Signed Chitose Abe, the sneakers from the collaboration between Nike and the Japanese label Sacai await you on Addict! Find them now in this exclusive collection of 100% new and authentic pairs for men, women and children.
Nike x Sacai: A Revolutionary Collaboration in Streetwear History
Origins and Japanese influence in streetwear
Streetwear, with its essence deeply rooted in urban culture, draws much of its inspiration from street residents, most notably hip-hop. However, Japan has also left its mark on the world of streetwear. Japanese artists influenced by this wave created their own brands, bringing innovative designs and unique sales techniques. In the 90s, brands like Hiroshi Fujiwara's GOODENOUGH, known for their exclusivity and high quality, shaped the streetwear landscape. Hiroshi Fujiwara was also involved in the creation of Fragment Design, and Nigo launched A Bathing Ape (BAPE), revolutionizing the market with exclusive designs inspired by Japanese pop culture.
The evolution of Japanese streetwear and international collaborations
Over time, high fashion houses such as Comme des Garçons and Kenzo emerged, solidifying the link between luxury and urban fashion. Collaborations between Japanese and American brands have become common, enriching the creative dialogue between the two cultures. Partnerships like that between Comme des Garçons and Nike, or BAPE and Adidas, illustrate this successful merger.
Sacai: The contemporary heir of Japanese streetwear
In this context, Sacai, founded in 1999 by Chitose Abe, stands out as a modern heir to Japanese streetwear. After working at Comme des Garçons under Rei Kawakubo and Junya Watanabe, Chitose Abe launched Sacai, where she merged contrasting materials to create innovative designs. Sacai debuted in Paris in 2006, and despite critical acclaim, the brand remained relatively unknown to the general public until recently.
Nike x Sacai: An avant-garde collaboration
The collaboration between Nike and Sacai was revealed during SS19 Fashion Week in Paris, marking a landmark moment for both brands. Chitose Abe brought his unique approach to juxtaposing materials to the Nike Blazer and Waffle, redefining these classics with an unstructured and innovative design. The first editions, with their bright colors and bold designs, met with immediate success, propelling Sacai into the global streetwear spotlight.
Impact and future of collaboration
Collaborations between Nike and Sacai have continued to evolve, introducing new colors and expanding their partnership into other areas, such as tennis apparel for American athletes. In a world where collaborations are commonplace, projects between American and Japanese brands remain a guarantee of creativity and modernity. The Nike x Sacai collection perfectly embodies this trend, combining stylistic innovation and deep cultural heritage, setting new standards in the fashion and streetwear industry.
