The Atsushi Nakashima Spring Summer 2024 Collection, titled “Give Back,” is the circularity project initiated by the Japanese designer in the aftermath of the global pandemic. This unique collection, which was exclusively premiered through a fashion film in Shibuya, Tokyo, in November 2023, tells a compelling story of sustainability and regeneration.
“Give Back” is centered around the concept of clothes being more than just garments; they are part of a cycle that begins and ends with the Earth. This collection showcases clothing that, after its use, can be returned to the soil. Through biological processes, these garments are broken down and restored to their original state. This cycle – from soil to plants, to threads, fabrics, and back to clothes – epitomizes the unchanging mass of matter on Earth and the natural world’s ability to maintain and restore its balance, which has often been disturbed by human activities.
In crafting this collection, Atsushi Nakashima has focused on using natural materials, drawing inspiration from the natural transitions and drapes found in the environment. The designs subtly express the process of decomposition, with partial fraying representing the return to nature. This concept is enhanced by the use of natural tones throughout the collection, respecting and reflecting the inherent beauty of the natural world.
A key piece in the collection is the white dress, symbolizing the energy of nature created by light. This piece, like the rest of the collection, tells a story about the relationship between human creation and the natural world.