In a remarkable union of craftsmanship and artistry, two cultural icons, Levi’s® and Studio Ghibli, have come together to present a collection that pays tribute to the timeless masterpiece, “Princess Mononoke.” Released in 1997, this Japanese historical fantasy epic captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its stunning animation and profound environmental themes.
Hayao Miyazaki’s cinematic genius shone through every frame of “Princess Mononoke,” as the film delved into the intricate relationship between humanity and nature. Unlike traditional fairy tales, this epic portrayed nature itself as a central character, living and breathing, with characters embodying the spirits of the natural world.
Inspired by the film’s captivating landscapes and enchanting characters, the Levi’s® x Princess Mononoke collection is a testament to the dedication and meticulousness that both Levi’s® and Studio Ghibli exemplify. This unique collaboration blends Levi’s® iconic style with the poetic aesthetic of the film, resulting in an artistic collection that captures the essence of the forest and celebrates the beauty of a deeply interconnected ecosystem.
Karyn Hillman, Levi Strauss & Co.’s Product Director, expressed her pleasure in collaborating with Studio Ghibli to create this extraordinary collection. She acknowledged the enduring influence of “Princess Mononoke,” which continues to resonate with audiences worldwide even after 25 years of its release.
Each piece in the Levi’s® x Princess Mononoke collection is an embodiment of the film’s environmental storytelling and transformative charm. The San & Wolf Trucker Jacket, the Ashitaka 501 ‘93 Jeans, and the San & Moro 501 Shorts all draw inspiration from the film’s hand-painted backgrounds, which artfully depict majestic forests, golden rays of sunlight, and a magical atmosphere.
The Levi’s x Studio Ghibli design team meticulously captured the characters’ emotions and moods, with the Nightwalker Denim Kimono Jacket and the Kodama Denim Overall reflecting a darker indigo hue, adding depth and dimension to the collection.
One of the collection’s most enchanting features is the incorporation of iconic quotes from the movie on graphic tees and hoodies. These artful juxtapositions portray serene moments against exhilarating action sequences, encapsulating the film’s emotional range and capturing the essence of “Princess Mononoke.”
The Levi’s® x Princess Mononoke collection extends beyond apparel, with an array of inspired accessories that further immerse fans in the magical world of the film. From the classic Western-American Levi’s bandana adorned with San’s mystical red battle mask to the Ancient Forest Bucket Hat and the San & Ashitaka Tote showcasing both characters, each accessory adds a touch of magic to the collection.
Adding a whimsical touch, two coin bags feature San’s mask and Kodama’s face, completing the lineup of accessories that are sure to delight fans and collectors alike.
For Levi’s Red Tab Members, the magic begins early, with exclusive access to shop the Levi’s x Princess Mononoke collection on the Levi’s website starting August 8. For everyone else, the global online launch and availability in select Levi’s stores will follow on August 10, ensuring that fans worldwide can embrace the artful fusion of Levi’s® timeless style and the enchanting storytelling of “Princess Mononoke.”
In this extraordinary collaboration, Levi’s® and Studio Ghibli have brought together their passion for detail, craftsmanship, and culture. The Levi’s® x Princess Mononoke collection not only celebrates the legacy of this animation icon but also showcases the power of art to transcend boundaries and create a unique and magical experience for all who immerse themselves in it.
As fans and fashion enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the collection’s release, it stands as a testament to the enduring impact of “Princess Mononoke” and a celebration of the transformative power of storytelling through the medium of animation. The timeless themes of nature, humanity, and interconnectedness resonate as strongly today as they did over two decades ago when the film first graced the silver screen. Through this artistic collaboration, Levi’s x Studio Ghibli invite us all to embrace the beauty of the forest and the enchantment of a world where nature itself holds a mesmerizing and vital role.
