The Designer Is Also Serving as a Judge for One of Bunka Fashion College’s Student Competitions
Stella McCartney is currently spotlighting her brand in Japan, marked by several major initiatives, including the exclusive launch of the black version of her Rasant sneaker in collaboration with Adidas at the Isetan department store in Tokyo. At this location, McCartney will personally sign sneakers for customers.
Additionally, McCartney’s spring 2025 collection is being featured prominently in the Isetan windows under the campaign slogan “Save What You Love,” alongside a dedicated pop-up shop that showcases her designs.
During her visit to Japan, McCartney also engaged with the local fashion education community by visiting Bunka Fashion College. Here, she served as one of the judges for the “Mitsukoshi Isetan Mirai Award — Colour of the Future,” a competition open to students from Bunka Fashion College, Tokyo Mode Gakuen, and ESMOD Tokyo. The contest provided students with deadstock fabrics supplied by Yamazawa Press to create their entries.
The winner of this competition will have the choice between a $20,000 cash prize or a commercial partnership with either Levi’s Japan or Isetan. Additionally, the winning student’s work will be displayed in the window of Isetan’s Shinjuku store in April, and they will be flown to Paris Fashion Week in October to attend McCartney’s fashion show.
This award aligns closely with McCartney’s commitment to sustainability in fashion, a theme that is central to her brand’s ethos. Bunka Fashion College, where the competition took place, is renowned for its influential alumni, including Rei Kawakubo, Yohji Yamamoto, and Nigo, adding prestige to the event.
Looking ahead, McCartney has further plans for expansion in Japan, including the opening of a concept store in Shibuya Parco and another at Umeda Hankyu.
