THE BRAND

Kenzo is a renowned fashion label based in Paris, known for its unwavering values and nature-inspired collections. The brand's distinct tiger logo has become iconic. In 2019, creative director Oliveira Baptista initiated a special collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund to raise awareness about the fashion industry's environmental impact. Kenzo's clothing collections celebrate nature, incorporating prints and patterns that embody its essence. The brand is also recognized for its unstructured forms, creating loose and voluminous silhouettes that prioritize comfort and coziness.

HISTORY

In 1964, aspiring designer Kenzo Takada relocated to Paris to pursue a career in fashion. He opened a boutique called 'Jungle Jap' at Galerie Vivienne, featuring jungle-inspired interiors and handmade women's clothing. In 1976, the brand transformed into Kenzo after a fashion show in New York, as the term 'Jungle Jap' was deemed derogatory in the American market. Over the years, Kenzo expanded its offerings, introducing men's, kids, and home collections in 1983, 1987, and fragrances in 1988. Today, Kenzo is helmed by Gilles Rosier and Roy Krejberg, as founder Kenzo Takada enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

DESIGNER

Kenzo Takada was born in Himeji, a city in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, in 1939. He studied at the Bunka College of Fashion in Tokyo and embarked on a journey to explore diverse cultures and traditions worldwide. Inspired by his experiences, Kenzo incorporated long-established prints and patterns into his brand's creations, establishing the famous Kenzo signature. Rejecting the conventions of high fashion, the Japanese visionary, captivated by urban savannahs, unleashed his imagination to prove that creativity can be accessible to everyone.