#Japan #Tokyo #FRED PERRY #Streetwear #Kris Van Assche

Fred Perry and Kris Van Assche: A Reinvention of Youth Culture

In an exciting new collaboration, Fred Perry, the iconic British fashion brand rooted in sports and subculture, has teamed up with Kris Van Assche, a renowned Belgian menswear designer known for his sophisticated minimalist style. This partnership marks a significant moment as these two giants come together to create a collection that redefines contemporary men's fashion.

Kris Van Assche, who served as the Artistic Director for Dior Homme for 11 years, has been praised for elevating streetwear into the realm of luxury, crafting a new modern male identity. His innovative approach has been equally evident in his work with Berluti, where he masterfully blends tailoring with cultural elements to deliver unique designs.

Van Assche describes himself as someone who loves breaking existing rules, a rebellious spirit that resonates perfectly with Fred Perry's ethos, leading to this remarkable collaboration.

The Collection

This inaugural collection aims to update and redefine youth culture uniforms, focusing on Fred Perry's classic items, each embodying the essence of sports and street culture. Analyzing these timeless pieces, Van Assche strikes a delicate balance between tradition and innovation, reimagining them with his distinct perspective. Below are some key highlights from the collection:

Fred Perry Shirt

The collection kicks off with the Fred Perry Shirt, featuring a vibrant red body and three badges displaying flower photos selected from Van Assche's personal collection. This botanical motif has been a recurring theme throughout his career and is essential in adding style detail to this piece.

Reinterpreted Fred Perry Shirt

Using the brand's signature white cotton pique fabric, this reinterpretation features a tailored look with black twin-tipped detailing on the collar and sleeves, along with black buttons. It also comes with a pre-tied black tie for adjustable styling, allowing for both formal and casual interpretations.

Elevated Tracksuits

The classic track jacket and pants are transformed into a chic ensemble with a stylish black and white pinstripe design. The pants are equipped with a drawstring waist for a comfortable fit, and a matching track skirt is also included.

Casual, Tailored Blazer and Shorts

Unexpectedly blending elements from both brand legacies, a refined blazer and shorts set features a black body with white tipping, merging casual and tailored styles.

Hybrid Sweatshirt

Reimagined as a “sweat-shirt,” the half-zip sporty sweatshirt combines traditional knit and poplin sleeves, featuring playful dual branding for an intriguing hybrid design.

Trompe-l'œil Knitwear

The short-sleeved V-neck sweater reworks traditional British argyle patterns in black, grey, and red, creating a visual effect that resembles layering over a Fred Perry Shirt. Additionally, a long-sleeved sweater adorned with a black and white floral pattern pays homage to the culture of adorning oneself with flowers in formal settings.

Cap

Completing the look, a black cap features prominently in the collection. This accessory recalls the brand's sporting roots while subtly dressing down formal outfits, making it a key piece.

This collaboration presents a special collection of 12 pieces, designed for wearers to interpret freely, allowing them to style without being constrained by rules.

Launching the Collection

The FRED PERRY x KRIS VAN ASSCHE collection will officially hit stores on February 20, 2026, available at Fred Perry shops in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, as well as on their official online store.

In honor of this collaboration, a launch party will be held at the Fred Perry shop in Tokyo, featuring an engaging talk session with Kris Van Assche himself, stylist and fashion director TEPPEI, and Hiroki Tsuzuki, a member of popular comedy trio Yontende Shinsyu, who also runs his own brand. Guests can look forward to drinks and catered food.

Launch Party Details

• - Date: February 20, 2026 (Friday) 19:00 - 21:00
• - Venue: FRED PERRY SHOP TOKYO
• - Address: 5-9-6 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001
• - Entry: Free (Open to all)
• - Note: ID checks may occur for alcohol service and entry may be limited if capacity is exceeded.

Fred Perry’s Legacy

Founded in 1952 by Frederick John Perry, a Wimbledon triple champion, Fred Perry has intertwined sports, particularly tennis, with British subculture. The original Fred Perry shirt has remained proudly manufactured since its design in the 1950s, embodying subculture uniforms that cross over between sportswear and street fashion. It continues to inspire various communities, from rebellious youths to musicians and filmmakers, serving as a timeless emblem of British subculture.

For a taste of unique sports-inspired designs and the rich heritage of British subculture, visit Fred Perry’s official site and stay connected through their social media channels: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LINE.