Look 2, cape and dress
2023
Return to the source collection, autumn-winter 2023
Medium
wool, cotton, polyester, nylon and metal (fastenings)
Measurements
(a) 25.0 cm (centre back) 48.0 cm (sleeve length) (cape)
(b) 141.0 cm (centre back) 38.0 cm (waist, flat) (dress)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of the artist, 2025
© Comme des Garçons
Gallery location
Level 3, NGV International
About this work
Demonstrating Kawakubo’s interest in pattern-making and construction, this outfit from her 2023 Return to the Source collection, encapsulated the ways in which she disrupts dress conventions through proportion and deconstructionism. She has become known for setting herself and her team technical challenges or restraints – for example, not allowing any stitching or constructing entire garments from a single, repeated pattern piece.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
Japan
Inscription
(a) label, centre back neckline, woven gold on black synthetic fabric: COMME des GARÇONS
(b) label, centre back neckline printed black on cream synthetic fabric: COMME des GARÇONS
Accession Number
2025.795.a-b
Department
International Fashion and Textiles