
