At the Fall/Winter 2025 Paris Fashion Week, Colm Dillane, the visionary behind KidSuper, unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with the iconic streetwear brand BAPE. This alliance marks a significant milestone in the fashion industry, blending KidSuper’s avant-garde artistry with BAPE’s renowned streetwear aesthetics.

Genesis of the Partnership

Dillane’s admiration for BAPE dates back to his youth. Reflecting on this journey, he shared, “I’ve been a fan of BAPE since I was a kid—it’s one of those brands that’s always had a huge cultural presence.” Early in his career, Dillane screen-printed shirts for individuals queuing at BAPE releases, making this partnership a full-circle moment. He emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “It wasn’t just about reworking existing designs but about figuring out how to bring both of our perspectives together.”

Exploring BAPE’s Archives

The creative process commenced in Tokyo, where teams from both brands delved into BAPE’s extensive archives at BAPELAND. This exploration unearthed legendary pieces, sparking inspiration for the collection. The collaboration was characterized by a mutual exchange of ideas, with both teams contributing to the unique designs.

Collection Highlights

The “BAPE by KidSuper” collection offers a diverse range of apparel and accessories, each piece reflecting the synergy between the two brands. Key items include:

•SUPER CAMO Pattern: A novel take on BAPE’s classic camouflage, this pattern integrates KidSuper’s signature face motif, resulting in a distinctive design.

•World Gone Super Shark Hoodie: A playful reinterpretation of BAPE’s iconic Shark Hoodie, featuring a grinning shark graphic set against the SUPER CAMO backdrop.

•SUPER SASHIKO BAPE STA Sneakers: These unique sneakers are meticulously crafted using antique Japanese fabrics and intricate embroidery, showcasing a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.

The collection also encompasses outerwear, tops, bottoms, hats, and footwear, each item exemplifying the creative fusion of both brands.

Anticipated Release

The “BAPE by KidSuper” collection is slated for a Spring 2025 release. While specific dates and pricing details are yet to be announced, the anticipation surrounding this partnership suggests a high demand upon launch.

The KidSuper x BAPE partnership signifies a harmonious blend of two distinct creative visions, resulting in a collection that honors the heritage of both brands while pushing the boundaries of contemporary streetwear. As the fashion world eagerly awaits the release, this collaboration stands as a testament to the innovative spirit that defines both KidSuper and BAPE.

 

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