
+J is intelligent clothing, but you’d never have to understand patternmaking or garment finishing to know that. This was a fitting send-off to the partnership, comprised primarily of her signature items: Egyptian cotton shirting, slouchy knitwear and uncomplicated wool outerwear that epitomized the clean lines and refined textiles of the Jil Sander brand. +J folded two years later, but Sander reunited briefly with UNIQLO in 2014 to issue a brief “greatest hits” collection. And I like what is Japanese about UNIQLO, a strong sense of tradition, the orderly approach to everything, great know-how and logistics.” “UNIQLO reminds me of Apple computers fantastic design for everyone. “I like the concept of basic clothes in a democratic world,” Sander said in a 2009 statement. “UNIQLO reminds me of Apple computers fantastic design for everyone.” These core elements drove the sub-label to become what UNIQLO executives reportedly described as “its most successful of all time.” Despite its high-profile nature - famed photographer David Sims lensed the sleek campaigns and its debut co-ed collection included a whopping 140 pieces - +J was epitomized by two tenets: simplicity and affordability. Specifically, Sander created and oversaw the +J line. In between off-again-on-again tenures at her eponymous label, Sander launched her own fashion consultancy and immediately began working with fast fashion company UNIQLO. +J seasonally delivered thoughtful design, down to the little details (“the most expensive felt, and real buttons, NOT plastic, which we hate.”), and even a little bit of fun (see: Spring/Summer 2011’s cargo-pocketed field jacket) without toeing the line of good taste. This was the last year of the larger-than-life aughts and Sander was imploring the world - or at least the fashion industry - to grow up.ĭaily life called for cost-effective uniform pieces that could be mixed and matched effortlessly - Sander delivered in spades. Remember, the same year that Sander and UNIQLO initially partnered for premium down jackets and fine wool blazers, Kanye West stormed Taylor Swift’s VMA acceptance speech and the $2.9 billion USD-grossing Avatar reshaped the definition of blockbuster. “, Sander was imploring the world to grow up.” Just like today, the world was battling a recession and clothing design demanded a back-to-basics approach in favor of frippery. The colours reflect the chromatic palette of northern light with indigo echoing summer night skies that contrasts well with ivory, caramel, grey and khaki.It’s inarguable that the world is oversaturated with cheap “essentials” but 2009’s debut +J collection delivered understated staples years before silver-tongued startups sourced multi-million-dollar funding on the strength of unbranded T-shirts and jeans. Natural fibres are mainly used to combine comfort and effortless style together with luxurious texture and sheen. Through thoughtful design, the essential pieces champion versatility and practicality so that they could be worn outdoors. In line with its theme, controlled sculptural tailoring is used to highlight movement, lightness and space. Jil Sander says that the overall idea is still sophisticated but blended with a kind of purity that lets us think of regeneration and a fresh start. The pieces are reduced to their purest form, emphasising harp silhouettes with airy clarity. The new collection captures the sense of emerging from the darkness of winter and enjoying the energy and lightness of spring, which seems to coincide with the spring season in Japan. The collection is a continuation of last season's return of Uniqlo's collaboration with fashion designer, Jil Sander who brought her signature modern style to the collection for both men and women. Japanese apparel retailer, Uniqlo has announced the launch of the J+ Spring/Summer 2021 collection which will be available in stores and online from March 19.
