Emi Funayama's label, Fetico, has unveiled its Fall 2026 collection, titled 'Contours of Grace,' marking a significant stride in its brand development. The collection reflects Funayama's exploration of mature femininity, drawing inspiration from influential 20th-century women such as artist Vanessa Bell, journalist Lee Miller, and fashion icon Gabrielle Chanel. This season’s presentation, held outside the official Tokyo Fashion Week schedule, highlights a growing trend among leading designers to prioritize logistical efficiency while maintaining a continuous presence in the fashion discourse.
The creative force behind Fetico, Emi Funayama, is celebrating five years since establishing her brand and approaches a personal milestone, turning 40 this year. This reflection on personal growth has deeply influenced her latest designs, as she sought to craft attire that resonates with a more mature audience. Her vision was to create garments that embody elegance and sophistication, catering to women who appreciate refined style without compromising a distinct sense of self. This thoughtful approach has positioned Fetico as a prominent name among Japanese womenswear designers to watch.
The collection draws heavily from the legacies of three remarkable women: Vanessa Bell, Lee Miller, and Gabrielle Chanel. These figures, celebrated for their independent spirit and their contributions to shaping perceptions of femininity, informed the collection's aesthetic direction. Military-inspired outerwear and structured suiting nod to their strength and influence. Tweed ensembles evoke classic sophistication, while delicate ruched blouses, reminiscent of negligees, add a touch of subtle allure. The casting of models of diverse ages further underscored Funayama's commitment to presenting an authentic and relatable portrayal of women.
Funayama deliberately chose to feature models across different age groups to reinforce her commitment to portraying an authentic and relatable image of women wearing Fetico. This decision brought a fresh perspective to the runway, ensuring that the collection resonated with a broad demographic. The clothing itself balanced modesty with distinctive elements of Fetico's signature allure. Sailor pants with corset-like lacing at the back, rose-print velvet pieces cinched at the waist, and form-fitting pencil skirts with front ruching all contributed to a sophisticated yet captivating aesthetic. A particular highlight was the presence of intricately pleated trousers, which flowed gracefully as models walked across the concrete floor of Tokyo’s Museum of Contemporary Art, adding a dynamic visual element to the presentation.
Accessories played a crucial role in enhancing the collection's overall charm. The integration of pillbox hats and Mary Jane pumps imbued the designs with a classic, old-world glamour. However, Funayama skillfully integrated modern textures like denim and leather to infuse a contemporary edge, preventing the collection from appearing overly retro. A standout piece, a leather jacket featuring sensually sculpted princess seams, perfectly encapsulated the collection's ethos: effortlessly chic and appropriate for women of all ages, while also feeling relevant to current fashion trends. This thoughtful juxtaposition of vintage charm and modern sensibility defines Fetico’s latest offering.
Fetico's Fall 2026 collection represents a harmonious fusion of maturity and timeless allure, offering a sophisticated wardrobe for the contemporary woman. By honoring iconic women and embracing a realistic portrayal of femininity, Emi Funayama continues to solidify Fetico's position as a forward-thinking and influential force in Japanese fashion.