BRAND

Undercover, founded in 1993 by Jun Takahashi, is a Japanese streetwear brand that has garnered strong acclaim among streetwear enthusiasts worldwide. With a distinctive style influenced by street culture, punk, and Japanese aesthetics, Undercover has gained a dedicated following. The brand's collections are showcased at prestigious fashion events, including Paris Fashion Week, and its presence can be felt globally through its stockists. Undercover's punk and street-style aesthetics have propelled Jun Takahashi to prominence in the fashion world. His brand continues to thrive, earning acclaim from both industry insiders and passionate fans. The brand's milestone collaborations, fashion show presentations, and celebrity endorsements highlight Takahashi's influence and underscore the enduring appeal of Undercover.


HISTORY

Undercover, also known as Undercoverism, was established by Jun Takahashi, a Japanese fashion designer known for his unique creative vision. The brand has been hailed as "the essence of Japanese cool," offering meticulously crafted clothing pieces that are described by Takahashi himself as "strange, but beautiful." Undercover's innovative designs have earned numerous awards and accolades, including recognition from fashion luminaries such as Miuccia Prada and Rei Kawakubo. Jun Takahashi began his fashion journey in 1989 while studying at the Bunka Academy of Fashion. Undercover, with its stylistic references to punk and street fashion, has been a standout force in the fashion world. The brand quickly gained prominence and showcased its collections at major fashion shows in Tokyo and Paris. In 1993, Takahashi and Nigo, the founder of A Bathing Ape, opened the Nowhere store in Tokyo's Harajuku district, marking the true beginning of Undercover. The brand gained momentum, leading to the opening of another shop in Aoyama. Takahashi's designs graced the catwalks of Tokyo, and the establishment of "Nowhere LTD" further showcased the Nowhere brand. In 2002, Undercover made its debut at Paris Fashion Week, achieving great success and solidifying its international recognition. In 2003, Takahashi received two major design awards from the Mainichi Shimbun. Today, the brand enjoys a large cult following, renowned for its sought-after and high-end fashion pieces.


DESIGNER

Jun Takahashi, born in 1969 in Gunma Prefecture's city of Kiryu, is the creative force behind Undercover. He attended the Bunka Academy of Fashion, where his passion for design was nurtured. Takahashi's nickname, "Johnio," stemmed from his resemblance to Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols, a band he admired. His love for punk and subculture influences can be seen throughout his designs, incorporating elements of rebellion and unconventional aesthetics. Jun Takahashi's distinct style, heavily influenced by the Sex Pistols, sets Undercover apart in the fashion realm. Incorporating punk aesthetics and references to American pop culture, his designs often feature feminine cuts, vivid color printing, and tattered elements. Takahashi's success extends beyond fashion, as he collaborated with Canon to design a special edition camera case and guest-edited the Belgian A Magazine. Undercover's presence in Rei Kawakubo's Dover Street store in London further signifies its impact.