Rei Kawakubo

Question 1

Artist profile:
Rei Kawakubo

Answer 1

-Japanese fashion designer based in Tokyo and Paris.

-Was not formally trained as a fashion designer, studied fine arts and literature

-Established her own company, Comme des Garçons, in 1989 and opened up her first boutique in 1975, both in Tokyo

Question 2

EoA/PoD:
Body Meets Dress, Dress Meets Body Collection, Spring/Summer 1997
By Rei Kawakubo

Answer 2

-Different unique forms are used throughout this entire collection

-Padding used at different parts of the clothing to make different forms stick out, making it unique to the viewer

-Collection is very colourful, deviating from Kawakubo’s usual style of monochrome black colours

-Many unique textures in every piece; mesh, waffle texture, paper, thick and thin fabrics, etc.

-Patterns vary from piece to piece, but the most common pattern used was a checkered pattern -> adds to the vibrancy and playfulness of this collection

-Variety of shapes and designs

Question 3

EoA/PoD:
Fall/Winter 2012/2013 Collection
By Rei Kawakubo

Answer 3

-Bright complimentary colours

-Many different forms throughout the collection, circular, angular and more square

-Patterns vary from piece to piece e.g. camo, leopard, florals, polka dots, and sequins.

-Variety of shapes and designs in every piece

Question 4

Main Idea Expressed:
Body Meets Dress, Dress Meets Body Collection, Spring/Summer 1997
By Rei Kawakubo

Answer 4

Represents the concept of a woman being physically attached to her burdens.
These burdens could be related to body dysmorphia, the beauty standards of women, or themes related to motherhood and feminism

Question 5

Main Idea Expressed:
Fall/Winter 2012/2013 Collection
By Rei Kawakubo

Answer 5

As more people experience fashion in the age of the internet, they only see each look flatly and from the front
-> total disconnect between the clothes and the emotions that come from experiencing fashion in all its dimensions.