First published in 1988, Rei Kawakubo’s Six challenged conventional fashion publishing by placing photography, art, architecture and film ahead of clothing. Across eight issues, the predominantly image-led magazine cultivated an elusive visual language inspired by the idea of a “sixth sense”—an instinctive perception rooted in the surreal. Its contributors included Robert Frank, Peter Lindbergh, Gilbert & George, Eileen Gray and Jean Cocteau.
After 35 years, Six returns with a window installation at Dover Street Market London, coinciding with Frieze London 2026. On view until November 13th, the project pairs archival covers and pages with contemporary imagery by photographers including Jack Davison and Flor Garduño, reconnecting Kawakubo’s original vision with a new generation of image-makers.
From archive to architecture
Kawakubo’s installation extends beyond the windows into the store’s interior, allowing archival imagery to interact with the space. The project forms part of a wider series spanning COMME des GARÇONS Aoyama in Tokyo and Dover Street Market Paris, with each location offering a distinct interpretation of the magazine’s visual language.
A limited-edition collection of 12 T-shirts featuring selected Six artworks accompanies the revival, available in-store and online. An exclusive print mailer also returns the publication to its original medium.
SIX by COMME DES GARÇONS
Installation at DOVER STREET MARKET LONDON, by REI KAWAKUBO
Images courtesy of COMME DES GARÇONS
