Collection: #4

Y-3 collections from 2004 are arguably the most iconic.
While the brand has consistently released innovative and captivating collections throughout its 20+ year history, the Spring/Summer 2004 collection stands out as the most memorable. One reason for this is the collaboration with Japanese artist Saeko Tsuemura and denim manufacturer Spotted Horse, known to Yohji Yamamoto fans through their collaborations on his mainline collections.

Tsuemura’s technique involved airbrushing over photographic portraits, creating a unique effect that resembled hyper-realistic drawings. For this collection, her artworks depicted athletes—dubbed the “Y-3 Heroes”—wearing vintage Adidas sportswear and gold Y-3 medals.

The Autumn/Winter 2004 “Rebel” collection also featured Tsuemura’s work, including illustrations of a blonde girl inspired by the 1968 film The Girl on a Motorcycle.

Spotted Horse denims appeared in the A/W 2004 collection as well. These limited-edition pieces employed a distinctive “missing thread” technique and have since become grail items for both Adidas and Yohji Yamamoto enthusiasts.