Few art and fashion collaborations have travelled as far as KAWS x UNIQLO. What began as a graphic tee partnership became one of the most collected clothing lines of the last decade, putting a genuine contemporary artist on high street shelves worldwide. This guide covers the collaboration, the pieces worth knowing, how they fit and how to style them. Shop the range in the KAWS x UNIQLO collection at Shoe Religion.
What is KAWS x UNIQLO?
KAWS is the working name of American artist Brian Donnelly, whose crossed-out eyes and cartoon-derived characters, above all the figure known as Companion, have become some of the most recognisable imagery in contemporary art. UNIQLO's UT line is its graphic T-shirt platform, built around collaborations with artists and cultural properties.
Put the two together and you get the appeal: original KAWS artwork on a well-made, accessibly priced cotton tee. Releases have historically sold out quickly, and certain drops have become genuinely hard to find, which is what turned a high street collaboration into a collector's category.
The pieces to know
- KAWS x Uniqlo UT Short Sleeve Graphic T-Shirt Black and the White version - the core of the range.
- KAWS x Uniqlo UT Artbook Cover T-Shirt - an art-led design that stands apart from the character graphics.
- KAWS x Warhol UT Graphic T-Shirt - the crossover with Andy Warhol imagery, explained in our KAWS x Warhol guide.
- KAWS x Uniqlo Valentine T-Shirt - a seasonal release with a distinctive graphic.
- KAWS x Uniqlo Longsleeve Sweatshirt - the heavier option for cooler weather.
For a full breakdown of the tees, see our UT T-shirt buyer's guide.
How do KAWS x UNIQLO tees fit?
UNIQLO UT tees generally fit true to size with a fairly straight, regular cut rather than the boxy oversized shape common in streetwear. Many people size up one for a looser, more contemporary silhouette. Our KAWS x UNIQLO sizing guide covers this properly.
How to style them
The graphic is the statement, so keep everything else calm. A black or white KAWS tee with straight jeans and a clean sneaker is the default, and it works with almost any pair in the Air Force 1 or Dunk family. Full outfit ideas are in how to style KAWS x UNIQLO tees.
Collecting considerations
Because releases are limited and repeatedly sell out, condition, colourway and the specific drop all affect how sought-after a piece is. If you are buying to keep, look after it: cold wash, inside out, air dry, and avoid ironing the graphic directly. We cover authenticity checks in how to spot genuine KAWS x UNIQLO.
Frequently asked questions
Who is KAWS? American artist Brian Donnelly, known for the Companion character and his signature crossed-out eyes. More in who is KAWS.
Do KAWS x UNIQLO tees fit true to size? Generally yes, with a regular cut. Size up for a looser fit.
Why are they so collectible? Limited releases, genuine artist involvement and consistent sell-outs have made certain drops difficult to find.
Where can I buy KAWS x UNIQLO in the UK? Shop the KAWS x UNIQLO collection at Shoe Religion.
Related reading: Who Is KAWS? | UT Buyer's Guide | Best KAWS Pieces