Nicola Formichetti | Launches Character Label 'NICOPANDA'

Nicola Formichetti

Launched in Asia in May 2012, with Japan following at the end of the month!

Character Label "NICOPANDA" Launches

Nicola Formichetti, the internationally acclaimed fashion designer and director, born to an Italian father and Japanese mother, is launching his character label "NICOPANDA" in Japan. Sales will commence on Wednesday, May 23rd, at four select stores in Tokyo: Beauty & Youth Shibuya Cat Street Women's Store, LHP Harajuku, Opening Ceremony Seibu Shibuya Movida Building, and Opening Ceremony Lumine Shinjuku 2.

Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)

A Strong Desire to Introduce NICOPANDA to Japan Becomes Reality

Nicola Formichetti currently serves as Creative Director for MUGLER, Creative Director for LADY GAGA, Fashion Director for "VOGUE HOMME JAPAN" and "V MAGAZINE," and Fashion Director for UNIQLO.

NICOPANDA, the character that debuted at the highly talked-about limited-time pop-up store "Nicola's" during New York Collections last September, is finally launching in Asia and Japan. In Asia, the "Nicola's" pop-up store has been running for a month since May 1st at Lane Crawford, across four locations in China (three in Hong Kong, one in Beijing). In Japan, select T-shirts and fashion accessories will be available first at the aforementioned four stores.

The NICOPANDA character originates from the nickname "Bear," inspired by Mr. Formichetti's appearance, as he is known to be a great fan of pandas and anime. Due to his being of half-Italian and half-Asian (Japanese) heritage, the nickname evolved into "Panda," which was then combined with "Nicola" to become "NICOPANDA."

Furthermore, new companions, inspired by the diverse characters surrounding Mr. Formichetti, are expected to appear soon. This project, with designs by Mr. Formichetti, is being handled by a Japanese team led by his younger brother, Andrea. The designs originate from New York, with production coordinated in Japan. Full-scale rollout is scheduled to begin this July. Keep an eye on future developments.