Fall 2009 | The Virdi-anne Lookbook

New York retailer First Among Equals was kind enough to share the lookbook of one of their latest arrivals–The Viridi-anne. We were fortunate to cover the label early last year as they presented this collection’s interesting similarities to the process of metamorphosis with the use of a back-lit presentation. Perhaps the best way to describe the collection’s relation to metamorphosis is to use the words of The Viridi-anne designer Tomoaki Okaniwa. Drawn to the chrysalis process of metamorphosis, Okaniwa explained that it represents “strength and enormous potential for positive change in uncertain times, an intention to remain discreet and undercover rather than showy and in your face. It represents protection and defense, self-camouflage and mystery. It is difficult to find and therefore rare and unusual. It outwardly resembles dark armor and stillness but within lays softness and intelligent activity.” It is in this vein that Okaniwa instills a rare beauty in his designs that is evident in both the construction and overall finish.