Protection was the key theme at Comme des Garcons. Designer Rei Kawakubo presented a modern and challenging collection that shielded the models by wrapping them in heavy fabrics and layers of defensive cloth. Fleece, corduroy and muted plaids were worked into bulky silhouettes as the Comme adventurers were shielded against the elements. Again pushing the idea of the kilt and skirts, Kawakubo layered them over trousers to enhance the concept of clothing acting as armour. Again the designer manages to question the role and traditions of menswear by challengng the norm. Taken apart, this collection offers fantastically wearable pieces in the form of soft shouldered double breasted jackets, feasible knit wear and slouchy trousers - all of which will appeal to Comme's stable customer base. Kawakubo has an unique ability to reflect the mood of contemporary fashion and foresees future ideas long before they are appropriated by the mainstream. This collection although laden with ominous overtones was a powerfull and authoritative comment of the current zeitgeist.

Report by Hywel Davies on 23 January 2010.