Tsumori Chisato marked a defining moment in her illustrious career with the unveiling of her Spring Summer 2026 collection at Rakuten Fashion Week Tokyo, a joyful celebration of the brand’s 35th anniversary. The runway, titled “35th Anniversary TSUMORI CHISATO Gratitude”, was her first in more than seven years, following her last Paris presentation in 2018, and proved to be both nostalgic and forward-looking.

Hosted at TC HOUSE in Shibuya, home to both the atelier and flagship store, the setting reflected the designer’s whimsical spirit. White walls and natural wood flooring were enlivened with splashes of vibrant blues, pinks, and yellows, alongside oversized marguerite flowers, creating a dreamlike environment infused with warmth and optimism.

The collection unveiled 37 looks infused with Chisato’s iconic language of playfulness and color. Beloved motifs – flowers, fish, the earth, and rainbows – were brought to life through embroidery, intricate knits, and hand-drawn illustration prints, each garment a heartfelt gesture of gratitude and joy. It was a kaleidoscopic diary of her inspirations, reimagined into clothing that felt intimate yet exuberant.

The emotional resonance of the show extended beyond the garments. Speaking afterwards, Chisato, at times teary-eyed, shared her intent with childlike sincerity: “For this show, I wanted to express myself like a child, gathering all the things I love to convey my gratitude through clothing. I packed in so many feelings, and I’d be truly happy if everyone finds it fun to look at.”

She also reflected on the words of her late mentor, Issey Miyake, who once encouraged her to draw a simple directive that became the foundation of her career. “By continuing to draw, I’ve been able to keep going all these years. I love making clothes and fabrics, and I want to keep creating, playing, and enjoying the process in a relaxed way. Thanks to everyone’s support, I’ve been able to make clothes joyfully for 35 years, and I’m deeply grateful.”

With its exuberant palette and sincere artistry, the Spring Summer 2026 collection captured the essence of Tsumori Chisato’s vision: playful yet profound, nostalgic yet brimming with optimism. It was not merely a show but a celebration of resilience, imagination, and the enduring magic of design.