Hikari no Yami Debuts SS27 "Parasite" Collection at NYFW

Hikari no Yami, the fashion label founded by Jakarie Whitaker, has officially presented its Spring/Summer 2027 collection, titled “Chapter 11: Parasite,” during New York Fashion Week. This debut marks a significant milestone for the brand, bringing Whitaker’s philosophical design concepts into a tangible, physical presentation. The collection showcases a range of multi-disciplinary design partnerships, underscoring Hikari no Yami's approach to integrating various artistic and manufacturing disciplines. A prominent collaboration features Alpha Industries, a well-established name in military apparel. This partnership involved re-engineering classic military outerwear silhouettes, such as the MA-1 flight jacket and field parkas, by applying Whitaker’s zero-waste upcycling techniques. This initiative highlights a commitment to sustainable fashion practices by repurposing existing materials. The presentation also unveiled unique, one-off pieces developed in collaboration with Art Director Alex Yarally. These items were crafted from deadstock Japanese nylon mesh and silk chiffon, further emphasizing the use of limited and repurposed materials. Additionally, the collection includes hand-painted shirting created in partnership with artist Vanessa Vun, utilizing Sumi ink. The designs were further enhanced by anatomical elements contributed by designer Cierra Calmeise, who developed molded resin spines and encapsulated tops. Providing a foundation for the collection’s aesthetic and movement, the footwear was digitally manufactured and 3D-printed by ALTER LAB. Following its New York Fashion Week debut, the SS27 "Chapter 11: Parasite" collection is slated for a limited release. These pieces will be available in made-to-order quantities through Dover Street Market Ginza and directly via the brand's official website, hikarinoyami.com. This strategic rollout aims to maintain exclusivity and cater to a discerning clientele interested in unique, artistically driven fashion. The collection's name, "Chapter 11: Parasite," suggests a thematic exploration of interconnectedness, dependence, or perhaps the symbiotic relationships within ecosystems, translated through avant-garde design and material innovation. The brand's commitment to zero-waste upcycling and collaborations with artists and digital manufacturers positions Hikari no Yami as a forward-thinking entity in the contemporary fashion landscape, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and a strong ethical stance on material usage.