Issey Miyake Quotes

Fashion designer
Japan
1938

Issey Miyake is a Japanese fashion designer known for his innovative and avant-garde designs. He rose to fame in the 1980s with his signature pleated garments, which were created using a unique technique called “garment pleating.” Miyake’s designs are characterized by their fluidity, simplicity, and functionality, often incorporating elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics. He has collaborated with various artists and designers, including Steve Jobs and William Forsythe, and has received numerous awards for his contributions to the fashion industry. Some of his notable works include the “Pleats Please” collection, the “A-POC” (A Piece of Cloth) project, and the “132 5.” collection. Miyake continues to push the boundaries of fashion and inspire future generations with his innovative and sustainable designs.Read Less

3 Interesting Issey Miyake Quotes

The purpose – where I start – is the idea of use. It is not recycling, it’s reuse. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Issey Miyake, Ideas, Purpose, 0

- Issey Miyake

Fashion designer

· Japan

A great thing happening now in art is that artists are using the figure, the body, clothing, life. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Issey Miyake, Art, Body, Figures, 0

- Issey Miyake

Fashion designer

· Japan

Even when I work with computers, with high technology, I always try to put in the touch of the hand. Feraz Zeid, December 23, 2023, Issey Miyake, Hands, Technology, 0

- Issey Miyake

Fashion designer

· Japan

Issey Miyake Career Highlights

In 1965, Miyake graduated from the Tama Art University in Tokyo, where he studied graphic design.
He began his career as a designer in 1966, working for the fashion designer, Guy Laroche, in Paris.
In 1970, he returned to Japan and established the Miyake Design Studio in Tokyo.
In 1971, he launched his first collection, which was a huge success and received critical acclaim.
In 1973, he introduced his signature pleating technique, known as the “garment pleating” technique, which revolutionized the fashion industry.
In 1978, he launched his first perfume, L’eau d’Issey, which became an instant hit and is still one of the best-selling perfumes in the world.
In 1983, he launched his first men’s collection, which was well-received and helped establish him as a designer for both men and women.
In 1993, he collaborated with renowned photographer Irving Penn for a series of photographs featuring his designs, which were later exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
In 1999, he launched his first line of handbags, which became a must-have accessory for fashion enthusiasts.
In 2000, he received the Design for Asia Award for his contributions to the fashion industry.
In 2005, he collaborated with Apple Inc. to design a limited edition iPod case, showcasing his ability to merge fashion and technology.
In 2010, he was awarded the Order of Culture by the Japanese government for his significant contributions to the arts and culture of Japan.
In 2016, he was honored with the Isamu Noguchi Award for his innovative use of materials and his contribution to the field of design.

Key Contributions by Issey Miyake

Miyake’s signature pleating technique, known as the “garment pleating” technique, has become synonymous with his brand and has been widely imitated by other designers.
He has been a pioneer in using unconventional materials such as polyester, paper, and plastic in his designs, challenging the traditional use of fabrics in fashion.
He has collaborated with artists, photographers, and musicians, such as Irving Penn, William Forsythe, and Björk, to create unique and groundbreaking fashion shows and exhibitions.
He has expanded his brand to include not just clothing, but also accessories, fragrances, and home goods, making his brand a lifestyle choice for his customers.
He has been a strong advocate for environmental sustainability in the fashion industry, using eco-friendly materials and promoting the concept of “less is more” in his designs.

What Sets Issey Miyake Apart

Miyake’s designs are known for their simplicity, functionality, and innovation, making them timeless and versatile.
He has a deep understanding of traditional Japanese aesthetics and incorporates them into his designs, giving them a unique and distinct identity.
He has a strong focus on technology and has used it to push the boundaries of fashion, creating garments that are both visually stunning and technologically advanced.
He has a global perspective and has successfully merged Eastern and Western influences in his designs, making them appealing to a diverse audience.
He has a strong commitment to social responsibility and has used his platform to raise awareness about important issues such as sustainability and cultural diversity.

Takeaways

Issey Miyake’s career highlights and key contributions have solidified his position as one of the most influential and innovative fashion designers of our time.
His unique approach to design, use of unconventional materials, and collaborations with artists have set him apart from other designers and have made him a trendsetter in the fashion industry.
His designs are not just about aesthetics, but also about functionality and sustainability, making them relevant and timeless.
Miyake’s brand is a reflection of his values and beliefs, making it more than just a fashion label, but a lifestyle choice for his customers.
His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of designers to push the boundaries of fashion and create designs that are not just beautiful, but also meaningful.