From the Archive: Kitsch Meets Sophistication in Kenzo’s Signature Style

Kenzo Takada, simply known as Kenzo, was a fashion phenomenon with few expectations about his future in the industry. He described his brand to WWD as “sophisticated naivete,” blending creative whimsy with vibrant bursts of color, which remains true to its legacy. Debuting in 1970, his inclusive approach to ready-to-wear was unlike anything the industry had seen — but exactly what it needed.

In this article from WWD on Jan. 4, 1974, Kenzo looks ahead.

PARIS — Just a few seasons ago, Kenzo Takada burst on the world fashion scene like a Fourth of July fireworks display.

Looking ahead, the 34-year-old Japanese-born designer says that in 10 years he’ll probably be no longer involved in fashion.

“For the time being,” Kenzo says, “I like my job.” And for the time being, this is what he foresees in fashion: continuation of the present direction for at least two or three seasons with no drastic changes.

“Then, something radical will happen. I don’t know what the change will be, but it will be dramatic. The fashion world needs something like the impact of that first Courrèges collection again.”

Kenzo doesn’t know if he will be the one to bring about the revolution or whether he’ll be washed under by the next fashion wave. “Doomed? I hope not,” he laughs. “I think I know better than Courrèges how to dress women — how to bend.”

Kenzo believes very much in living in the present. “Every age and time has its problems. I escape a little bit from the tensions of today because I can’t read French so I never read newspapers. I think what is important is to be happy in yourself. If you are not happy, you can’t create. I think everyone should try to be calm. Not to be aggressive with the people around you. That’s the biggest contribution each individual can make to peace.

“As for clothes, they are a language — a way of speaking. People will always be interested in dressing up.”

He says his own attitude to the way he dresses is undergoing a subtle change. “I’ve always liked casual clothes — blue jeans, sweaters. Now, I want the best blue jeans I can find — the best sweaters.” — Patricia McColl