Marimekko, the Finnish design house, has again partnered with Uniqlo, the Japanese global apparel retailer, for a limited-edition collection to be released in early 2024.
The collection combines Marimekko’s art of printmaking with Uniqlo’s LifeWear of simple and high-quality everyday clothing. It will be offered in Uniqlo stores and at uniqlo.com in all markets, starting Jan. 1.
The products are designed at Uniqlo’s international headquarters in Tokyo’s Ariake District. New color combinations for Marimekko prints are created at its headquarters in Helsinki. The collection’s items are manufactured in Vietnam, Indonesia and China. Retail prices range from 7.90 euros to 34.90 euros.
Marimekko and Uniqlo first started collaborating in 2018, and have done six limited-edition collaborations.
“We are excited to reunite with Uniqlo for this new limited-edition collaboration collection that brings together Marimekko’s art of printmaking with Uniqlo’s commitment to create high-quality clothing that is functional and democratic for everyone’s daily lifestyle. Limited-edition brand collaborations with wide global reach increase Marimekko’s international brand awareness and this way support our growth strategy, especially in international markets,” said Sanna-Kaisa Niikko, chief marketing officer of Marimekko. “We believe that this collaboration is a great opportunity to introduce Marimekko to large new audiences around the world — and to offer customers something fun and surprising.”
According to Marimekko, brand collaborations typically generate licensing income to the brand in the Asia-Pacific region in the second and third quarters of 2023.
A look from the Marimekko x Uniqlo collaboration.
Courtesy of Marimekko.
Yukihiro Katsuta, head of research and development for Uniqlo, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with Marimekko once again. The latest line combines Uniqlo’s signature simplicity with Marimekko’s beautiful prints inspired by Nordic nature and wildlife. The collection is designed to be enjoyed with family and friends and is perfect for staying warm. I hope everyone can enjoy this special collection available for a limited time only.”
The collection includes Uniqlo’s soft fleece outfits and functional Heattech, as well as a light shoulder bag for both women and children, and socks. Marimekko’s prints featured are the Kivet, Kissapollo, Seireeni by Maija Isola, and Hattara by Pentti Rinta. Each pattern is inspired by Nordic nature, in colors such as pearl grays, muted gold and black.
Handbags in the Marimekko x Uniqlo collaboration.
Courtesy of Marimekko.