{"id":2116707,"date":"2026-08-27T14:26:53","date_gmt":"2026-08-27T11:26:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2116707"},"modified":"2026-08-27T14:26:53","modified_gmt":"2026-08-27T11:26:53","slug":"what-is-uniqlo-u-without-the-lemaire-duo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2116707","title":{"rendered":"What Is Uniqlo U Without the Lemaire Duo?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2Flemaire-tw.jpg?w=1080&amp;cbr=1&amp;q=90&amp;fit=max&#8221;]<\/p>\n<div class=\"col-post-body col\">\n<div class=\"row post-body\">\n<aside class=\"post-body-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-upper\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-category d-none d-lg-block\">\n<p>    Fashion\n                                                                                                    <\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-published d-none d-lg-block\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/div>\n<ul class=\"post-body-sidebar-hype-comments-container list-unstyled d-none d-lg-block\">\n<li><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-sm-inline text\">Comments<\/span><\/span>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-author d-none d-lg-block\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-none d-lg-block\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-share d-none d-lg-block\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-none d-lg-block\">\n<div class=\"brand-sidebar-widget d-none d-lg-block\">\n<h6>In This Article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<article class=\"post-body-article\">\n<div id=\"post-body-top-bar\" class=\"post-body-top-bar d-block d-lg-none\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-share-meta-container\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-meta\"><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-category\"><\/p>\n<p>    Fashion<br \/>\n                                                    <\/span><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-published\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-hype-comments-container \"><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-none text\">Comments<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content\">\n<p>This week\u2019s unveiling of the latest Uniqlo U range not only marks the 10th anniversary of Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran\u2019s line, but also their final release as its head designers. After months of speculation, Uniqlo\u2019s messaging around the FW26 collection has explicitly confirmed the conclusion of their direction over Uniqlo U. However, the brand also stated that \u201ctheir meticulous tailoring and timeless designs will continue to live on in the next chapter of Uniqlo U,\u201d signaling that the line has not reached the end of its life.<\/p>\n<p>For the last 10 years, Uniqlo U has served as the Japanese retailer\u2019s more elevated, design-forward range, coexisting with its established main line. <em>Binance<\/em> reported that in 2025, Uniqlo U may have contributed an estimated $1 billion in annual retail sales, amounting to 5% of Uniqlo\u2019s revenue for the fiscal year. Uniqlo U\u2019s consistent popularity was only amplified by the accelerating growth of Lemaire. According to <em>BoF<\/em>, Lemaire\u2019s sales grew from \u20ac10 million in 2019 to over \u20ac103 million in 2024. The relationship was mutually beneficial.<\/p>\n<p>In short, it was the right partnership at the right time. During the 2010s, fashion-conscious consumers began to take greater notice of quality and developed a taste for more considered minimalism amid rapid microtrends. It was the era when the \u201cnormcore\u201d aesthetic emerged and \u201cathleisure\u201d evolved into a distinct category in the fashion landscape. In tandem with Uniqlo\u2019s pared-back basics, Uniqlo U offered a meeting in the middle: a versatile balance of function and style, consistent newness executed with a timeless sensibility, and designer-approved pieces at accessible price points.\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"shortcode-slider before-booted full-screen-enabled light\" data-width=\"100%\" data-animate=\"slide\" data-slideshow data-loop data-slideshowspeed=\"7000\" data-group-cells=\"1\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"1\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">1 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Coated-Blouson-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"2\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">2 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Lambswool-V-Neck-Cardigan.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"3\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">3 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Hybrid-Down-Short-Jacket-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"4\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">4 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Satin-Combination-Dress.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"5\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">5 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"6\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">6 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Utility-Jacket.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"7\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">7 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-SUPIMA-Cotton-T-Long-Sleeve-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"8\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">8 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-4.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"9\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">9 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Brushed-Cotton-Shirt-Long-Sleeve.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"10\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">10 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Coated-Cotton-Shoulder-Bag.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"11\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">11 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Fishtail-Parka-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"12\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">12 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Hooded-Blouson-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"13\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">13 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Jersey-Tailored-Jacket-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"14\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">14 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>But the Lemaire-powered U label wasn\u2019t the first or only collaboration the retailer has had. The company had been perfecting its formula in the years leading up to Uniqlo U. Notably, it seemed to understand the movement toward minimalism with preceding collaborations: Jil Sander (2009), Undercover (2012), Theory (2014), and more. Shortly after a limited-edition Lemaire x Uniqlo collection in 2015, Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran were appointed the inaugural designers of the Uniqlo U line and the artistic directors of the company\u2019s R&amp;D (research and development) lab in Paris.\n<\/p>\n<p>Since then, the retailer has expanded its scope, maintaining ongoing collaborative lines with designer Jonathan Anderson, tennis player Roger Federer, and artist KAWS. Furthermore, in 2024, the company appointed Clare Waight Keller as global creative director and introduced her dedicated Uniqlo: C line. By 2025, Fast Retailing saw its Japanese revenue surpass 1 trillion yen, a first-ever for the company. While much of this can be attributed to global retail expansion, the label is also increasingly defined by its longstanding collaborators, so it\u2019s worth asking whether their departures could affect its success. With the brand saying farewell to the duo that has propped up its longest-running collaboration, what\u2019s next for Uniqlo U?\n<\/p>\n<p>The news leaves open questions about whether the company will appoint a new designer for the U line or if it can continue successfully without a collaborative leader. The retailer has invested deeply in relationships with some of the most respected designers, and it\u2019s the Lemaire duo who have done much of the heavy lifting for the brand over the last decade. Uniqlo stands out as a mass brand with maison-level designer affiliations, and if we can learn anything from the major fashion houses, it\u2019s that the DNA of the best creative directors remains long after their leadership concludes.<\/p>\n<div class=\"show-article\">\n<p>                                                            Read Full Article<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<footer>\n<div class=\"related-stories-main-wrapper\">\n<h3>Related Stories<\/h3>\n<div class=\"stories-container\" data-layer-list-name=\"related_stories\" data-layer-list-offset=\"0\" data-layer-list-child-selector=\".story-item\">\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773562\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>JW Anderson Explores Couples&#8217; Style for Its Latest \u201cTwisted Denim\u201d Campaign\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773226\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>Kith Unveils Fall 2026 Collection Featuring Needles and NFL Collaborations\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773364\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>Under Armour Names Gunna Global Brand Ambassador and Creative Director of P-Star\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-email-signup-wrapper impression-tracker\">\n<h3>We got you covered. Don\u2019t miss out on the latest news by signing up for our newsletters.<\/h3>\n<div class=\"terms\">By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-author d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-share d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brand-post-body-widget\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-block d-lg-none\">\n<h6>In This Article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content-tags\">\n<div class=\"body collapsed\">\n<p>    UniqloChristophe LemaireLemaireSarah-Linh Tran\n                                                            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"post__body__author_info\">\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F06%2F05%2Fnico-300.jpg?w=100&amp;cbr=1&amp;q=90&amp;fit=max\" alt=\"Nico Gavino\" class=\"post__body__author_info__avatar\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__body\">\n<p>                    Nico Gavino<\/p>\n<p>                                    <span class=\"post__body__author_info__title\">Associate Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__bio_wrapper\">\n<p class=\"post__body__author_info__bio\">Nico Gavino is a NYC-based writer with a focus on the intersection of pop culture and men\u2019s style. He has written more than 1,000 articles on Hypebeast in the last 2 years, spanning industry news, interviews, and long-form pieces. Interviews include Takashi Murakami, Missy Elliot, and major designers like Simone Bellotti, Tremaine Emory, and Jack Carlson. Previously, Nico has been quoted in publications like Sourcing Journal and Fashionista, and acted as a trend advisory to notable names like Timberland. Deeply interested in aesthetics and subcultures, his articles tie emerging fashion currents to shifts in the wider cultural landscape.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"post-footer\" class=\"post-footer row\">\n<div class=\"col-shopping-break\">\n<hr>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col-comments\">\n<div id=\"comments\" class=\"post-comments none \">\n<header>\n<div class=\"heading\"><span class=\"comment-count\">0<\/span><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"comment-dropdown-tooltip\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"row post-body\">\n<aside class=\"post-body-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-upper\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-category d-none d-lg-block\">\n<p>    Fashion\n                                                                                                    <\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-published d-none d-lg-block\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/div>\n<ul class=\"post-body-sidebar-hype-comments-container list-unstyled d-none d-lg-block\">\n<li><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-sm-inline text\">Comments<\/span><\/span>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-author d-none d-lg-block\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-none d-lg-block\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-share d-none d-lg-block\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-none d-lg-block\">\n<div class=\"brand-sidebar-widget d-none d-lg-block\">\n<h6>In This Article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<article class=\"post-body-article\">\n<div id=\"post-body-top-bar\" class=\"post-body-top-bar d-block d-lg-none\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-share-meta-container\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-meta\"><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-category\"><\/p>\n<p>    Fashion<br \/>\n                                                    <\/span><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-published\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-hype-comments-container \"><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-none text\">Comments<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content\">\n<p>This week\u2019s unveiling of the latest Uniqlo U range not only marks the 10th anniversary of Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran\u2019s line, but also their final release as its head designers. After months of speculation, Uniqlo\u2019s messaging around the FW26 collection has explicitly confirmed the conclusion of their direction over Uniqlo U. However, the brand also stated that \u201ctheir meticulous tailoring and timeless designs will continue to live on in the next chapter of Uniqlo U,\u201d signaling that the line has not reached the end of its life.<\/p>\n<p>For the last 10 years, Uniqlo U has served as the Japanese retailer\u2019s more elevated, design-forward range, coexisting with its established main line. <em>Binance<\/em> reported that in 2025, Uniqlo U may have contributed an estimated $1 billion in annual retail sales, amounting to 5% of Uniqlo\u2019s revenue for the fiscal year. Uniqlo U\u2019s consistent popularity was only amplified by the accelerating growth of Lemaire. According to <em>BoF<\/em>, Lemaire\u2019s sales grew from \u20ac10 million in 2019 to over \u20ac103 million in 2024. The relationship was mutually beneficial.<\/p>\n<p>In short, it was the right partnership at the right time. During the 2010s, fashion-conscious consumers began to take greater notice of quality and developed a taste for more considered minimalism amid rapid microtrends. It was the era when the \u201cnormcore\u201d aesthetic emerged and \u201cathleisure\u201d evolved into a distinct category in the fashion landscape. In tandem with Uniqlo\u2019s pared-back basics, Uniqlo U offered a meeting in the middle: a versatile balance of function and style, consistent newness executed with a timeless sensibility, and designer-approved pieces at accessible price points.\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"shortcode-slider before-booted full-screen-enabled light\" data-width=\"100%\" data-animate=\"slide\" data-slideshow data-loop data-slideshowspeed=\"7000\" data-group-cells=\"1\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"1\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">1 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Coated-Blouson-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"2\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">2 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Lambswool-V-Neck-Cardigan.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"3\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">3 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Hybrid-Down-Short-Jacket-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"4\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">4 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Satin-Combination-Dress.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"5\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">5 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"6\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">6 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Utility-Jacket.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"7\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">7 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-SUPIMA-Cotton-T-Long-Sleeve-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"8\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">8 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-4.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"9\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">9 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Brushed-Cotton-Shirt-Long-Sleeve.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"10\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">10 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Coated-Cotton-Shoulder-Bag.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"11\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">11 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Fishtail-Parka-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"12\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">12 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Hooded-Blouson-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"13\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">13 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Jersey-Tailored-Jacket-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"14\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">14 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>But the Lemaire-powered U label wasn\u2019t the first or only collaboration the retailer has had. The company had been perfecting its formula in the years leading up to Uniqlo U. Notably, it seemed to understand the movement toward minimalism with preceding collaborations: Jil Sander (2009), Undercover (2012), Theory (2014), and more. Shortly after a limited-edition Lemaire x Uniqlo collection in 2015, Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran were appointed the inaugural designers of the Uniqlo U line and the artistic directors of the company\u2019s R&amp;D (research and development) lab in Paris.\n<\/p>\n<p>Since then, the retailer has expanded its scope, maintaining ongoing collaborative lines with designer Jonathan Anderson, tennis player Roger Federer, and artist KAWS. Furthermore, in 2024, the company appointed Clare Waight Keller as global creative director and introduced her dedicated Uniqlo: C line. By 2025, Fast Retailing saw its Japanese revenue surpass 1 trillion yen, a first-ever for the company. While much of this can be attributed to global retail expansion, the label is also increasingly defined by its longstanding collaborators, so it\u2019s worth asking whether their departures could affect its success. With the brand saying farewell to the duo that has propped up its longest-running collaboration, what\u2019s next for Uniqlo U?\n<\/p>\n<p>The news leaves open questions about whether the company will appoint a new designer for the U line or if it can continue successfully without a collaborative leader. The retailer has invested deeply in relationships with some of the most respected designers, and it\u2019s the Lemaire duo who have done much of the heavy lifting for the brand over the last decade. Uniqlo stands out as a mass brand with maison-level designer affiliations, and if we can learn anything from the major fashion houses, it\u2019s that the DNA of the best creative directors remains long after their leadership concludes.<\/p>\n<div class=\"show-article\">\n<p>                                                            Read Full Article<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<footer>\n<div class=\"related-stories-main-wrapper\">\n<h3>Related Stories<\/h3>\n<div class=\"stories-container\" data-layer-list-name=\"related_stories\" data-layer-list-offset=\"0\" data-layer-list-child-selector=\".story-item\">\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773562\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>JW Anderson Explores Couples&#8217; Style for Its Latest \u201cTwisted Denim\u201d Campaign\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773226\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>Kith Unveils Fall 2026 Collection Featuring Needles and NFL Collaborations\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773364\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>Under Armour Names Gunna Global Brand Ambassador and Creative Director of P-Star\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-email-signup-wrapper impression-tracker\">\n<h3>We got you covered. Don\u2019t miss out on the latest news by signing up for our newsletters.<\/h3>\n<div class=\"terms\">By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-author d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-share d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brand-post-body-widget\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-block d-lg-none\">\n<h6>In This Article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content-tags\">\n<div class=\"body collapsed\">\n<p>    UniqloChristophe LemaireLemaireSarah-Linh Tran\n                                                            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"post__body__author_info\">\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F06%2F05%2Fnico-300.jpg?w=100&amp;cbr=1&amp;q=90&amp;fit=max\" alt=\"Nico Gavino\" class=\"post__body__author_info__avatar\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__body\">\n<p>                    Nico Gavino<\/p>\n<p>                                    <span class=\"post__body__author_info__title\">Associate Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__bio_wrapper\">\n<p class=\"post__body__author_info__bio\">Nico Gavino is a NYC-based writer with a focus on the intersection of pop culture and men\u2019s style. He has written more than 1,000 articles on Hypebeast in the last 2 years, spanning industry news, interviews, and long-form pieces. Interviews include Takashi Murakami, Missy Elliot, and major designers like Simone Bellotti, Tremaine Emory, and Jack Carlson. Previously, Nico has been quoted in publications like Sourcing Journal and Fashionista, and acted as a trend advisory to notable names like Timberland. Deeply interested in aesthetics and subcultures, his articles tie emerging fashion currents to shifts in the wider cultural landscape.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-upper\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-category d-none d-lg-block\">\n<p>    Fashion\n                                                                                                    <\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-published d-none d-lg-block\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/div>\n<ul class=\"post-body-sidebar-hype-comments-container list-unstyled d-none d-lg-block\">\n<li><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-sm-inline text\">Comments<\/span><\/span>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-author d-none d-lg-block\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-none d-lg-block\">\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-share d-none d-lg-block\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-none d-lg-block\">\n<div class=\"brand-sidebar-widget d-none d-lg-block\">\n<h6>In This Article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-category d-none d-lg-block\">\n<p>    Fashion\n                                                                                                    <\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-published d-none d-lg-block\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-author d-none d-lg-block\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-sidebar-share d-none d-lg-block\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<article class=\"post-body-article\">\n<div id=\"post-body-top-bar\" class=\"post-body-top-bar d-block d-lg-none\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-share-meta-container\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-meta\"><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-category\"><\/p>\n<p>    Fashion<br \/>\n                                                    <\/span><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-published\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-hype-comments-container \"><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-none text\">Comments<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content\">\n<p>This week\u2019s unveiling of the latest Uniqlo U range not only marks the 10th anniversary of Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran\u2019s line, but also their final release as its head designers. After months of speculation, Uniqlo\u2019s messaging around the FW26 collection has explicitly confirmed the conclusion of their direction over Uniqlo U. However, the brand also stated that \u201ctheir meticulous tailoring and timeless designs will continue to live on in the next chapter of Uniqlo U,\u201d signaling that the line has not reached the end of its life.<\/p>\n<p>For the last 10 years, Uniqlo U has served as the Japanese retailer\u2019s more elevated, design-forward range, coexisting with its established main line. <em>Binance<\/em> reported that in 2025, Uniqlo U may have contributed an estimated $1 billion in annual retail sales, amounting to 5% of Uniqlo\u2019s revenue for the fiscal year. Uniqlo U\u2019s consistent popularity was only amplified by the accelerating growth of Lemaire. According to <em>BoF<\/em>, Lemaire\u2019s sales grew from \u20ac10 million in 2019 to over \u20ac103 million in 2024. The relationship was mutually beneficial.<\/p>\n<p>In short, it was the right partnership at the right time. During the 2010s, fashion-conscious consumers began to take greater notice of quality and developed a taste for more considered minimalism amid rapid microtrends. It was the era when the \u201cnormcore\u201d aesthetic emerged and \u201cathleisure\u201d evolved into a distinct category in the fashion landscape. In tandem with Uniqlo\u2019s pared-back basics, Uniqlo U offered a meeting in the middle: a versatile balance of function and style, consistent newness executed with a timeless sensibility, and designer-approved pieces at accessible price points.\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"shortcode-slider before-booted full-screen-enabled light\" data-width=\"100%\" data-animate=\"slide\" data-slideshow data-loop data-slideshowspeed=\"7000\" data-group-cells=\"1\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"1\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">1 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Coated-Blouson-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"2\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">2 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Lambswool-V-Neck-Cardigan.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"3\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">3 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Hybrid-Down-Short-Jacket-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"4\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">4 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Satin-Combination-Dress.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"5\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">5 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"6\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">6 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Utility-Jacket.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"7\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">7 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-SUPIMA-Cotton-T-Long-Sleeve-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"8\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">8 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-4.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"9\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">9 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Brushed-Cotton-Shirt-Long-Sleeve.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"10\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">10 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Coated-Cotton-Shoulder-Bag.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"11\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">11 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Fishtail-Parka-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"12\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">12 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Hooded-Blouson-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"13\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">13 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Jersey-Tailored-Jacket-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"14\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">14 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>But the Lemaire-powered U label wasn\u2019t the first or only collaboration the retailer has had. The company had been perfecting its formula in the years leading up to Uniqlo U. Notably, it seemed to understand the movement toward minimalism with preceding collaborations: Jil Sander (2009), Undercover (2012), Theory (2014), and more. Shortly after a limited-edition Lemaire x Uniqlo collection in 2015, Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran were appointed the inaugural designers of the Uniqlo U line and the artistic directors of the company\u2019s R&amp;D (research and development) lab in Paris.\n<\/p>\n<p>Since then, the retailer has expanded its scope, maintaining ongoing collaborative lines with designer Jonathan Anderson, tennis player Roger Federer, and artist KAWS. Furthermore, in 2024, the company appointed Clare Waight Keller as global creative director and introduced her dedicated Uniqlo: C line. By 2025, Fast Retailing saw its Japanese revenue surpass 1 trillion yen, a first-ever for the company. While much of this can be attributed to global retail expansion, the label is also increasingly defined by its longstanding collaborators, so it\u2019s worth asking whether their departures could affect its success. With the brand saying farewell to the duo that has propped up its longest-running collaboration, what\u2019s next for Uniqlo U?\n<\/p>\n<p>The news leaves open questions about whether the company will appoint a new designer for the U line or if it can continue successfully without a collaborative leader. The retailer has invested deeply in relationships with some of the most respected designers, and it\u2019s the Lemaire duo who have done much of the heavy lifting for the brand over the last decade. Uniqlo stands out as a mass brand with maison-level designer affiliations, and if we can learn anything from the major fashion houses, it\u2019s that the DNA of the best creative directors remains long after their leadership concludes.<\/p>\n<div class=\"show-article\">\n<p>                                                            Read Full Article<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<footer>\n<div class=\"related-stories-main-wrapper\">\n<h3>Related Stories<\/h3>\n<div class=\"stories-container\" data-layer-list-name=\"related_stories\" data-layer-list-offset=\"0\" data-layer-list-child-selector=\".story-item\">\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773562\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>JW Anderson Explores Couples&#8217; Style for Its Latest \u201cTwisted Denim\u201d Campaign\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773226\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>Kith Unveils Fall 2026 Collection Featuring Needles and NFL Collaborations\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<div class=\"story-item\" data-layer-item-id=\"6773364\" data-layer-item-blog-id=\"1\" data-layer-item-type=\"post\"><span>&gt;<\/span>Under Armour Names Gunna Global Brand Ambassador and Creative Director of P-Star\n                                                                        <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-email-signup-wrapper impression-tracker\">\n<h3>We got you covered. Don\u2019t miss out on the latest news by signing up for our newsletters.<\/h3>\n<div class=\"terms\">By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-author d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-share d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brand-post-body-widget\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-block d-lg-none\">\n<h6>In This Article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content-tags\">\n<div class=\"body collapsed\">\n<p>    UniqloChristophe LemaireLemaireSarah-Linh Tran\n                                                            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"post__body__author_info\">\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__inner\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F06%2F05%2Fnico-300.jpg?w=100&amp;cbr=1&amp;q=90&amp;fit=max\" alt=\"Nico Gavino\" class=\"post__body__author_info__avatar\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__body\">\n<p>                    Nico Gavino<\/p>\n<p>                                    <span class=\"post__body__author_info__title\">Associate Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post__body__author_info__bio_wrapper\">\n<p class=\"post__body__author_info__bio\">Nico Gavino is a NYC-based writer with a focus on the intersection of pop culture and men\u2019s style. He has written more than 1,000 articles on Hypebeast in the last 2 years, spanning industry news, interviews, and long-form pieces. Interviews include Takashi Murakami, Missy Elliot, and major designers like Simone Bellotti, Tremaine Emory, and Jack Carlson. Previously, Nico has been quoted in publications like Sourcing Journal and Fashionista, and acted as a trend advisory to notable names like Timberland. Deeply interested in aesthetics and subcultures, his articles tie emerging fashion currents to shifts in the wider cultural landscape.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<div id=\"post-body-top-bar\" class=\"post-body-top-bar d-block d-lg-none\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-share-meta-container\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-meta\"><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-category\"><\/p>\n<p>    Fashion<br \/>\n                                                    <\/span><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-published\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-hype-comments-container \"><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-none text\">Comments<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-share-meta-container\">\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-meta\"><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-category\"><\/p>\n<p>    Fashion<br \/>\n                                                    <\/span><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-published\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-meta\"><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-category\"><\/p>\n<p>    Fashion<br \/>\n                                                    <\/span><span class=\"post-body-top-bar-published\"><time class=\"timeago\" datetime=\"2026-08-27T14:26:53Z\">1 day ago<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-top-bar-hype-comments-container \"><span class=\"hype-count grey\"><br \/>\n             2.8K<br \/>\n    <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Views<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"disqus-comment-count\"><span>0<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"d-none d-none text\">Comments<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"floating-tooltip\" role=\"tooltip\"><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"text\">Save<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content\">\n<p>This week\u2019s unveiling of the latest Uniqlo U range not only marks the 10th anniversary of Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran\u2019s line, but also their final release as its head designers. After months of speculation, Uniqlo\u2019s messaging around the FW26 collection has explicitly confirmed the conclusion of their direction over Uniqlo U. However, the brand also stated that \u201ctheir meticulous tailoring and timeless designs will continue to live on in the next chapter of Uniqlo U,\u201d signaling that the line has not reached the end of its life.<\/p>\n<p>For the last 10 years, Uniqlo U has served as the Japanese retailer\u2019s more elevated, design-forward range, coexisting with its established main line. <em>Binance<\/em> reported that in 2025, Uniqlo U may have contributed an estimated $1 billion in annual retail sales, amounting to 5% of Uniqlo\u2019s revenue for the fiscal year. Uniqlo U\u2019s consistent popularity was only amplified by the accelerating growth of Lemaire. According to <em>BoF<\/em>, Lemaire\u2019s sales grew from \u20ac10 million in 2019 to over \u20ac103 million in 2024. The relationship was mutually beneficial.<\/p>\n<p>In short, it was the right partnership at the right time. During the 2010s, fashion-conscious consumers began to take greater notice of quality and developed a taste for more considered minimalism amid rapid microtrends. It was the era when the \u201cnormcore\u201d aesthetic emerged and \u201cathleisure\u201d evolved into a distinct category in the fashion landscape. In tandem with Uniqlo\u2019s pared-back basics, Uniqlo U offered a meeting in the middle: a versatile balance of function and style, consistent newness executed with a timeless sensibility, and designer-approved pieces at accessible price points.\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"shortcode-slider before-booted full-screen-enabled light\" data-width=\"100%\" data-animate=\"slide\" data-slideshow data-loop data-slideshowspeed=\"7000\" data-group-cells=\"1\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel\">\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"1\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">1 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Coated-Blouson-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"2\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">2 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Lambswool-V-Neck-Cardigan.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"3\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">3 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Hybrid-Down-Short-Jacket-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"4\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">4 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Satin-Combination-Dress.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"5\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">5 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-3.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"6\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">6 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Utility-Jacket.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"7\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">7 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-SUPIMA-Cotton-T-Long-Sleeve-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"8\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">8 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Ws-Lambswool-Stand-Collar-Cardigan-4.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"9\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">9 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Brushed-Cotton-Shirt-Long-Sleeve.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"10\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">10 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Coated-Cotton-Shoulder-Bag.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"11\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">11 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Fishtail-Parka-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"12\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">12 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Hooded-Blouson-1.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"13\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">13 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n                                    <source srcset=\"https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2FKV-26FW-Uniqlo-U_Jersey-Tailored-Jacket-2.jpg?q=90&amp;w=2180&amp;format=jpeg&amp;cbr=1&amp;fit=max\" media=\"<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2),<br \/>\n                                        (min-width: 1200px) and (min-resolution: 192dpi)<br \/>\n                                    \" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flickity-carousel-cell\" data-gallery-index=\"14\"><span class=\"gallery-image-index\"><span class=\"image-index\">14 of 14<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-caption alignnone\">\n<p class=\"wp-caption-text credit-wrapper\"><span class=\"credit\">Uniqlo<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>But the Lemaire-powered U label wasn\u2019t the first or only collaboration the retailer has had. The company had been perfecting its formula in the years leading up to Uniqlo U. Notably, it seemed to understand the movement toward minimalism with preceding collaborations: Jil Sander (2009), Undercover (2012), Theory (2014), and more. Shortly after a limited-edition Lemaire x Uniqlo collection in 2015, Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran were appointed the inaugural designers of the Uniqlo U line and the artistic directors of the company\u2019s R&amp;D (research and development) lab in Paris.\n<\/p>\n<p>Since then, the retailer has expanded its scope, maintaining ongoing collaborative lines with designer Jonathan Anderson, tennis player Roger Federer, and artist KAWS. Furthermore, in 2024, the company appointed Clare Waight Keller as global creative director and introduced her dedicated Uniqlo: C line. By 2025, Fast Retailing saw its Japanese revenue surpass 1 trillion yen, a first-ever for the company. While much of this can be attributed to global retail expansion, the label is also increasingly defined by its longstanding collaborators, so it\u2019s worth asking whether their departures could affect its success. With the brand saying farewell to the duo that has propped up its longest-running collaboration, what\u2019s next for Uniqlo U?\n<\/p>\n<p>The news leaves open questions about whether the company will appoint a new designer for the U line or if it can continue successfully without a collaborative leader. The retailer has invested deeply in relationships with some of the most respected designers, and it\u2019s the Lemaire duo who have done much of the heavy lifting for the brand over the last decade. Uniqlo stands out as a mass brand with maison-level designer affiliations, and if we can learn anything from the major fashion houses, it\u2019s that the DNA of the best creative directors remains long after their leadership concludes.<\/p>\n<div class=\"show-article\">\n<p>                                                            Read Full Article<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-author d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider share-divider\">\n<h6>Text By<\/h6>\n<p><span class=\"author-name\">Nico Gavino<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-share d-block d-lg-none\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider\">\n<h6>Share this article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"brand-post-body-widget\">\n<hr class=\"sidebar-divider d-block d-lg-none\">\n<h6>In This Article<\/h6>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"post-body-content-tags\">\n<div class=\"body collapsed\">\n<p>    UniqloChristophe LemaireLemaireSarah-Linh Tran\n                                                            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/hypebeast.com\/2026\/8\/uniqlo-u-christophe-lemaire-sarah-linh-tran-exit&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/image-cdn.hypb.st\/https%3A%2F%2Fhypebeast.com%2Fimage%2F2026%2F08%2F27%2Flemaire-tw.jpg?w=1080&amp;cbr=1&amp;q=90&amp;fit=max&#8221;] Fashion 1 day ago 2.8K Views 0\u00a0Comments Comments Save Text By Nico Gavino Share this article In This Article Fashion 1 day ago 2.8K Views 0\u00a0Comments Comments Save This week\u2019s unveiling of the latest Uniqlo U range not only marks the 10th anniversary of Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran\u2019s line, but also [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,39],"class_list":["post-2116707","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-hypebeast-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2116707","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2116707"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2116707\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2116707"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2116707"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2116707"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}