At Paris Fashion Week Men's in January, Japanese label FACETASM unveiled a collection inspired by designer Hiromichi Ochiai's recent trip to Australia.
FACETASM’s Autumn/Winter 2018 collection marks a close with relationship with The Woolmark Company, which saw Ochiai travel back to the source of Merino wool, visiting an Australian wool-growing property late last year. The resultant collection, EMOTION, includes 100 per cent Wool Denim trousers and jacket, 100 per cent wool gabardine wide-leg trousers, pleated skirt and down jacket along with innovative wool fur fabrications.
“I’d like to sincerely thank The Woolmark Company, as well as the extremely skilled fabric makers in Japan, for believing in my vision and supporting me in every step along the way to have this collection come to life,” said Ochiai after the show.
"The collection originated in moments of intense feelings and emotions. I wanted to express those through exploring many different wool techniques and treatments such as wrinkles, distortions, asymmetry and layering."
Unique wrinkle-effect wool-denim pieces, wool-fur jackets and a vivid red dress made of light-weight wool tropical closed the show were particular highlights of a very strong and coherent collection along with the designer's signature layers and big silhouettes.
Wool has been an integral part of FACETASM’s collections since its launch in 2007, highlighting the versatility of the fibre and its position as the premier ingredient in luxury apparel. Its unique creations are deeply rooted in Tokyo’s edgy street culture, quickly garnering global praise. The Woolmark Company has further connected the FACETASM design team with the wool supply chain and assisted with sourcing cutting-edge fabrics and yarns.
The capsule collection is made up of 25 100% Merino wool items and 8 wool-boa items including both men's and women's garments.
The two-season partnership will also see The Woolmark Company partner with FACETASM for its SS19 offering.