Nepenthes Expands Its Global Footprint with DTLA Store
Photo Credit: NEPENTHES LA (@nepenthes_losangeles)
Los Angeles is about to get a major style upgrade. The Tokyo-based fashion collective Nepenthes, known for its eclectic fusion of classic American menswear with avant-garde Japanese design, has officially opened the doors to its latest retail outpost in downtown LA. This marks Nepenthes' third store outside Japan, following successful ventures in New York and London. Fashion enthusiasts across the city now have direct access to one of the most innovative labels redefining what modern menswear can be.
Founded in 1988 by Keizo Shimizu, Nepenthes is best known for their in-house labels like Needles and Engineered Garments, Nepenthes has built its reputation on a singular aesthetic that blends American heritage with Japanese craftsmanship.
Shimizu, who also helms the cult-favorite brand Needles, is celebrated for taking classic American garments like track suits, military wear, and varsity jackets, and giving them a subversive twist. Whether it’s the bold patterns, unexpected fabric choices, or deconstructed silhouettes, his designs are an instant standout in the crowded world of menswear.
On the other hand, Daiki Suzuki, the creative mind behind Engineered Garments, offers a more subtle yet equally impactful take on American fashion. Drawing inspiration from vintage workwear, Suzuki meticulously reimagines the staples of the American wardrobe — think fatigue pants, chore jackets, and utility vests — through a lens of understated luxury. His focus on functionality, combined with a keen attention to detail, has made Engineered Garments a go-to brand for those seeking timeless style with a modern edge.
Photo Credit: Christian Werner / SSENSE
Together, Shimizu and Suzuki have played pivotal roles in shaping the Nepenthes universe. Their shared dedication to craftsmanship and innovative design has helped Nepenthes build a global cult following, drawing in everyone from streetwear aficionados to high-fashion purists.
Now, with the opening of their Los Angeles store, Nepenthes is bringing its unique aesthetic to the West Coast. Located in the heart of downtown LA, the store is a reflection of the brand’s commitment to finding unconventional, off-the-beaten-path locations. The space will feature collections from their in-house brands — such as South2 West8, AiE, Rhodolirion, and the recently launched Shiden. This blending of fashion and culture is quintessential Nepenthes, where retail becomes an immersive experience rather than just a transactional one.
The new LA location is expected to attract a diverse clientele, from fashion insiders to casual shoppers intrigued by Nepenthes’ distinctive mix of high-end and utilitarian design. In a city known for its love of laid-back, casual fashion, Nepenthes' eclectic, experimental take on American classics is sure to resonate.
For those familiar with Nepenthes' existing stores in New York and London, the downtown LA space promises a familiar sense of curated chaos. Expect racks filled with everything from patchwork Needles track pants to Engineered Garments’ meticulously constructed outerwear, all presented in an environment that feels more like a gallery than a traditional retail store.
With Tokuro Aoyagi at the helm as President and COO, Nepenthes continues to push the envelope in terms of both design and retail experience. The downtown LA store is the latest example of the brand’s unwavering commitment to innovation, and it’s clear that this is just the beginning of what’s to come for Nepenthes in the global fashion landscape.
As the fashion world continues to evolve, Nepenthes stands out as a brand that honors the past while looking boldly toward the future. And with this new store, Los Angeles is about to become a lot more stylish.
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