Page 13 - Real Style September 2017

person” and somebody who is “eager to learn some- thing new every day.”
With his decades of experience, Takada also re- ects on the evolving landscape of the business. Since Kenzo’s brave debut in 1970, technology, so- cial media and changing consumer behaviours have impacted the fashion industry.
“Nowadays, the fashion world is faster and more ephemeral, so it is a challenge to remain visible. You need to be more reactive, because of the “see now, buy now” model. Fashion brands have to adapt to this new business model and have to stock in ad- vance. What you see in a fashion show needs to be available the next day for the consumers,” he de- clares.
Takada may nd contemporary inspiration from working with his “young, talented and creative team,” but his creative in uences also span every- thing from lm and travel to his own fashion in- spirations. These include the formidable Yves Saint Laurent, whom Takada professes a
longtime admiration for that dates back to his student days. Although Saint Laurent died in 2008, Takada had an opportunity to work with the pioneering French designer and later became a close friend.
Half a decade after his move to Paris, Kenzo (and Takada) are any- thing but the new kids on the fashion block. The designer was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Fashion Editors’ Club of Japan earlier this year, for the third time. This is an accomplishment that Takada graciously describes as “al- ways an honour.”
“I was very lucky my whole life to be able to do what I wanted and do it freely. I owe my success to the public and the media, to all the peo- ple who believed in me and support- ed me through my entire career,” he
adds.
To wit, Kenzo’s designs have been spotted on
many celebrity style icons over the years. From superstar Beyoncé donning the label’s iconic tiger sweatshirt, to former First Lady Michelle Obama famously sporting a yellow Kenzo frock on a trip to Japan, it’s no secret that the brand has a devoted fan base. However, Kenzo’s versatility remains one of its greatest strengths, at least in the opinion of its founder.
“Stars have worn my designs, but I have never worked with one exclusively or had a muse. I al- ways had a democratic approach to design. My de- signs are meant for everyone; this is how I pretty much initiated the concept of “prêt-à-porter” in the fashion world,” Takada explains.
This becomes evident after a glance at the Kenzo Fall 2017 collection, where the label’s current co- creative directors Humberto Leon and Carol Lim have presented oversized printed parkas adorned
with checkered prints. Elsewhere, belted military jackets, black and white fringed skirts and reinvent- ed windbreakers all lend a chic feel to a utilitarian, functional line. Clearly, this all pays homage to Takada’s passion for comfort and colour—not to mention his insist- ence on wearabilily.
Musing on the de nition of style, Takada’s answer summariz- es the mindset that has ruled Ken- zo and seen its rise over the years. “For me, great style is de ned by harmony,” he says.
From a boy growing up in Himeji with dreams of Paris, to the modern day icon whose label has collaborated with the likes of H&M, it’s clear that Takada has truly found the harmony he has searched for, both on the catwalk, and away from the spotlight.
Becoming Kenzo Takada
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