Stella McCartney and Yoshitomo Nara Put Activism At The Centre Of Their Second Collaboration

Yoshitomo Nara's striking illustrations unite a new generation of changemakers around shared activism, bringing colour and youthful rebellion to the signature Stella McCartney wardrobe. Not the first time the pair have collaborated; their previous collection marked Nara's first venture into fashion early last year, one that brought such success, there was no doubt a second collaboration would be on the cards. 'In our first collaboration, Stella chose which of my artworks she wanted to use and played around with them freely when integrating them into her designs', noted Nara in a statement. 'This time, I selected the artworks I wanted her to use, and she once again had the freedom to place them as she wished in her pieces.' McCartney also worked with Nara on her S/S 23 collection, where Nara's poignant slogan CHANGE THE HISTORY informed the entire show.

Carefully curating a 'concise edit of rare collector's items', the collection features Nara's iconic drawings and countercultural slogans. Not only sharing a passion for the arts, McCartney and Nara are similar in more ways than one, bound together by their inspiring attitude that centres their signature styles around celebrating youth in revolt, something that is also undeniably channelled in their latest collaboration.

Both ready to wear and vegan accessories are elevated with richer textiles and techniques. Cotton jersey t-shirts, fleece hoodies and joggers appear in a neutral palette while featuring Nara illustrations of gazing girls, children dressed as animals and timely anti-war messaging like 'STOP THE BOMBS'; a pertinent message considering all that is happening in Ukraine. Knitwear has been graced with a humorous touch this season, featuring ironic illustrations of sheep, rabbits and other animals on crewneck jumpers, ribbed cotton roll necks and marled grey vests.

As fashion and fun imagery become vehicles for powerful messages, the collaboration makes sure to provoke rather than attack, acting as a means to push for much-needed conversation and action that they are both equally passionate about. 'Stella has an iron will, with heart', Nara also noted in a press release, commenting on her defiant attitude when it comes to her unwavering activism and support for the planet.