French Judo Team To Sport KENZO's FW23 Kimonos at the 2024 Olympics
Nodding to the sport’s Japanese origins, Nigo’s designs take a celebratory “East-meets-West” approach to the traditional garment.
At the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris this summer, KENZO will outfit the French Judo Team in custom designs that nod to the sport’s Japanese origins. Supporting the squad, creative director Nigo has dreamt up Kimono-inspired suits akin to those that debuted on the House’s Fall/Winter 2023 runway.
“The Kimono is a garment that underwent various changes since its creation in Japan in the 8th century,” KENZO said in a statement. “At its peak during the Edo era — characterized by economic growth, national stability and enjoyment of the arts — regardless of the wearer’s age, gender or social status, it is still worn during Japan’s significant events as a reminder of the country’s core culture.”
The garment has undergone several changes in the world of judo, too. Over the years, the sport has swapped out the design’s traditionally lighter build for thicker materials to maximize grip and anchorage. Additionally, the silhouette has grown longer and more voluminous to promote free movement in the Japanese practice.
Here, Nigo’s “East-meets-West” interpretation of the Kimono looks to celebrate the team’s successes on sports’ largest global stage. The French team members will wear the KENZO Kimono suit while appearing at several official events throughout the Summer Games. Take a look at the design in the gallery above.
