High fashion may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Pokémon, but Prabal Gurung intends to change that. The CFDA Member has just released a special capsule collection that is wholly inspired by those charming creatures, in time for Pokémon’s 20-year celebration. The pieces, launching at Jeffrey New York this week, evoke the same glamour that has become the Prabal Gurung signature. The references are in the details: the characters are alluded to in subtle, charming, and elegant ways.

We had to find out more about this unlikely but seemingly perfect pairing, which was put together by the CFDA, so we asked Gurung directly.

What about this opportunity excited you?

As a luxury brand with soul, our woman appreciates glamour, has a strong conviction towards social responsibility, and has depth. However, her primary quality is optimism and joy. Having fun and evoking levity in her surroundings contribute to her depth. We were thrilled to partner with Pokémon to bring out this aspect of her strong personality.

Have you always been a Pokémon fan?

I was raised in Nepal, and grew up traveling across Asia, so Pokémon was a part of my childhood. I am definitely a big fan! It was exciting to engage with the characters in this new way. I am so excited to share my more humorous side, which is a more private side, through this collection.

How did the inspiration and your design aesthetic come together for the collection?

Each piece draws on the silhouettes, colors, and facial elements of these iconic Pokémon, and are met by some of our signature Prabal Gurung collection pieces: t-shirts, knits, bomber jackets, and dresses. The essence of the characters, not just their aesthetic, are captured and highlighted in the elevated details.

What’s your favorite piece from the collection?

I love all of the pieces, however, I am personally most excited to be sporting the t-shirt and bomber.

How will the collection appeal to customers who may not be Pokémon fans?

The collection draws on the iconic Pokémon characters’ colors and silhouettes, however, it transcends beyond the literal meaning through nuanced details that will resonate with our customer. The overall glamour, fun, and wearability is there, and these hidden details make this capsule special. The idea is for the customer to discover the iconic Pokémon elements like hidden gems.

How have you drawn inspiration from fictional characters in the past?

We are often inspired by fictional characters across literature, art, music, and film, however, our collections are always created with the same muse in mind — a woman with a strong back-story, powerful convictions, confidence, and grace. To design based on fictional characters is always so stimulating. It really transports you. The Pokémon characters are all so optimistic and spirited. So, especially given all that has been going on in our country, it was wonderful to escape to this optimistic fictional world. I plan to continue to draw on this energy to move forward with hope and a brighter outlook.

If you could spend a day with one Pokémon character, which one would it be? 

I’d love to spend a day with Jigglypuff. I feel he is my spirit animal! He is known for being so happy, he sometimes explodes with joy. I’d let Jiggly plan our day and I’d be thrilled to go along for the ride, to experience his eternal positive energy and happiness.

If you could send a Pokémon down your runway, which one would it be?

I’d love to see Charmander go down the runway. His tail can light on fire. Now that is an unforgettable finale moment meant for social media.