BRAND

Y-3 is a pioneering collaboration between renowned fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto and sportswear giant adidas. Established in 2003, Y-3 represents the fusion of fashion and sportswear, setting the stage for the intersection of these two industries. The brand's visionary approach and avant-garde aesthetic have placed it ahead of its time, influencing the likes of Raf Simons and Rick Owens in their subsequent collaborations with adidas. Y-3 embodies the meeting point of high fashion and athletic apparel, delivering unique and cutting-edge designs.


HISTORY

Yohji Yamamoto, already a legend in avant-garde fashion, embarked on the Y-3 collaboration with adidas when he felt disillusioned with the fashion industry's lack of excitement. Initially approaching Nike, Yamamoto turned to adidas after being told that Nike was solely focused on sportswear. adidas, recognizing the opportunity, embraced the collaboration, a move that shocked the industry at the time. The debut Y-3 collection showcased over 60 looks, featuring Yamamoto's creative interpretation of adidas' iconic three stripes. The collection received overwhelming praise, paving the way for Y-3's success. Despite occasional missteps, Y-3 continued to flourish, capturing the essence of sportswear charm blended with Yamamoto's signature aesthetic. The brand's output expanded beyond clothing to include a wide range of sneakers, which became highly sought after and cemented Y-3's influence in the designer sneaker market. With each passing season, Y-3 pushed boundaries and defied expectations, establishing itself as a commercially successful collaboration. 
Throughout its history, Y-3 has celebrated numerous milestones, showcasing its collections through theatrical runway shows that captivate audiences. Notably, Y-3's Fall/Winter 2007 collection, held on the basketball court of Hunter College in New York City, demonstrated the increasing sophistication and creativity of the brand. In 2008, Y-3 opened its first standalone store in New York's West Village, receiving praise for its accessible appeal and popularizing the collaboration among a wider audience. The brand's sneakers, including the iconic Qasa design released in 2013, have become highly coveted in the sneaker culture and have contributed to Y-3's commercial success. Over the years, Y-3's futuristic aesthetic and ability to merge fashion with athletic wear have positioned it as a pioneer in the industry. As Yohji Yamamoto continues to shape the brand, Y-3 remains a testament to the harmonious collaboration between fashion and sportswear, pushing boundaries and setting trends that defy convention.


DESIGNER

Yohji Yamamoto, the creative force behind Y-3, is an iconic figure in the fashion world. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, his eponymous label had already established him as a legendary avant-garde designer. The collaboration with adidas breathed new life into Yamamoto's creativity, offering a sporty yet elegant platform for his ideas. Known for his masterful eye for volume and proportion, Yamamoto's designs perfectly complemented adidas' sportswear heritage. Y-3's success has not only influenced the fashion landscape but has also inspired a new generation of designers. The collaboration's impact is evident in the work of other notable designers, such as Jun Takahashi, who now have recurring collections with major sportswear brands. Yamamoto's forward-thinking vision and commitment to experimentation continue to shape the evolution of Y-3, solidifying its position as a groundbreaking brand.