Eva Georgiou, Esvie Contributor
Fashion Designer
When does a Japanese Law student become an international fashion designer? When that designer is Yohji Yamamoto.
This distinctive designer is known for his advent- garde style and free spirit, frequently creating designs far removed from current trends. His signature oversized silhouettes, look unfinished, and play with the idea that the garments could be worn by both genders. Often in black, a colour he describes as ‘arrogant and modest at the same time’, they feature drapery in varying textures. And as with all his fabrics they are made in Japan and use traditional Japanese techniques.
His work has also become well known to consumers through his collaborations with other fashion brands such as Adidas and Hermes, as well as high profile artists, such as Elton John and Placebo.
As a highly regarded designer his work has now been turned into an exhibition, which is currently at The Victoria & Albert Museum. This is his first major solo UK show and is an installation based retrospective showcasing over 80 women’s and menswear garments, which are the most representative of his work. Yamamoto’s work stretches further across London with satellite instillations at the Wapping project sites.
Along with the exhibition the V&A shop are carrying, exclusive and limited addition fashion and accessories designed by Yamamoto, including bags, T-shirts, scarfs and also a stunning book to accompany the exhibition.
The exhibition is currently running from 12 March – 10 July 2011.
www.vam.ac.uk/collections/fashion/index.html
www.vam.ac.uk/collections/fashion/yohji-yamamoto/shop/index.html