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.

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Taking inspiration from mountaineers and early explorers, The Viridi-anne’s latest collection, “Ecdysis”, which literally means the shedding of an outer layer of skin, is about transformation. “Ecdysis” represents designer Tomoaki Okaniwa’s desire to push his own boundaries and evolve. Returning to concepts of streetwear and sportswear, the collection is about great tailoring and style, but above all practicality.

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The Viridi-anne Spring 2010 Preview
“ECDYSIS” – The shedding of an outer layer of skin, as by insects and snakes.
ec·dy·sis n. pl. ec·dy·ses (-sz)

For his most recent collection titled “The Chrysalis”, Tomoaki Okaniwa, the designer of The Viridi-anne made a special fabric composed of polyester, wool, acrylic and nylon. Okaniwa’s inspiration comes from the natural process of change—metamorphosis. When displayed with a back-light, the fabric Okaniwa created is similar to the chrysalis stage of metamorphosis. The fashion industry is similar to the process of metamorphosis in that the ability to change and adapt with social and economic environments is a characteristic that each clothing label needs to possess. It is because of this parallel that Okaniwa chose metamorphosis as a style metaphor. “‘The Chrysalis’ 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 the chrysalis stage that is the most simple and offers the greatest protection. Okaniwa aims to bring these same elements to his collection. In a time of plight and uncertainty, Okaniwa wants his clothes to “reflect a philosophy of beauty” that gives the wearer strength and resolve.

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With its usual dark color palette and the pleasant appearance of light neutrals, Japanese brand, The Viridi-anne is back with its latest spring collection.  Season after season, the Viridi-anne presents an impeccable collection of not only stylish clothes, but unique fashion-forward shoes of excellent quality.  The stand out pieces of this spring’s collection has to be the cropped trousers and sandals.  This collection is accompanied by a spring forecast: less knee, and more straps.

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