HYKE Unveils Their Spring-Summer 2024 Fashion Show: A Harmony of Graceful Gorpcore

Yukiko Ode and Hideaki Yoshihara, the dynamic duo behind HYKE, have masterfully crafted a fusion they aptly term "graceful gorpco...

Yukiko Ode and Hideaki Yoshihara, the dynamic duo behind HYKE, have masterfully crafted a fusion they aptly term "graceful gorpcore." Their expertise lies in seamlessly blending practicality with a touch of ethereal femininity, and this season, they remained true to their distinctive approach, drawing inspiration from their deep connection with the natural world.

Their latest collection prominently featured elements inspired by their newfound passion for trail running, a recent pursuit of Ode and Yoshihara, who have also embraced paddle-boarding and canoeing. This influence manifested in both functional aspects, employing lightweight, water-resistant materials like PERTEX and high-tech Taslan twill, and in artistic nuances. Notably, the collection showcased topographical map prints adorning billowy trench coats and sheer jumpsuits. These contour lines, mirroring the geography of Kiryu—Ode's hometown—infused the collection with a profound and meaningful connection to the land.

A noteworthy collaboration with The North Face, a long-standing partner of Hyke, introduced a line of trail running essentials. Among them, a standout was the chic sack vest designed to be versatile for mountain treks or everyday commutes. Ode explained that the vest's thoughtful design, featuring a vented back for comfort and ample pocket space for two water bottles, was born out of their desire to break away from the typical cluttered aesthetics of trail running gear.

The garments showcased a remarkable fluidity in movement. Swirling mesh dresses and billowing pants gracefully moved with each stride, while puff-sleeved denim jackets and form-fitting, strapless jumpsuits in double-faced polyester wool added a dimension that exuded both strength and sophistication. The collection was meticulously crafted to provide comfort during walks while emanating an elegant aesthetic.

Despite maintaining a consistent style that hovers on the edge of predictability, the designers continually conjure fresh ideas to infuse technical fabrics with elegance and discover innovative ways to incorporate functional elements, such as concealed water bottle pockets. Ode attributed this wellspring of creativity to the Japanese countryside, a realm she eagerly anticipates revisiting. As she shared, "Once this season concludes and the market rush subsides, our hearts are set on returning to nature. Perhaps I'll stumble upon undiscovered mountains to conquer." HYKE's Spring-Summer 2024 collection beautifully encapsulates their vision of graceful gorpcore, seamlessly blending the practical and the ethereal.