Needles x Kae Tanaka - H.D. Track Pant - Pink

Releasing Friday, April 18, at Nepenthes Los Angeles

The first collaboration between illustrator Kae Tanaka, known for her rising popularity across social media, and Needles will launch on Friday, April 18. The full collection of 14 items will be available at Nepenthes Los Angeles.

The capsule features a variety of items from apparel to accessories, incorporating unique icons and textiles that combine Tanaka’s original characters and their signature expressive eyes with Needles’ iconic Papillon motif.

The lineup includes Needles’ classic Track Series made with poly smooth and jacquard fabrics, a S/S One-Up Shirt in rayon reminiscent of a Hawaiian shirt, and a Cabana Shirt + H.D. Short set in all-over jacquard. Additional pieces like the Watch Cap and Loose Socks feature signature embroidery, rounding out a distinctively playful collection.

Artist Profile: Kae Tanaka

Kae Tanaka is an illustrator born in Yokohama, Japan. She graduated from the Department of Information Design, Media Arts Course at Tama Art University. Inspired by artists such as Osamu Tezuka and Hideo Azuma, she began creating illustrations that blend retro manga influences with a unique contemporary style.

Her work has garnered attention through collaborations across a diverse range of genres, including Nogizaka46, Onitsuka Tiger, BEAMS, New Japan Pro-Wrestling (El Desperado), the TV program Bakushō Hit Parade 2023, and Rock in Japan FES 2023.