SS23 Lemaire Drawstring Judo Pants

Over the years, Christophe Lemaire has built a language of dressing that avoids fashion’s obsession with spectacle. His clothes do not conform to trends or pander to performance. Instead, they invite the wearer into garments that move with the body and patinate with time.

His namesake label, founded in 1990, has undergone several major changes over the years. In 2014, he decided to return to it full time and renamed it simply “Lemaire.” The name change signaled more than a shift in typography. It marked the emergence of a shared creative vision with Sarah-Linh Tran, his longtime partner in both work and life. Together, they shaped Lemaire into something larger than one man’s imprint.

Christophe Lemaire’s understanding of quiet luxury deepened during his time as Artistic Director of womenswear at Hermès from 2010 to 2014, where he fused the house’s deep craft heritage with his own language of restraint. There, he proved that sophistication doesn’t need adornment. Just honesty and intent. After leaving Hermès, he returned to his own label with renewed focus, expanding it slowly and deliberately, with no rush to keep up.

In 2015, he developed his own label with Uniqlo titled Uniqlo U, designed and engineered in Paris. Lemaire translated his design philosophy of balance, utility, and softness into everyday essentials at a democratic price point. The partnership allowed him to reach a wider audience without compromising the clarity of his vision.

History aside, for Spring/Summer 2023, Lemaire showcased their collection at the iconic Musée des Arts et Métiers. Instead of a traditional runway, models wandered casually through a train station hall “film set” while stuck in a situation loop. It felt less like a show and more like life unfolding. Clothes caught in real time, on real people.

The Judo Pants, featured in Look 5 in the collection, reflect that spirit of everyday movement. Cut from a substantial yet breathable cotton twill, they feature a wide, relaxed leg and a high-rise, paperbag-style waistband, finished with a tonal self-tie belt. Inspired by martial arts uniforms, the silhouette is structured but easy, with panelled knees that add shape and flexibility. Side seam pockets and a clean front keep the look simple and versatile.

Tagged Size 48

Measurements:

Waist: 53cm (uncinched)

Front rise: 35cm

Inseam: 69cm 

Thigh: 35cm

Knee: 28cm

Leg opening: 25cm