Men's Undercover

Pronunciation [ˌʌndə(r)ˈkʌvə(r)]

Etymology reflects Takahashi’s desire to keep the brand suspicious and mysterious

Est. 1990

Founder Jun Takahashi

Jun Takahashi’s Undercover was among the pioneers of the Japanese streetwear phenomenon. Products of the brand reflect the passion for fine materials and craftsmanship, as well as a considerable knowledge of European and American fashion and culture history that is always eminent in graphic references and details. All this has obtained Undercover a cult status both at home and across the world.

‘Takahashi has absorbed the best of two cultures: the avant-garde of Comme Des Garçons and the subculture roots which nourish 70% of his music references. Yet, you never know what his next collection will be about. Bam, he dedicates it to the circus. He never stops evolving.’

Consistently following the legacy of Vivienne Westwood, Comme des Garçons and punk rock, Takahashi has anticipated the contemporary fashion scene. For thirty years already, Undercover has been virtuosically integrating simple, silk-screened T-shirts with artsy, phantasmagoric fashion shows in Paris.

‘He is the only Japanese designer [that could be termed streetwear — ed.] who is acclaimed by the aesthetic audience, journalists and critics alike. They adore him because they understand that everything he does is art. Yet, his brand remains deeply rooted in its original culture.’