ISSEY MIYAKE SS25: Surrealism in Bloom

By: Daphne Zhu

Issey Miyake SS25

Nestled in the bustle of New York Fashion Week, Issey Miyake SS25 gently beckons us to explore The Beauty of Paper. Delicate and dreamlike, the collection brings to life paper’s tactile beauty and history. Drawing inspiration from washi, traditional Japanese paper, the designs go beyond functionality to evoke a sense of purity and grounding. Showcased on Friday, September 27 at Paris' Parc Floral, the brand asks: 

“What is it about paper that makes us feel at ease? Starting with this question, the research and development of the collection focused on the history, making, and craft of paper. These findings inspired the materials, techniques, and designs through a variety of experimental sartorial studies.”

The collection, under the creative direction of Satoshi Kondo, honors papermaking through pieces constructed from traditional Japanese techniques. Kamiko (washi garments) are made with 100% hemp fibers, a historic artisanal practice in Japan.

Issey Miyake SS25

A standout design, the Pressed Flora prints are reminiscent of pressing flowers between pages—peonies, ranunculus, and asparagus leaves—immortalizing them. These accidental folds in the fabric mirror the fragility of both paper and the flowers themselves.  

Issey Miyake SS25

The collection cleverly plays with the Paper Bag, gracefully blending functionality with elegance. They are made from fabric woven with washi flakes, and are able to hold their shape while retaining the weightlessness and texture of paper. 

Issey Miyake SS25

Even the seating at the show immersed the audience in the nature-inspired environment. The stools were crafted from compressed paper cylinders used in Miyake’s pleating process; the passage of time etched in their marbled, tree-ring patterns. The lightness of the space—white backdrop, natural sunlight—works in harmony with the organic nature of the collection. 

Issey Miyake SS25

Perhaps one of the most whimsical details was the floral eyewear. These botanical glasses brought a playful charm to an otherwise minimalist look—making it feel like we’re seeing the world through actual rose-colored glasses. Evoking serenity through earthy textures, The Beauty of Paper pays tribute to nature’s raw elements and celebrates the whimsical, childlike nature paper can inspire.