Japanese Fashion: Uniqlo, Tokyo Street Style, Denim — 2026-10-24
Fast Retailing’s record-breaking fiscal year results have solidified Uniqlo’s position as the world’s second-largest apparel retailer, surpassing H&M. Amid this financial milestone, the brand announced a 4% price increase in Japan and unveiled a new knitwear collaboration with Marni’s creative director, while Harajuku hosts Ralph Lauren’s first vintage market and Okayama denim makers launch new autumn collections.
Japanese Fashion: Uniqlo, Tokyo Street Style, Denim — 2026-10-24
Top developments
Fast Retailing Surpasses H&M as Global Apparel No. 2
Fast Retailing reported its fifth consecutive year of record annual profit, with FY2026 revenue reaching ¥3.96 trillion, up 16.6% year-on-year. This growth allowed the Uniqlo operator to overtake Sweden’s H&M to become the world’s second-largest apparel retailer, with business outside Japan driving significant gains in North America and Europe. The company’s net profit exceeded ¥500 billion for the first time for a domestic retailer, bolstered by data-driven reductions in production and logistics waste.
Uniqlo Raises Japan Prices by 4%; Launches F.RISSO Knitwear
Despite the record profits, Uniqlo announced it will raise the average selling price of its products in Japan by approximately 4% for the autumn/winter season. Simultaneously, the brand revealed a new capsule collection with Francesco Risso, creative director of Marni, titled "UNIQLO F.RISSO." The knitwear collection is scheduled for release on October 30, marking another high-profile designer collaboration for the fast-fashion giant.
Ralph Lauren’s "PoloFest" Brings Vintage Market to Harajuku
In a move emphasizing heritage and sustainability, Ralph Lauren is hosting "PoloFest" in Tokyo’s Harajuku district from October 23–25. The event features an exhibition and vintage market at the Yodobashi J6 Building, showcasing collector-selected archives and offering a rare opportunity to purchase authenticated vintage pieces. This event highlights the growing interest in resale and archival fashion within Tokyo’s street style ecosystem.
Okayama Denim Makers Release New Autumn/Winter Lines
Japan’s denim industry continues to innovate with new releases from Okayama-based manufacturers. Accese, a prominent Japanese denim brand, launched its "JAPAN DENIM 2026 AUTUMN WINTER" women’s collection on October 17, highlighting the advanced weaving techniques of the Bitchu and Bingo regions. These high-quality selvedge denim offerings reinforce Okayama’s status as the global capital of premium denim production.
Local view
Japanese business media, including Nikkei and FashionSNAP, are focusing heavily on Fast Retailing’s dominance, noting that its net profit of ¥542.5 billion is unprecedented for a domestic retail company. Local analysts point to the company’s "three wastes" reduction strategy—minimizing excess in production, transportation, and sales—as the key driver behind its high profitability. Meanwhile, fashion outlets like Fashion Press are highlighting the cultural significance of Ralph Lauren’s Harajuku event, viewing it as a bridge between global luxury brands and Tokyo’s vibrant vintage culture.
Context & numbers
- FY2026 Revenue: ¥3,963.3 billion (+16.6% YoY)
- FY2026 Net Profit: ¥542.5 billion (+25.3% YoY)
- Price Increase: ~4% average increase in Japan for autumn/winter goods
- Store Count Forecast: 3,545 stores globally by August 2027 (1,752 UNIQLO International, 782 UNIQLO Japan, 490 GU, 521 Global Brands)
On the radar
- October 30, 2026: Release of the "UNIQLO F.RISSO" knitwear capsule collection.
- October 23–25, 2026: Ralph Lauren "PoloFest" vintage market in Harajuku.
- Upcoming: Fast Retailing is expected to continue its expansion in North America and Europe, where revenue recently surpassed Greater China for the first time.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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