Issey Miyake

Born in Hiroshima, Japan in 1935, Miyake graduated in Graphic Design from Tama University in 1964. In the next year, he moved to Paris to study Fashion. Miyake worked for Larouche in 1966, then worked for Givenchy in 1968. He then traveled to New York for two years where he worked for Geoffrey Beene.

In 1970, Miyake founded the Miyake Design Studio in Tokyo. His first show was held in New York in 1971. He then held a second show in Paris two years later. His signature consists of the layered and wrapped look combined with textures and geometric shapes. His is considered to be Japan’s most visionary designer.

Miyake’s creativity is apparent in his sense of innovation and experimentation. In 1982, his ratton body sculpture is an ironically externalized cage of the body for which it serves instead of ideal pattern of ribs and structural lines. Miyake continues to experiment with various fibers to find the right medium for apparel. No other designer interprets his work as deliberately and thoughtful as Miyake.