Kenzo Says Roar!
How one fierce sweatshirt has taken the fashion world by storm
If we had to name one trend that surpassed all others in the past year it would be the sweatshirt. Staying true to its comfortable nature, the sweatshirt is now the go-to piece for fashionistas everywhere. While the elusive Brian Lichtenberg Homies slogan made waves, one Parisian fashion house increased in popularity all with the help of a tiger. Kenzo’s infamous tiger sweatshirt was dubbed a must-have from the moment Karlie Kloss opened the AW12 show wearing the statement piece. The collection featured a few different colours but the two that really went stratospheric were the emerald green and grey marl styles.
Humberto Leon and Carol Kim took over the reigns of Kenzo in 2012 after a decade together at uber cool Opening Ceremony in downtown Manhattan. Following on from the east meets west influence of founder Kenzo Takada, the duo have played to their strengths season after season, maintaining the traditional elements of the brand with a side of New York hipster chic. The tiger sweatshirt is a reworking of one of the brands classic motifs from the archives and has rapidly become one of the most recognisable pieces from the collection since it’s re-entry onto the catwalk.
Each version of the iconic sweatshirt focuses on the vibrancy of the tiger motif, often against a simple colour to incorporate it into the everyday wardrobe. It’s not hard to see why models, celebrities and bloggers have snapped up a piece of the action, with everyone from Joan Smalls to Jessica Alba rocking the roar. The sweatshirt sold out within two days of its official launch but you can now get it at Net-a-Porter, Matches Fashion, Luisaviaroma and other online retailers. Style over a shirt for a preppy look with a mini, or keep it casual in leather leggings. Our absolute favourite styling pairs the sweatshirt with a glitzy pencil skirt for a daytime glamour.
