Adam Lippes traveled to Japan last December, visiting Tokyo and Kyoto while staying at a traditional ryokan in Shuzenji. Like many who visit, he returned inspired by what he described as “a culture always striving for perfection.” His recent collections have drawn from his travels—Sicily influenced his pre-fall line, and now Japan has shaped his resort collection.

He highlighted a geometric mosaic-print shirtdress in navy, chocolate brown, gold, plum, and persimmon, citing Robert Motherwell’s Lyric Suite, a series of ink paintings on delicate rice paper that gave them a translucent quality. Japan’s influence on this collection was understated but present—in the relaxed cut of balloon pants, reminiscent of workwear, or the loose sleeves of wrap shirts, which echo the flow of a summer yukata. A floral print drew inspiration from a Meiji-era lacquer box.

But you don’t need to be a Japan enthusiast to appreciate these pieces, whether it’s the rich sheen of a burgundy lacquered wool trench or the soft texture of a brushed mohair jacket. His “sweatsuits” in plush double-faced merino knit are so luxurious, you’ll never settle for ordinary cotton again. “It’s sportier, less formal,” he said, flipping through racks at a photoshoot. “We’re shifting away from dresses toward separates—it just feels right. A sheath dress is easy to design, but women want more interesting shapes now.”

This applies to eveningwear as much as daywear. A quilted silk-and-lurex bandeau top paired with a slim skirt felt nearly weightless, while a sleek V-neck gown flowed effortlessly over the body, crafted with a single seam using Japanese pattern-making techniques. He also showcased a crinkled silk-and-metal tank dress. “It’s a bit bold for me to leave it unpressed,” he laughed, proving that his pursuit of perfection can lead to unexpectedly stunning results.