Why Is It Called Comme des Garçons?
Threads of Rebellion: The Untold Saga of Comme des Garçons Comme des Garçons is a Japanese fashion brand founded by designer Rei Kawakubo in 1969. Known for its avant-garde designs, deconstructed silhouettes, and innovative use of materials, the brand challenges traditional notions of fashion. Comme des Garçons has expanded into various lines, including menswear, fragrances, and accessories, and is celebrated for its conceptual runway shows and collaborations with other brands. It remains a prominent influence in the global fashion industry.

Comme des Garçons is one of the most influential and avant-garde fashion brands in the world. Established by Rei Kawakubo in 1969, the Japanese brand has continually challenged conventional fashion norms and redefined the industry with its unique aesthetic and philosophy. The name "Comme des Garçons" is a French phrase that translates to "Like Boys" in English. While the brand's identity and creations are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, its name and global influence have a strong French connection. This article delves into the origins of the name, the inspiration behind it, and how it aligns with the brand's philosophy.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The phrase "commedesgarcon-us.com" directly translates to "Like Boys" in English. This name reflects Rei Kawakubo's initial vision of designing clothing that does not conform to traditional gender expectations. At the time of its inception, women’s fashion was heavily dominated by feminine silhouettes, vibrant colors, and body-hugging designs. Kawakubo, however, was interested in a more androgynous aesthetic that challenged gender norms and allowed women to dress in ways that were not dictated by societal expectations. By choosing a French name with a powerful meaning, Kawakubo immediately set her brand apart from traditional Japanese fashion houses.
Rei Kawakubo's Inspiration
Rei Kawakubo, the founder of Comme des Garçons, has always been known for her unconventional approach to fashion. Born in Tokyo in 1942, Kawakubo studied fine arts and literature at Keio University before entering the fashion industry. She never received formal fashion training, which gave her a fresh perspective and a willingness to break the rules. In the 1960s and 1970s, when the brand was still in its early stages, Kawakubo was inspired by the idea of creating clothing that was unisex and free from traditional gender constraints. The name "Comme des Garçons" was influenced by the 1962 song "Tous les garçons et les filles" by French singer Françoise Hardy, which loosely translates to "All the boys and girls." This connection to French culture and music added an element of sophistication and international appeal to the brand's identity.
The Influence of French Culture
While https://commedesgarcon-us.com/ is a Japanese brand, its name and influences are heavily intertwined with French culture. Paris has long been regarded as the epicenter of fashion, and many designers from around the world aspire to showcase their work there. When Kawakubo launched Comme des Garçons, she strategically chose a French name to give the brand an international allure. The decision also reflected the growing relationship between Japanese and French fashion in the late 20th century. By presenting her collections in Paris and using a French name, Kawakubo successfully positioned her brand within the global fashion conversation. In 1981, Comme des Garçons made its Paris Fashion Week debut, creating shockwaves in the fashion industry with its unconventional, deconstructed, and often asymmetrical designs. The French name gave the brand a sense of European elegance, while the innovative designs remained deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics and philosophy.
The Androgynous and Avant-Garde Aesthetic
The choice of the name "Comme des Garçons" aligns perfectly with the brand's androgynous and avant-garde approach. Since its inception, Comme des Garçons has challenged the traditional ideas of beauty and gender by creating clothing that defies categorization. The brand is known for its oversized silhouettes, monochromatic color palettes, and experimental textures. These elements create an aesthetic that is neither strictly masculine nor feminine, making the name "Like Boys" particularly fitting. By embracing androgyny, Kawakubo has continuously pushed boundaries in the fashion world, proving that clothing should not be limited by gender norms. Her designs often incorporate unexpected elements, such as raw hems, asymmetry, and exaggerated proportions. These characteristics have helped define the brand’s unique identity and cement its reputation as a pioneer in the industry.
Comme des Garçons' Global Impact
Despite its Japanese origins, Comme des Garçons has had a significant global impact. The brand has gained a cult following among fashion enthusiasts, artists, and celebrities worldwide. Its collaborations with major brands like Nike, Supreme, and Louis Vuitton have further expanded its reach beyond high fashion circles. One of the key reasons for Comme des Garçons' success is its ability to maintain an air of mystery and exclusivity. Unlike many commercial fashion brands, Comme des Garçons does not rely heavily on marketing campaigns or traditional advertising. Instead, it allows its designs and conceptual runway shows to speak for themselves. The use of a French name adds an additional layer of mystique, making the brand more intriguing to fashion lovers around the world. Another important aspect of its global influence is its ability to inspire other designers. Many contemporary fashion houses and independent designers cite Rei Kawakubo and Comme des Garçons as major influences in their work. The brand’s ability to redefine fashion through intellectual and conceptual designs has left an indelible mark on the industry.
The Legacy of Comme des Garçons
Comme des Garçons' legacy extends beyond clothing; it represents a way of thinking. The brand challenges the status quo and encourages people to see fashion as an art form rather than just a means of dressing the body. By choosing a French name, Kawakubo gave her brand an international presence, but the ethos of Comme des Garçons remains deeply personal and rooted in her artistic vision. The brand has also expanded into various sub-labels, including Comme des Garçons PLAY, Comme des Garçons Homme, and Comme des Garçons SHIRT. Each of these lines caters to different aspects of fashion, from casual wear to experimental high fashion. However, the core philosophy of Comme des Garçons remains unchanged—challenging conventions and embracing creativity without limits.
Conclusion
The name "Comme des Garçons" is more than just a label; it is a statement of identity, philosophy, and artistic vision. The choice of a French name for a Japanese brand was a strategic and meaningful decision that helped define its avant-garde approach and global appeal. Rei Kawakubo's desire to challenge gender norms and traditional fashion conventions is deeply embedded in the name, which translates to "Like Boys." Over the years, Comme des Garçons has become synonymous with innovation, androgyny, and the pursuit of artistic freedom. Its legacy continues to inspire designers and fashion lovers worldwide, proving that fashion can be much more than just clothing—it can be a powerful form of self-expression and cultural commentary.
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