Last Updated: 2025.09.16
UNIQLO and Toray Celebrate The Art and Science of LifeWear at Special Event in the Museum of Modern Art, New York
One-night-only event showcased UNIQLO's technology innovations and global partnerships,
featuring very special guest speakers and interactive exhibition
UNIQLO CO., LTD.
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Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today held a special event at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York City, on its 20th anniversary of operations in the United States. The event, The Art and Science of LifeWear, was held in cooperation with UNIQLO's strategic technology partner Toray Industries, and showcased the unique technologies and innovations behind UNIQLO's LifeWear. The event also highlighted the many partnerships evolving LifeWear, featuring Cate Blanchett's first appearance as the brand's newest Global Brand Ambassador, and the surprise announcement of its first-ever Artist In Residence, contemporary artist KAWS.
From left to right: Mitsuo Ohya (President, Toray Industries); Roger Federer; Clare Waight Keller;
Tadashi Yanai (UNIQLO Founder, and Chairman, President & CEO of Fast Retailing); Cate Blanchett;
KAWS; John C. Jay (President of Global Creative, Fast Retailing)
In his keynote speech at the event, UNIQLO Founder, and Chairman, President & CEO of Fast Retailing, Tadashi Yanai said, "Today marks the 20th anniversary of UNIQLO opening its very first store in the United States, in 2005. On this anniversary, I am thrilled that we could showcase LifeWear in New York's iconic Museum of Modern Art, which has been a partner of UNIQLO for over ten years. Ever since we launched UNIQLO, our mission has been to better society through clothing. Embodying this mission is LifeWear, created on the strong foundation of our partnership with Toray. Going forward, we will continue to work with Toray to anticipate changes in lifestyles, create clothing that goes beyond the conventional wisdom of the past, and provide customers everywhere with clothing that offers true value and meaning."
Also speaking at the event, President of Toray Industries, Inc., Mitsuo Ohya, said, "Toray began doing business with UNIQLO in 1999 and formed a strategic partnership in 2006. Our shared purpose is to create clothing that makes everyone's life better. In order to fashion iconic LifeWear that captivates the world, we remain committed to pushing the limits of technology and unlocking the potential of materials to deliver new value."
Following the keynote speeches, a special panel discussion followed featuring UNIQLO Global Brand Ambassadors Roger Federer and Cate Blanchett, hosted by UNIQLO Creative Director Clare Waight Keller. This was the first public appearance of Ms Blanchett in her role as Global Brand Ambassador, following her appointment in August. In a lively conversation, the panelists discussed life and LifeWear - offering their own unique perspectives on style, speaking about the meaning of their partnerships with UNIQLO, and what excites them about the future of the brand.
Speaking during the panel session, Cate Blanchett said, "It shouldn't be a luxury to have good quality, well-made clothes and I think that's in the DNA of the UNIQLO brand."
To conclude the event, UNIQLO announced the appointment of its first-ever Artist in Residence, contemporary artist KAWS, who took to the podium to speak about his new role, which will enhance initiatives through art events held at UNIQLO stores around the world and alongside the brand's various museum partners. As Artist in Residence, KAWS will also play a role in the development of future LifeWear products, with the first collection arriving in 2025 Fall/Winter.
The event also invited attendees to explore interactive displays showcasing the pillars of LifeWear. In the 'Technology For All' section, guests could explore the innovative collaborations between UNIQLO and Toray. The 'Art For All' section celebrated the next generation of UNIQLO's partnership with MoMA. Finally, the 'Heart For All' display showcased UNIQLO's commitment to helping improve the lives of all people around the world through LifeWear.
