A Beginner’s Guide to Buying Comme des Garçons

If you’re new to the world of high fashion, Comme des Garçons might seem like a daunting brand to approach. Known for its avant-garde designs, deconstructed aesthetics, and boundary-pushing concepts, it can be hard to know where to start. However, once you understand the brand’s ethos and offerings, you’ll realize that Comme des Garçons is an accessible and incredibly exciting brand to explore. Whether you’re interested in adding a statement piece to your wardrobe or diving deep into the brand’s unique collections, this guide will help you navigate the world of Comme des Garçons with ease.

Understanding Comme des Garçons

Comme des Garçons was founded in 1969 by Rei commedesgarcon-us.com in Tokyo, Japan. The name, which translates to “like boys,” was a nod to the designer’s desire to break traditional gender norms and create clothing that transcended conventional boundaries. Since its inception, the brand has become one of the most influential in the fashion world, known for its innovative designs that challenge conventional beauty and fashion standards. What sets Comme des Garçons apart is its ability to mix the art of fashion with conceptual thinking. Rei Kawakubo often draws inspiration from various art movements, philosophy, and cultural references, making each collection a conversation starter. From distressed, deconstructed looks to bold color palettes and abstract shapes, Comme des Garçons is not just about clothes—it’s about self-expression and challenging the status quo.

Types of Comme des Garçons Collections

Before you make a purchase, it’s essential to understand the different lines under the Comme des Garçons umbrella. The brand has expanded over the years, offering various collections, each with its own distinct aesthetic. Here are the key collections you’ll encounter:

Comme des Garçons Homme Plus

This is the mainline men’s collection, known for its sophisticated tailoring and experimental approach to traditional menswear. Expect oversized silhouettes, unexpected fabric combinations, and avant-garde designs that blend structure with fluidity. Homme Plus is perfect for those who want to make a statement while maintaining a sense of elegance.

Comme des Garçons Homme

Slightly more casual than Homme Plus, this line focuses on wearable, everyday pieces that still carry the signature Comme des Garçons flair. It’s ideal for someone who wants to introduce the brand into their wardrobe without committing to the boldness of Homme Plus.

Comme des Garçons Comme des Garçons

This collection represents the brand’s core philosophy—conceptual, experimental, and often deconstructed. The pieces are often more avant-garde, with unique cuts, shapes, and patterns. If you’re looking for something truly distinct and one-of-a-kind, this is the collection to explore.

Comme des Garçons Play

One of the most accessible and popular lines, Comme des Garçons Play offers a more casual and playful take on the brand’s signature style. It’s known for its logo-centric designs, often featuring the heart-and-eyes motif. Play is perfect for those looking to incorporate Comme des Garçons into their wardrobe with more everyday pieces, such as t-shirts, hoodies, and sneakers.

Comme des Garçons Homme de Marque

This line focuses on high-end, luxury fashion with an emphasis on craftsmanship and attention to detail. It combines traditional tailoring with avant-garde elements, making it a perfect choice for those looking to make a bold statement in formal settings.

Comme des Garçons Black

This collection features minimalist designs with a focus on black as the primary color. It’s known for its clean lines, subtle yet impactful designs, and is often considered one of the more wearable collections for newcomers to the brand.

How to Choose the Right Comme des Garçons Piece for You

When purchasing Comme des Garçons, it’s important to keep in mind your personal style, your budget, and the type of clothing you typically wear. Since Comme des Garçons pieces are often unconventional and experimental, you may want to start with something that aligns with your current wardrobe.

Start Small with Comme des Garçons Play

If you’re new to Comme des Garçons and want to dip your toes into the brand without going all in, Comme des Garçons Play is an excellent starting point. The pieces are more affordable and casual, making it easy to integrate them into your existing wardrobe. A Comme des Garçons Play t-shirt or hoodie featuring the iconic heart-and-eyes logo can serve as a great entry point.

Invest in Statement Pieces from Homme Plus or Comme des Garçons Comme des Garçons

If you’re ready to invest in a statement piece, consider looking at the more avant-garde collections, such as Comme des Garçons Homme Plus or Comme des Garçons Comme des Garçons. These lines feature unique, one-of-a-kind designs that can elevate your wardrobe and make a bold statement. Look for items like oversized blazers, deconstructed shirts, or asymmetrical dresses that embody the brand’s conceptual style.

Look for Classic Pieces that Transcend Trends

While Comme des Garçons is known for pushing boundaries, the brand also offers timeless pieces that can last for years. Tailored trousers, structured blazers, and classic outerwear from Comme des Garçons Homme are wardrobe staples that remain stylish season after season. If you want to build a long-lasting collection, consider investing in high-quality, classic items that offer versatility and longevity.

Consider Accessories and Footwear

Don’t overlook the accessories and footwear options from Comme des Garçons. The brand is known for its innovative takes on everyday items, from bags to sneakers. A pair of Comme des Garçons Play Converse sneakers or a minimalist black leather wallet from the Comme des Garçons mainline can add a touch of the brand’s signature style to your outfit without requiring a full wardrobe overhaul.

Where to Buy Comme des Garçons

Once you’ve identified the type of piece you want, the next step is finding the right place to purchase it. Comme des Garçons has both physical stores and online retailers that offer a wide range of pieces.

Official Comme des Garçons Stores

The brand has flagship stores in major cities like Tokyo, Paris, New York, London, and Hong Kong. These locations carry the full range of collections and offer a curated shopping experience. Visiting a physical store allows you to experience the pieces firsthand and receive personalized service.

Dover Street Market

Dover Street Market (DSM) is a concept store founded by Rei Kawakubo herself. The London-based store carries a curated selection of Comme des Garçons pieces, as well as other high-end designer brands. DSM is also home to exclusive collections and limited-edition items, making it a great place to find something unique.

Online Retailers

If visiting a physical store isn’t feasible, you can also find Comme des Garçons online. Websites like SSENSE, Farfetch, and MatchesFashion carry a wide selection of Comme des Garçons items, from the most recent collections to rare pieces from previous seasons. For those looking for rare or discontinued pieces, second-hand and vintage stores can be a treasure trove. Websites like Grailed and TheRealReal offer pre-owned Comme des Garçons items at more affordable prices. Keep in mind that when shopping second-hand, it’s essential to check the authenticity of the items before making a purchase.