UNIQLO has had a design collaboration with Jil Sander since 2009 under the name of their +J range of clothing, but it’s been a while since we’ve seen a new collection in the London-based stores, despite its popularity. However, 2014 will see the a return for some of the most loved designs to have been created as a part of the collaboration with the launch of the Best Of +J collection, which will be available throughout autumn and winter this year.
The collection will be launching this week on the 23rd September 2014 alongside Vogue’s Fashion Night Out in the UNIQLO flagship store on Oxford Street at 6pm. It will then also be going on sale online, probably from midnight on the same day, but it could well be at the same time as the event, so we’ll keep you updated here if any more details are released by the high street fashion retailers.
The Best Of +J has been put together due to popular demand from fans of the design collaboration and it will include some of the great designs from more than five seasons of the collection, which ran concurrently since the initial launch of +J Autumn/ Winter 2009. The clothing range became know for its classic lines, minimalist style, timeless features and forward-looking philosophy, alongside the relative affordability of high quality garments, the Best Of collection is bound to be a big success in the fashion world throughout AW14.
The +J design collaboration is described by UNIQLO as one of the most successful in their history and it was typified by its unruffled precision tailoring, avant-garde materials and finishes and modernistic, sometimes even futuristic, silhouettes. As a result it cut a significant path into the concept of high street fashion, bringing it ever closer to the standards of designer fashion for everyday clothing.
Whether you’re new to the range or you’ve been a fan for years, the announcement comes as a great opportunity to get your hands on some of the great designs that have been included in the collection over the years. To give you a heads up, we’ve put together a short preview for some of the best picks from the women’s and men’s items, including some of the simple staples, as well as the more eye catching designs that have been included in the Best Of +J.
UNIQLO Best Of +J AW14 women’s collection preview:
For women, the down shaped line jacked with oversized pockets is pretty stylish while also being incredibly warm for the long winter ahead, while the wool wrap coat makes for a smarter alternative. We’re big fans of the pocket detail on the cashmere v-neck cardigan, along with the merino sleeveless turtle neck sweater and the slim fit long sleeve shirt.
The bell shaped pencil skirt is super stylish and while the cropped wool blend trousers probably won’t do much to keep your ankles warm, they’ll compensate with their cute lines.
UNIQLO Best Of +J AW14 men’s collection preview:
Men should look at the launch of the collection as an opportunity to get some of the best basics available on the market this autumn and winter, including the classic man’s button-down shirt. It makes a great staple wardrobe item and can be added to by the +J wool trousers and blazers to create some functional, warm and stylish work wear looks.
Added to this is Jil Sander’s strength for crafting great outerwear, including the stylish down padded parka, the classic flannel chester coat and a very cool duffel coat.
