One of Japan's coolest retailers just turned classic Disney cartoons into stylish everyday essentials
Seven Urban Research labels reinterpret classic Disney animated shorts with understated clothing, bags and accessories
Disney collaborations are nothing new (see also Columbia's latest collab with the entertainment giant), but every now and then one comes along that feels designed for people who would never normally buy Disney clothing.
Japanese retailer Urban Research has partnered with Disney on a capsule spanning seven of its fashion labels, with each label drawing inspiration from a different classic animated short.
The collection takes a more restrained approach, mixing vintage artwork with clean silhouettes, embroidered details and functional accessories.
One of the capsules, Hawaiian Holiday, celebrates Disney's colourful 1937 short starring Mickey Mouse and friends.
The range includes heavyweight graphic T-shirts, pocket tees with subtle embroidery, towel accessories and a selection of lightweight bags finished in soft pastel shades.
Looking at the collection, it's easy to imagine these pieces sitting alongside Snow Peak, BEAMS or Gramicci rather than inside a Disney store.
Vintage animation, Japanese design
The wider collaboration pairs seven Urban Research Group labels with seven different Disney animated shorts.
Other capsules include designs inspired by Fantasia, Steamboat Willie and Mickey's Birthday Party, giving each label its own distinct aesthetic while staying true to its identity.
The collection will first appear at a pop-up inside Urban Famima!! Toranomon Hills from 25 July until 12 August, before rolling out to additional Urban Research pop-up locations in Tokyo Skytree Solamachi, LaLaport TOKYO-BAY and LUCUA Osaka from 31 July.
Whether or not it ever makes its way outside Japan remains to be seen, but if you're planning a trip to Tokyo this summer, this is exactly the sort of limited-edition Japanese collaboration worth hunting down.
Unlike most Disney merchandise, these are pieces that wouldn't look out of place in your everyday wardrobe.
Prices range from ¥4,180 to ¥14,300 (roughly £21 to £73), covering everything from T-shirts to canvas bags and shirts.
You can find the collection at Urban Research.
[via FashionSnap]
