Unveiling the Rare and Remarkable: A Comme des Garçons Auction Extravaganza
In the world of fashion, there's an upcoming event that's sure to captivate both collectors and enthusiasts alike. A unique auction, set to take place in London, is about to showcase a treasure trove of rare Comme des Garçons pieces, offering a glimpse into the brand's rich history and its enduring appeal.
The Comme des Garçons Legacy
Comme des Garçons, a name synonymous with avant-garde fashion, has a reputation that precedes it. Yet, beneath the surface of its bold and unconventional designs lies a versatility and comfort that many might not expect. This dichotomy is at the heart of the brand's allure, and it's a perspective that Alex Baddeley, the director of Kerry Taylor Auctions, brings to light.
A Collector's Passion
Octavius La Rosa, an Australian collector and vintage dealer, is the driving force behind this extraordinary auction. With a personal collection of approximately 4,000 Comme des Garçons pieces, La Rosa has carefully curated 265 items for sale, including some of the brand's earliest creations and iconic pieces from designer Rei Kawakubo's groundbreaking Paris runway shows.
Among the highlights are a black polyurethane raincoat with intricate knot details and a wool pantsuit from the fall 1982 "Pirates" collection. These pieces, expected to fetch thousands of pounds, showcase the brand's unique blend of functionality and artistic expression.
Museum-Worthy Pieces
What makes La Rosa's collection truly exceptional is his deep understanding and appreciation for the brand. Baddeley describes it as "museum quality" in its appeal, a collection that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also academically rigorous. La Rosa's passion for Comme des Garçons is evident, and it's this passion that has driven him to amass such an impressive array of pieces.
Funding a Fashion Evolution
La Rosa's decision to part with these precious items is a strategic move to fund the expansion of his business, Dot Comme. With plans to move to a larger location in Melbourne and open a second outpost in Paris, he aims to create a resource hub for fashion historians, designers, and museums. He also hopes to organize exhibitions and offer a rental service, further cementing his role as a key player in the fashion industry.
The Hunt for Comme
La Rosa's journey as a collector has taken him to online auctions and thrift shops in Japan, where he has scored some of his most prized Comme des Garçons finds. His passion for the brand began with a desire to wear its unique designs, but his love for organizing and categorizing led him to blend his two passions, creating a comprehensive and impressive collection.
A World Record and Growing Interest
Kerry Taylor Auctions has set a world record for a Comme des Garçons design, with a "major museum" paying 65,000 pounds for a piece from the fall 1982 "Holes" collection. This, coupled with Baddeley's observation of a burgeoning interest in Japanese design and fashion auctions, suggests a growing appreciation for the unique and the unconventional.
"Fashion has become quite boring," Baddeley notes, "and Comme des Garçons has never played it safe. Wearing these pieces makes you feel different and special."
A Story-Telling Auction
The upcoming auction is more than just a sale; it's an opportunity to tell a story and curate a unique experience. With single-owner sales, Baddeley believes there's a greater ability to showcase the collector's passion and vision, creating an even more special event.
As we anticipate this extraordinary auction, it's clear that Comme des Garçons continues to captivate and inspire, offering a refreshing take on fashion that challenges the ordinary and celebrates the extraordinary. Personally, I can't wait to see how these rare pieces find new homes and continue to tell their story.
