Kenzo

Takada Kenzo is well known to be the founder of Kenzo, a worldwide brand of perfume, skincare products and clothing.

Japanese designer Kenzo's love for fashion began at an early age, his passion developed through reading the magazines of his sisters.

He briefly attended the university of Kobe in Hyogo, Japan before deciding to withdraw in order to further his interest in fashion. Due to the lack of support from his parents Kenzo had to work part time in Tokyo to support himself, whilst doing evening prep courses in design.

Months later Kenzo was accepted at Bunka Fashion college. He became one of the first male students to be admitted.

After obtaining his diploma Kenzo settled in Paris, in 1964. He started at the very bottom of the fashion industry by attending shows, selling sketches and making contacts. After making enough contacts he worked as a freelance designer moving on to open his first boutique 'Jungle Jap', in 1970.

Kenzo's early work showed a lot of reference to traditional Japanese styles however it was his big silhouette designs which gained him worldwide attention.

Kenzo launched his first menswear collection in 1983. Shortly after he began his perfume line with Kenzo de Kenzo (now known as Ca sent Beau), Parfum d'ete, Le monde est beau and L'eau par Kenzo. Kenzo par Homme, the brands first male perfume was released in 1991. The most famous fragrance for the brand is 'Flower by Kenzo'.

In 1991 Kenzo announced his retirement, leaving his fashion house under the responsibility of his assistants. However he reappeared as an interior designer presenting 'Gokan Kobo' (workshop of five senses), a brand of tableware, furniture and home items.