Yohji Yamamoto

In a lecture this week my lecturer mentioned this designer, Yohji Yamamoto. I had heard the name before, and thought it was a good idea to read a little bit more into him, as it was mentioned he works predominately with black, which is still my subject matter. My plan was to just read more about him, but once I got on google I fell into a world of genius and so have decided to write a little post about him, his life, his achievements.

Yohji Yamamoto is a Japanese fashion designer based in Tokyo and Paris, born 3rd October 1943. Yamamoto started his life by graduating from Keio University with a degree in law in 1966. He chose to change his path from legal career to assist his mother in her dressmaking business, which is where he learned the skills to tailor. He then continued to study fashion design at Bunka Fashion College, getting his degree in 1969. Yamamoto's Tokyo Collection debut was in 1977, and his Paris debut in 1981.

"I think that mens clothes look just as good on women [...] when I started designing, I wanted to make men's clothes for women." - Yohji Yamamoto

He is known for the innovative and forward-thinking spirit in his clothing, as he is frequently creating designs that differ greatly form the current trends. He is again known for his signature oversized silhouettes, which often feature some form of drapery made in varying textures and fabrics.

Yamamoto described black as, "Modest and arrogant at the same time. Black is lazy and easy - but mysterious. But above all black says this, "I don't bother you - don't bother me.""

Yohji Yamamoto has won countless awards for his contribution to fashion, including; The Chevalier of Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, The Medal on Honour with Purple Ribbon, The Ordre National du Mérite, The Royal Designer for Industry and The Master Design award by The Fashion Group International.

I am to finish this post with my favourite looks from Yohji Yamamoto's Fall 2017 Ready to Wear Collection.

"I jumped on the idea of designing coats for women. It meant something to me – the idea of a coat guarding and hiding a woman’s body. I wanted to protect the woman’s body from something – maybe from men’s eyes or a cold wind.” - Yohji Yamamoto

Ta Ta for now, my lovelies.

Miss Blue