Yohji Yamamoto

Tokyo, Japan

Since 1977

Born in Tokyo, 1943. Graduated from university with law degree, then attended fashion school at Bunkafuluso Gakuin, receiving two leading Japanese fashion awards in 1969. Presented first collection in Tokyo, 1977, and in Paris, 1981 . Has designed costumes for numerous international opera and film productions, and collaborated with fashion brands such as Adidas and Hermes. Recipient of multiple awards, including "Chevalier de L'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres" nomination from the French Minister of Culture in 1994 and the CFDA International Award, 1999. Believes "the real art is making people happy, but also asking questions about society."