2006 AW - Checked Jacket (M26)

Part of the “Lost Enpire” autumn-winter season of 2006.

A jacket full of British elements, featuring checks, gold buttons, and more.
Comme des Garçons spring show felt more literal than usual, was surprising for a brand known for intellectual subtlety.
The collection seemed to reference British elements, but Rei Kawakubo denied any intention to focus on England, British souvenirs, or support for a bombed city.
Kawakubo acknowledged references to "a lost Empire," but emphasized that the main concept was "cutting without a pattern."
The collection was considered "mild" for Kawakubo, a departure from her usual avant-garde approach, suggesting that even creative geniuses have off seasons.