BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack ‘Green’
October 22, 2024
The BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack ‘Green’ represents a connection that merges two prominent forces in the streetwear landscape: Japan’s A Bathing Ape (BAPE) and READYMADE, a brand known for its upcycled materials and military-inspired aesthetic. This connection, highlighted by the Fieldpack, exemplifies the growing trend of fashion brands utilizing sustainable materials while maintaining street credibility and high-fashion appeal. The result is a product that’s functional, aesthetically unique, and a symbol of the evolving intersection between sustainability and luxury in streetwear.
To fully appreciate the BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack, it’s essential to understand the history and cultural significance of both brands involved. BAPE, founded by Nigo in 1993, is a pioneer in Japanese streetwear, known for its bold graphics, camouflage patterns, and star-studded collaborations. The brand has long been a symbol of high-end street fashion, worn by some of the biggest names in hip-hop and pop culture.
READYMADE, on the other hand, is a newer player, launched by Yuta Hosokawa in 2013. The brand’s ethos is rooted in repurposing military surplus materials, creating products that carry a sense of history and craftsmanship. READYMADE’s distinct aesthetic is a blend of utilitarian design and luxury, often featuring deconstructed elements and oversized silhouettes.
The flow between BAPE and READYMADE brings together these two worlds, fusing BAPE’s iconic streetwear sensibilities with READYMADE’s commitment to sustainability and military-inspired designs. The result is a product that not only speaks to the history and expertise of both brands but also aligns with the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly and sustainable fashion.
The BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack ‘Green’ stands out primarily due to its bold, military-inspired design. The bag’s exterior is made from recycled and upcycled military fabrics, in line with READYMADE’s signature style. This use of repurposed materials gives the Fieldpack a rugged, worn-in look that contrasts sharply with BAPE’s more polished, graphic-heavy designs. However, the juxtaposition works well, creating a bag that feels both modern and vintage.
The green colorway of the Fieldpack is a direct nod to military uniforms and equipment, giving the bag a utilitarian feel that’s further emphasized by its structure and hardware. The design includes multiple compartments, straps, and adjustable features, making it not only a fashion statement but also highly functional. This practicality is one of the key aspects of the collaboration—both brands have created a product that appeals to consumers who value utility alongside aesthetic.
The bag features READYMADE’s signature deconstructed style, with visible seams, raw edges, and an intentionally imperfect finish. This design philosophy speaks to the idea of fashion as an evolving, lived-in experience rather than a pristine, untouchable commodity. The Fieldpack’s worn appearance gives it a sense of authenticity, as though it has a history and narrative of its own, which aligns perfectly with READYMADE’s approach to using upcycled materials.
Despite READYMADE’s heavy influence on the design, BAPE’s presence is undeniable. The iconic APE HEAD logo appears subtly on the bag, as does BAPE’s signature camouflage print, integrated into the fabric in a way that feels understated yet unmistakable. This blending of BAPE’s bold, recognizable elements with READYMADE’s more subdued, utilitarian style is one of the collaboration’s most impressive feats. It allows the Fieldpack to stand out as a unique item in both brands’ portfolios while maintaining a balance between their distinct aesthetics.
A key element of the BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack is its emphasis on sustainability. READYMADE has built its brand on the use of upcycled military materials, and this collaboration stays true to that ethos. The Fieldpack is constructed from military surplus fabrics, which not only gives it a unique texture and appearance but also aligns with the growing demand for more eco-conscious fashion.
The use of upcycled materials in a collaboration with BAPE is particularly significant. As a major player in the streetwear world, BAPE has traditionally been associated with high-end, high-consumption fashion. This collaboration, however, signals a shift in BAPE’s approach, as it aligns with READYMADE’s sustainable values. The Fieldpack, in this sense, becomes more than just a fashion item—it becomes a statement about the future of the industry and the importance of sustainability in streetwear.
The upcycling of military materials also ties into the broader cultural narrative surrounding streetwear’s appropriation of utilitarian and workwear aesthetics. Over the past decade, streetwear has increasingly drawn inspiration from military gear, work uniforms, and other functional clothing, repurposing these items into fashion statements. The Fieldpack is a continuation of this trend, but with a more authentic edge thanks to READYMADE’s commitment to using actual surplus materials rather than merely mimicking the look.
This focus on sustainability does not detract from the luxury aspect of the bag, however. Despite being made from upcycled materials, the Fieldpack is meticulously crafted, with attention to detail in its stitching, hardware, and overall construction. The use of high-quality zippers, straps, and metal clasps ensures that the bag is not only stylish but also durable and functional, able to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
One of the standout features of the BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack is its functionality. Unlike many high-fashion bags that prioritize aesthetics over utility, the Fieldpack is designed to be used. Its military-inspired design includes multiple compartments and pockets, providing ample space for carrying essentials. The adjustable straps allow for customization in terms of fit and comfort, making it suitable for a range of activities—from everyday urban use to more rugged outdoor adventures.
Impression
The BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack is more than just a functional bag—it’s a symbol of the current state of streetwear and fashion collaborations. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability, with consumers becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases. At the same time, the luxury fashion market has seen a rise in demand for streetwear-inspired designs, blurring the lines between high fashion and everyday wear.
This collaboration sits at the intersection of these two trends, offering a product that is both environmentally conscious and fashion-forward. The Fieldpack appeals to a new generation of consumers who value sustainability but still want to invest in high-quality, designer products. In this sense, the collaboration is a reflection of the evolving streetwear market, where functionality, sustainability, and style are increasingly intertwined.
Moreover, the Fieldpack’s limited-edition status ensures that it maintains a sense of exclusivity, a hallmark of streetwear culture. By producing the bag in limited quantities, BAPE and READYMADE tap into the desire for scarcity, making the Fieldpack a coveted item for collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The BAPE x READYMADE Fieldpack ‘Green’ is a standout piece in the world of streetwear collaborations. It successfully merges the distinct aesthetics of both brands while prioritizing sustainability and functionality. By using upcycled military materials, the Fieldpack not only offers a unique look but also aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious fashion. At the same time, its practical design and modular functionality ensure that it’s not just a fashion statement but also a highly usable product.
As streetwear continues to evolve, connections like this one between BAPE and READYMADE point to a future where sustainability, utility, and style coexist in a way that appeals to both luxury and environmentally conscious consumers. The Fieldpack is more than just a bag—it’s a symbol of where streetwear is headed.
