Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces that it will launch the UNIQLO x Marimekko Limited Edition Capsule Collection on Friday, 21 May 2021. The theme for this latest collaboration with Finnish design house Marimekko is Joyful Summer, taking its inspiration from Nordic midsummer traditions and the sun’s invigorating warmth during that time of year.
Commenting on the new collection, Yuki Katsuta, Head of Research & Development at UNIQLO Co., Ltd., says, “We are delighted to collaborate with Marimekko once again and particularly pleased to feature, for the first time, patterns that Japan’s Fujiwo Ishimoto designed for Marimekko. His prints, which combine Scandinavian design with Japanese elements, are bold yet delicate, and unique.”
He added, “Our latest line brings together signature UNIQLO simplicity and Marimekko’s playful prints and is designed for experiencing good times with families and friends. I hope these colourful items will energise people everywhere this summer.”
Image source: UNIQLO x Marimekko
“We are proud to partner with UNIQLO again for this latest Limited Edition Capsule Collection inspired by the joy and optimism of Nordic midsummer. The print selection was chosen to reflect the beauty and energy of this magical time of year – Marimekko’s rich, summery patterns together with UNIQLO’s functional wardrobe staples evoke the perfect summer ease. The collection showcases prints by some of Marimekko’s most iconic designers, from Fujiwo Ishimoto’s exquisite floral designs to Annika Rimala’s lively stripes. We believe the language of design is universal and hope this collection will bring people around the world a big splash of summer joy,” says Minna Kemell-Kutvonen, Design Director for Home and Print Design at Marimekko.
Image source: UNIQLO x Marimekko
Iconic Marimekko prints by Fujiwo Ishimoto and Annika Rimala
The new lineup augments UNIQLO simplicity with seven bright prints from four designers in Marimekko’s archive. A highlight is work from Fujiwo Ishimoto, who created 400 patterns for Marimekko from 1974 to 2006. Three prints that embody Finnish nature were selected for this collection.
The Finnish midsummer custom of picking flowers inspired his Seitsemän kukkaa (seven flowers) design. His other prints seen in the collection are the exuberant Talkoot (work party) floral design and the Pikkulempi (little love) pattern, representing flowers in a meadow.
The collection also features the Aitanovi (cottage door) and Aita (fence) prints from Annika Rimala, renowned especially for her in modernistic and rhythmical designs.
Image source: UNIQLO x Marimekko
A wide range of denims, dresses and accessories perfect for summer fun
The relaxing Denim V-Neck Blouse for women pairs perfectly with a Denim Long Skirt with the same pattern. Girls’ sleeveless dresses have the same patterns as women’s camisole dresses for mother and daughter coordination. Such colourful accessories as a wide-brimmed hat, shoulder bag, and espadrille sandals add a playful touch to the denim styling.
There is also a wide range of cut-and-sewn and jersey fabric items.
The collection also includes gorgeous graphic T-shirts, comfortable jersey dresses, and babies’ dresses and leggings in yellow, magenta, and other vivid hues to enhance the enjoyment of mixing and matching patterns.
