Takada, Kenzo (1940-)

Dates

• Existence: 1940-

Biography

Kenzo Takada was born in Himeiji, Japan, in 1940 to traditional innkeeper parents. His interest in fashion developed at an early age through reading his sister's magazines. Aged 18, following the wishes of his parents, he attended the University of Kobe to study literature. Dissatisfied and bored with the course, he left for Tokyo's Bunka Fashion College - against his parents' wishes - where he was one of the first male students to be admitted. In 1960, he won the prestigious Soen prize and began working for the Sanai department store as a designer of girl's clothing, making up to 40 styles every month.

In 1964, Kenzo moved to Paris. Over the next few years, he worked for various department stores, the Pisanti textile group and Relations Textiles. His first designs feature a mix of bold fabrics, from which he was only able to afford from flea markets. Kenzo Takada's success started in 1970, he had his first show and opened his first store Jungle Jap. The shop later moved to 28 Passage Choiseul in Paris' 2e arrondissement, where his clothes started attracting more attention. His designs featured in American Vogue in 1971, where his smock tent dresses, oversized dungarees, enlarged armholes, original shoulder shapes and unique store were slated by the publication as the next development in the Paris boutique scene. In 1971 he presented his collections in New York and Tokyo, and in the following year won the Fashion Editor's Club of Japan's award. He developed a knack for over the top shows, which he presented in circus themed tents. He launched his first men's collection in 1983 and a women's perfume in 1988 named Kenzo de Kenzo. The Kenzo brand is currently owned by LVMH, and in 1999 Kenzo Takada retired, leaving his assistant in charge of his fashion house. In 2005, he re emerged as a decorative designer, creating Gokan Kobo, a brand of tableware and home furnishings.

Found in 15 Collections and/or Records: