Japanese Designer Kenzo Takada Dies at 81
The founder of KENZO passed away from complications due to COVID-19.
Kenzo Takada, the Japanese designer and founder of fashion label KENZO, has died following complications related to COVID-19. The fashion icon passed away at the American Hospital in Neuilly-sur-Seine in France, The Business of Fashion reports. He was 81.
“It is with immense sadness that KENZO has learned of the passing of our founder, Kenzo Takada,” the brand writes on Instagram. “For half a century, Mr. Takada has been an emblematic personality in the fashion industry — always infusing creativity and color into the world. Today, his optimism, zest for life and generosity continue to be pillars of our Maison. He will be greatly missed and always remembered.”
Born in Himeji, Japan, Takada was the first Japanese designer to gain prominence in Paris. After graduating from the Bunka College of Fashion, the fashion pioneer moved to France in the 1960s and debuted his fashion line in 1970 with the opening of his Paris boutique, Jungle Jap.
A master of color and bold prints, the designer went on to launch his menswear range in 1983. His eponymous label KENZO was purchased by the conglomerate LVMH in 1993. Following the brand acquisition, he retired from fashion in 1999. Earlier this year, Takada launched K-3, a luxury homeware brand.
“Kenzo Takada has, from the 1970s, infused into fashion a tone of poetic lightness and sweet freedom which inspired many designers after him,” Bernard Arnault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of LVMH, pays tribute to the designer in a statement. “In this fresh and spontaneous spirit, he also durably renewed the world of perfume. The House he had established, KENZO, still explores his vision. I’m very sad to learn about his passing and express my sincerest sympathy to his family and friends.“
