Tricot—a name that translates to ‘knit’ in French—began as Rei Kawakubo’s softer, more intimate offshoot of Comme des Garcons in 1981. Seven years later, Junya Watanabe took over, guiding the line beyond its knitwear origins into a broader, more accessible wardrobe while preserving the brand’s experimental edge.
Tricot became a quiet favorite among those who appreciated its gentle take on casual womenswear. The line balanced Comme des Garçons’ avant-garde DNA with a more grounded, wearable approach, often playing with layering, asymmetry, deconstruction, and charming details like whimsical buttons, delicate embroideries, and playful ruffles.
When Junya moved on, he passed the torch to Tao Kurihara, a perfect successor who brought her nuanced vision to the line. In 2020, Tricot closed its chapter, merging with Kurihara’s underrated line Tao Comme des Garçons and re-emerging as TAO. A fresh canvas for Kurihara’s more conceptual and theatrical designs while retaining the spirit of wearability.
This pleated leather bag is a love letter to Tricot’s legacy. Its supple cowhide, gathered into frilly pleats, pairs beautifully with a metal clasp and a cable chain.
