Drawing inspiration from the traditional culture and craftsmanship of Japan, and specifically cherry blossoms and “Sakuramochi”, adidas have collaborated with NIGO, the artistic director for KENZO as well as the designer for Human Made, to create a special collection for the Japanese national team.
Some teams just seem to get all the luck when it comes to kits. Not content with an outstanding home and away pairing for the upcoming World Cup, Japan now have a special edition kit that’s landed as part of a wider collection from a partnership between adidas and Human Made designer, NIGO. Japan's men's and women's national football team will wear the kit at the training session the day before the next international friendly match in November.
Inspired by the traditional culture and craftsmanship of Japan, the Special Collection features a minimalistic and classical design approach, with the combination of pale mauve and fresh green reflecting the symbolic colours of cherry blossoms and “Sakuramochi,” the seasonal confectionery, widely loved and enjoyed for years by people in Japan.
Along with the unique colour combination, the back of the jersey makes further reference to the beloved flower – the cherry blossom emblem featuring the iconic heart motif that NIGO is known for. Hidden inside of the collar is the special “OGIN” signature, adding another unique detail to the minimalistic design of the jersey. The number 22, featured on the back of the jersey, is then an obvious nod to the year. As if you needed that explaining.
Speaking about the collection, NIGO said: “The simplistic design of the Special Collection was inspired by the symbolic culture of Japan such as Cherry Blossoms, the national flower of Japan, as well as Sakuramochi, the Japanese confectionery that shows the very best of Japanese craftmanship. It is my hope that beyond any boundaries, between players and supporters or one nation and the rest of the world, we all can unite under football and share a common joy.”
The Special Collection is made using 100% recycled polyester, continuing adidas’ ongoing commitment to help end plastic waste.
The Japan Special Collection will be available exclusively on the Confirmed app starting today. It will also be available for purchase on adidas.com Japan National Team and the adidas app, at adidas stores and authorised retailers from October 28th onwards.
