Rin, A Fashion Legends Best Friend
They say that behind every great man is an even greater woman. Although often very true, in this case behind a great fashion legend is a great fashion dog. Rin, Yohji Yamamoto’s beloved Akita is probably, if not undeniably, the most famous 4-legged fashion dog in the world.
“I've loved dogs since I was a child.” States the avant-garde fashion icon. Yohji’s love for his best friend is heart-warming to animals and fashion lovers alike. The Akita has been seen pictured with multiple other fashion designers, and Yohji once mentioned “During company meetings, as long as she is there, the atmosphere at the scene will be much more relaxed, and because of her presence, the whole studio is full of laughter”. It’s clear that Rin is a pivotal part of Yohji’s life, both personally and creatively.
Yohji’s love for his dog also brought him to immortalize her through his work. Various pieces throughout many different seasons we see Rin intertwined into the clothing. Known to put his own self into his clothing, both Rin and Yohji can be seen throughout a plethora of pieces, with one most notable mention being the 2016 release of a sweater which uses the quote “Tell them my happiness". The quote is seen next to a visual of Yohji holding Rin in his arms.
Yohji also collaborated with READYMADE and his more accessory-focused line, Discord, for a custom plush doll of Rin. With only 5 being available worldwide, the hand stitched plush consists of different pieces of tweed wools and sits 5 inches tall. The sweet and sentimental piece was sold on a price available upon request basis, and acts as a real collector’s item.
It seems as if it was fate that the fashion designer and Akita would cross paths. Yohji mentions “The white hair on Rin's neck has the word "Y" on it. I think she was born for me”. Like a match made in heaven, the two are inseparable, and even still today Yohji’s walks her every day as long as time permits.
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