Though Paris and Milan have traditionally been famous for their fashion designers, Japan has also made contributions to the fashion world. Though fewer in number than their European and American counterparts, Japanese designers are continually gaining recognition for their unique creations.
Issey Miyake
Issey Miyake graduated from the Tama University of Arts. He worked for Givenchy and established his own design studio in 1970 and Miyake International Inc. in 1971. He makes his mark with unique takes on traditional Japanese textiles as well as architecturally inspired clothing. Miyake is also well known for his perfumes. He believes in the beauty of simplicity for designs and that there is no one right way to wear his creations.
Yohji Yamamoto
Yohji Yamamoto is a graduate of Keio University and Bunka Fashion College. Yamamoto's designs typically feature black, white and navy with the occasional addition of color. He strives to create clothing that is classic and timeless rather than trendy. Though he began designing in 1970, it wasn't until 1977 that he had a show of his fashions. He is also the only Japanese designer to be awarded the Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et Lettres.
Rei Kawakubo
One of the first major Japanese forces in fashion, Rei Kawakubo, provided the force behind Comme des Garcons, which was established in 1973. Black, grey and white dominate her designs, and they often are deconstructed or lacking in parts, such as a leg or sleeve. Kawakubo did not formally train in fashion design but did work in a textile factory for a time. She is a member of the Chambre Syndicale du Pret-a-Porter in Paris.
Mana
Mana gained initial fame with the band Malice Mizer. He later branched out into fashion, with the label moi meme moite. Clothes from this label are part of the Elegant Gothic Lolita style, meaning that they are a mix of goth and Victorian styles with an innocent softness. Mana has seen success in fashion as well as music, as that particular style is very popular within the youth culture of Japan. Moi meme moite is known by some in the international goth community, but not to the degree that it enjoys within Japan.
Kenzo Takada
Kenzo Takada was one of the first male students to attend the Bunka Fashion Collge in Tokyo. He moved to Paris in 1964 and opened his first shop, called Jungle Jap, in 1970. Takada is known for his more traditionally Japanese works, as well as the shape of his creations. He has also designed housewares and furniture. In 1999, he gave control of his business to his assistants.
