During Berlin Fashion Week, JOHN LAWRENCE SULLIVAN showcased an evocative Fall/Winter 2026 collection that resonates with the designer Arashi Yanagawa’s unique perspective, shaped by his history as a professional boxer. The collection exudes a sense of intensity and rigour, capturing a spirit both defiant and introspective.
Presented at Intervention, the collection distinguishes itself through a minimalist aesthetic that stands apart from prevailing fashion norms. The garments delve into themes of self-defence and internal struggle, drawing inspiration from the ascetic elements of Scandinavian black metal and dark subcultures, which emphasise the dichotomy between restraint and confrontation.
Shin Jeong Hoon captured the behind-the-scenes moments, offering a raw glimpse into the energy and artistry that punctuate this dynamic collection. As JOHN LAWRENCE SULLIVAN continues to redefine boundaries within the fashion realm, this season’s presentation at Berlin promises to leave an indelible mark on contemporary menswear and womenswear alike.
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All photos by Shin Jeong Hoon
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Hero pieces such as elongated coats, tailored jackets, bomber and biker jackets illustrate a silhouette that draws parallels to a boxer’s stance, forward-leaning and defensive. The innovative design features forward-set sleeves and exaggerated proportions, effectively shifting the wearer’s posture into a guarded, inward-facing position. This architectural approach serves to evoke an immediacy and tension that echoes the essence of combat.
The collection’s textile choices, including second-skin leather, resilient melton wool, and a rich variety of materials like silk-nep flannel and icy silver lamé, function as protective membranes, amplifying bodily awareness while shielding against the outside world. An inspired colour palette dominated by deep blacks, crisp whites, and chill-inducing ice silvers creates a striking visual narrative, complemented by camouflage and dot prints that evoke the Nordic landscape.
Accessories play a crucial role in this collection; their studded designs are not merely decorative but strategic in generating tension and asserting independence. Collaborations with YOSHiKO CREATiON and combat boots designed alongside KIDS LOVE GAITE further illustrate a commitment to both durability and style, utilising TEMPESTI’s Elbamatt Liscio leather and Vibram rubber soles.
In women’s wear, the same thematic elements are echoed, with a focus on exaggerated shoulder silhouettes and the reinterpretation of masculine designs for the female form. This includes long denim skirts with tucks inspired by traditional Japanese biker uniforms, alongside coats that infuse lingerie elements into their construction.
Accompanying the collection was a musical composition by Jonas Karsten, composed to envelop the audience in a spatial soundscape. This immersive auditory experience, reflective of the collection’s overarching themes, further enhanced the encounter at the Berlin Fashion Week.
