For Spring/Summer 2008, Yohji Yamamoto presented a vivid narrative that offered a glimmer of hope amidst the inevitability of warfare. The collection appears to be centered around a soldier's homecoming, expressed with a tinge of serene optimism and a desire for freedom.
The show started on what appears to be the deployment of a soldier. Models donned clothing with aggresive militaria motifs. e.g. bondage zippers, cargo pockets, and red cross emblems. As the collection unfolded, universal symbols of hope (doves, sky blue palettes) cuts right through the tension. These elements were juxtaposed with printed text like "Feel Like Being Home" and "I Shall Be Released," further reinforcing the theme of yearning for peace.
The collection progressed with aged, stained clothing and eventually ends up with model donning his signature silhouette — the oversized cupro jacket and pants. Signifying the triumphant homecoming of the soldier.
The stark contrast in motifs created emotional tension throughout the collection, which played a crucial role in cohesive storytelling, breathing life into the inanimate fabrics worn on the body.
These robust, structured pants marked the first iteration of their kind, featuring oversized cargo pockets and front zips, allowing the wearer to manipulate the taper and silhouette of the pants.
