IM MEN SS27 Explores East Asian Artistry in "In Praise of Bamboo Shadows"
The Paris presentation introduces nature-driven textiles, architectural pleating techniques, and the latest ASICS footwear project.
Summary
IM MEN debuted its Spring Summer 2027 collection at the Césure cultural venue in Paris
The collection draws creative inspiration from East Asian decorative arts, ink wash landscapes, and traditional katazome stencils
The runway featured a graphic collaboration with Rikako Nagashima alongside a new technical sneaker with ASICS
IM MEN has officially unveiled its Spring/Summer 2027 collection, titled “In Praise of Bamboo Shadows,” at the Césure cultural venue in Paris. Inspired by East Asian decorative arts and traditional katazome kimono dyeing stencils discovered at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the collection translates the quiet elegance and enigmatic atmosphere of nature into highly technical, modern apparel.
The collection progresses through an intricate study of textile manipulation across specialized design series. The core BAMBOO SHADOWS capsule incorporates patterns by graphic designer Rikako Nagashima, utilizing a traditional Japanese ironaki iron-dyeing technique on bamboo fiber and organic cotton blends. Other structural capsules include BLOOM NYLON, which draws volume inspiration from the multi-layered jūnihitoe kimonos of Japanese folklore via high-density, paper-like nylon, and BAMBOO BLEACH, an artisan-crafted discharge-printed denim. Additionally, the line leverages advanced construction techniques like the BASKET JACQUARD stretch fabrication—woven from a single rectangular pattern mimicking bamboo weaving techniques—alongside rhythmic, hand-pleated NODE PLEATS and BAMBOO PLEATS.
Beyond traditional silhouettes, the brand experimented with negative space in its VOID COTTON series, removing pockets to alter layering visibility. The accessory range introduced the CHIMAKI LEATHER BAG, an oiled-leather piece modeled after traditional bamboo-wrapped steamed glutinous rice.
The runway presentation also served as the debut for the “SORTIE VEILED” sneaker, marking the second official release under the ISSEY MIYAKE FOOT project in partnership with ASICS. Based on an archival 1980s ASICS marathon silhouette, the monochromatic shoe encloses its structural and reinforcement elements within a clean, continuous fabric outer layer to bridge sports performance with everyday utility.
