Issey Miyake Green Blue Pleated Satin Ribbon Skirt, 1990s

Born in 1938 in Hiroshima, Japan, Issey Miyake throughout his career became a beacon of merging modernist elements of both Eastern and Western culture. Having trained extensively in Parisian couture houses, Miyake came to open his own studio in Japan in 1970. His focus was creating fashions with an experimental approach, most notably with his iconic usage of pleating.

Made in lavish jewel tones of sapphire, emerald, and antiqued copper, this skirt incorporates unconnected rows of satin ribbons pleated in sections to compose this 1996 skirt. The accordion pleated sections fall together like corrugated shingles giving the skirt an added metallic texture. Slightly pegged around the ankles, the skirt offers an aura of childlike sophistication, and wardrobe daring.

Artist, Beatrix Ost has frequently worn this skirt design even on the cover of Grey magazine. This is a rare and highly collectable piece having retailed at a high price point in 1996 due to the intensive production process, signaling that this skirt is truly an investment.

Size estimate: Medium

Waist: 27 inches

Hips: 36-38 inches

Length: 39 inches

Made in a poly-satin, the skirt rests at the waist and is unlined. It fastens at the solid green waistband with a single button closure. In excellent condition, high-quality vintage pieces like this are yours to live in and love while increasing in value every year. It’s never too soon to start collecting them, as an investment in your wardrobe—and in yourself.