Christian Dada was founded by Masanori Morikawa in 2010. As one of the first Japanese designers to grace Paris Fashion Week, Christian Dada was never just a fashion brand—it was an attitude, a tribute to imperfection, and a love letter to rebellion. Rooted in the subversive spirit of Dadaism, Morikawa’s work blended traditional Japanese craftsmanship with the raw energy of punk and rock ‘n’ roll, creating garments that felt both poetic and defiant. His collections often paid homage to music icons, exploring themes of destruction, beauty, and nostalgia through unexpected silhouettes.
As Morikawa grew older, he became increasingly disillusioned with the capitalistic consumerism surrounding his brand. In 2020, he announced the suspension of Christian Dada. The following year, he introduced a new label, BASICKS, which embraced a slower approach to fashion by reworking vintage pieces and incorporating eco-friendly materials.
For Christian Dada’s Spring/Summer 2016 collection, the runway showcased a harmonious mix of delicate fabrics and edgy details. Inspired by the cultural melting pot of Yokohama’s Chinatown and Morikawa’s vision of his dream gothic girl. Flowing silhouettes were juxtaposed with leather accents and studded embellishments, creating a striking balance between softness and toughness. This collection marked a shift from Morikawa’s earlier rock ‘n’ roll-driven aesthetic and embraced a newfound lightness and sophistication.
A standout accessory from this season was the Guitar Clutch, designed to resemble a miniature guitar case. Capturing the essence of a touring musician’s essential gear, it seamlessly aligned with Christian Dada’s ethos of blending fashion with subcultural elements.
