PARIS, Jan 28, 2007/ FW/ --- Ichiban, the Japanese word for ‘first born son’ or for a simple translation, it means ‘number one.’ John Galliano continuing his Japanese vision that he started with Christian Dior Haute Couture last week tackled the world of the ninja and the samurai for menswear.

With Christian Dior, it was the willowy world of the geisha, and with his eponymous menswear, John Galliano brought the radical, mysterious and fierce world of the Japanese warrior.

That said, the collection is dark; black is the main color, which is actually in tune with the ninja reputation of being a shadowy figure. Hence, the oversized leather trench coats were created from black leather and so were the slim fitting trousers embellished with aluminum rivets shaped like tiny balls.

Galliano also used high tech fabric, choosing black and different shades of gray to create tunics and trench coats. Denim was also presented in different washes, be in jeans, vests or jackets.

Long sleeved tees featured graffiti-inspired prints that were either symbols or emblems of the ninja or very modern like the white caricature of Vinny Boy cartoon.

The ninja boots or ‘jika-tabi’ lost its split toe, but remained utilitarian and very silent because there were no heels. It came in to styles – mid calf or knee high. The knee-high boots sometimes featured embossed graphical and stylized designs.

And of course, there are the two-tone sneakers, which was probably inspired by the classic ‘Converse’ shoes. It has taken a new life as the upper part was matched with the trousers.

John Galliano

John Galliano

John Galliano

John Galliano