UNDERCOVER’s otherworldly approach to fashion is a product of designer Jun Takashi’s pop culture influences. From movies like Star Wars and Planet of the Apes to music by the Sex Pistols and Joy Division, Takahashi is able to draw from colorful reference points in terms of graphics and overall creative direction. UNDERCOVER’s FW20 was heavily influenced by samurai culture, namely, film director Akira Kurosawa’s legendary samurai flicks. The collection consisted of trousers and outerwear that channeled Japanese warriors’ armor and war uniforms. The presentation was also one of the brand’s most memorable and the release of the designs were hotly-anticipated.

In addition to Takahashi’s seasonal drops, UNDERCOVER also continued its partnership with Nike to produce a few sneaker models. There was the galaxy-speckled React Presto from the beginning of the year and the Nike ISPA OverReact which was teased for a possible 2021 release. Collaborations with sacai, a release of a new zine and a Dr. Martens boot drop also happened in 2020.