Designer Spotlight: Takashi Murakami

Streetwear fashion and art go so well together. Because this particular kind of fashion style is big on self-expression, unique looks are embraced and always encouraged. When it comes to streetwear art, there is one name that stands out – Takashi Murakami.

Takashi Murakami is one of the most popular names in streetwear fashion. He has worked with several big brands in the industry including Virgil Abloh, Louis Vuitton, Supreme and Comme Des Garcons. While he did not start out as a designer, he has made big waves (and continues to do so) in the streetwear fashion industry.

Murakami started out as a contemporary artist and sculptor and his works gained notoriety in exhibits. Being a big fan of anime and manga, Takashi incorporated this into his art style. In 2001, he founded an art movement called ‘Superflat’, which is heavily influenced by anime and manga. This kind of art has been categorized as Japanese Pop Art and quickly became an international phenomenon.

Thanks to his newfound fame, Takashi caught the eye of the fashion industry. One of his first fashion collaborations was with Marc Jacobs in 2003, who was the creative director of Louis Vuitton at the time. The duo created one of the most famous LV bags of all time – the white handbag decorated with bubble gum colored LV monograms. The popular purse was seen carried by the likes of Paris Hilton, Gwen Stefani and other A-list celebs.

photo: @takashipom

Takashi’s art-infused fashion did not stop there. The famed artist went on to make successful collaborations and became a global sensation. His signature look is the flower, which is often multicoloured, smiling and fun. His flowers have graced several popular products, stuffed toys, home decors, magazines and billboards.

photo: @takashipom

The designer’s Superflat art style became a big hit with streetwear fashion lovers. Featuring floral patterns, cartoon images and multicolour palettes, the Murakami look fits perfectly in the street world. His art is not only used in clothing, it is also applied on items like skateboards, murals, watches and more.

The Takashi Murakami signature Superflat look is such a seamless streetwear look that it’s not hard to pull off and pair with other streetwear clothing. Think of it as wearable art that can be the statement piece of your whole look. You can never go wrong with a lively graphic art piece that represents the spirit of streetwear style.