Akane Hotta and SHIPS Unveil First-Ever Collaboration
Japanese model and actress Akane Hotta has partnered with the renowned fashion brand SHIPS for their inaugural collaboration, launching a collection designed for the modern, busy woman. The collaboration, which emphasizes both aesthetic beauty and unparalleled comfort, will be available starting March 5, 2026, at SHIPS WOMEN stores and the official SHIPS online shop. Eager fashion enthusiasts can get a head start, as pre-orders commenced on February 26, 2026, coinciding with the release of a special web content feature.
This collection stems from Akane Hotta’s unique perspective, honed through years of experience in the fashion industry and a lifestyle that often involves extensive travel. The core concept revolves around creating “clothes that allow you to be natural and effortless, even in a busy daily life.” The collaboration prioritizes not only visual appeal but also stress-free wear, ease of movement, and practical, everyday functionality.
The Philosophy Behind the Collection
Akane Hotta’s extensive background as a model, having worn countless outfits, deeply influenced the design process. Her personal experiences, particularly with the demanding nature of frequent travel, fueled the desire for garments that offer both elegance and comfort. The collection aims to seamlessly blend into various daily scenarios, offering versatility for both on and off-duty occasions. The four-piece lineup features basic designs infused with subtle elements of “adult cuteness.”
Hotta herself shared her passion for the project: “Having worn countless clothes over my 13 years as a model, I was able to fully leverage my experience to pursue ultimate comfort. Even for short shoots, comfortable clothing uplifts your mood, while uncomfortable attire can weigh you down. Knowing how much clothing impacts one’s feelings, I’m confident in recommending these pieces for their comfort. The design quality was a given, but achieving the ideal feel and ease of care required numerous discussions with SHIPS, and we made it happen.”
Featured Items from the AKANE HOTTA × SHIPS Collection
Each piece in the collection is thoughtfully designed with practicality and style in mind:
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TEXBRID® Gathered Blouse
This cropped blouse boasts an exquisite length that pairs well whether tucked in or left out. Its slightly extended sleeves add a touch of subtle richness, while generous gathering at the back creates a graceful silhouette. Crafted from “TEXBRID®” polyester, it offers water repellency, wrinkle resistance, and quick-drying properties, making it an easy-care and reliable everyday garment.
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Price (tax included): ¥19,250
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Sizes: One size
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Colors: Beige, Black, Off-white
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Eyelet Knit Cardigan
A lightweight and striking cardigan featuring a lace-like openwork knit, perfect as a statement piece. It uses 100% long-staple cotton, processed with special spinning technology to suppress pilling, resulting in a silk-like luster and smooth feel. Three fine cotton yarns are twisted together for a crisp texture and beautiful surface. The wide ribbed hem creates a balanced silhouette that flatters the waist. Ideal for spring and even cool summer evenings, it’s a dependable item to carry in your bag.
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Price (tax included): ¥18,700
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Sizes: One size
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Colors: Off-white, Black, Light blue
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Georgette Skirt
This skirt offers a sleek I-line silhouette for an elegant impression. Made from a stretchy fabric with a back slit for ease of movement, it balances a refined look with comfortable wear. It comes with a removable slim belt for versatile styling and features deep pockets for added convenience.
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Price (tax included): ¥18,700
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Sizes: 36, 38
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Colors: Brown, Black
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Double Cloth Pants
A versatile pair of pants with a minimalist design, seamlessly blending into both dressy and casual looks. The voluminous double-cloth material creates a beautiful, three-dimensional silhouette, while the gently flared line exudes sophisticated elegance. They offer a comfortable, stretchy fit and practical deep pockets for essentials like lipstick or a smartphone, making them a functional choice for daily life.
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Price (tax included): ¥19,800
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Sizes: 36, 38
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Colors: Black, Beige
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Where to Find the Collection
The full collection can be explored and purchased via the following channels:
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Reservation Sales (from February 26, 2026):
- SHIPS Official Online Shop: https://www.shipsltd.co.jp/
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General Sales (from March 5, 2026):
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SHIPS WOMEN stores
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SHIPS Official Online Shop: https://www.shipsltd.co.jp/
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For a complete look at all items, visit: https://www.shipsltd.co.jp/e/eshipsw260226/
Special Web Content Unveiled
To celebrate this first-time collaboration, a special web content page has been launched. It showcases newly shot visuals featuring Akane Hotta, delves into her specific design preferences for each item, and offers styling tips for integrating the pieces into everyday wear.
Explore the “Akane Hotta × SHIPS” Special Web Content here: https://www.shipsltd.co.jp/pages/sp_shipsw_akanehotta_collaboration_20260226.aspx
The Future of Effortless Japanese Fashion
This collaboration between Akane Hotta and SHIPS highlights a growing trend in Japanese fashion: the harmonious blend of sophisticated style with practical comfort. As the demand for versatile and wearable clothing continues to rise globally, collections like this demonstrate how Japanese brands are leading the way in creating pieces that empower individuals to navigate their busy lives with grace and ease. This focus on thoughtful design and wearer well-being is sure to resonate with fashion enthusiasts worldwide, further solidifying Japan’s influence on global fashion trends, particularly within the ‘kawaii’ sensibility that values both charm and functionality.
