10 years ago. If anyone had told me that at the age of 25 I would be sitting in front of a computer facing Kenzo Takada and interviewing him, I would have never believed. Well, it happened and I have no choice but to believe, and be happy for chances like this. A chance given to me by AVON. ♥
Kenzo Takada is the world famous designer and founder of luxury brand Kenzo Paris. Yet, many still have no idea it’s been about 20 years since he stepped down from the brand. However, Mr. Takada still goes to the fashion shows, and has very good relations with the current designers Humberto Leon and Carol Lim, according to what he told me.
Here are some of the highlights from what Kenzo Takada and I talked about in our 15-minute talk. A brief but inspiring conversation that left me inspired by the positivity of a creative person like himself, who at a very respectful age continues to not just work, but to grow in a spiritual sense.
On what he is currently working on…
He has got a lot of demand for various projects at the moment, but mainly he’s working for his project for AVON, which is shortly to be released. Kenzo says he is also involved in other lifestyle initiatives including some within home decor and compiling a book, archiving 30 years of his most prominent works.
On why he stepped down from fashion…
After 30 years of intense work at Kenzo Paris, he just felt like he needs to retire, and have a rest, as working in fashion is very intense. But it took him a few months to get bored with his retirement, he says. So, the decision to continue working on easier projects that he can still relate to came quickly. That’s how he got involved into home decor in 2004.
On the favorite moment of his career…
With a good dose of confidence and no hesitation, he says his favorite moment was when he was just starting. He had no money. He could barely speak French, but he also had no fears. A feeling he would love to come back to.
On what today’s Kenzo would say to the 20-year-old Kenzo…
Thank you, thank you and try to remain as young as possible.
On how he keeps his body and spirit young…
Looking at Kenzo Takada, no one would ever assume he is at the age of 79. It might be his Japanese genes to blame, but there’s something more to it. He has learnt to take care of himself in the morning, doing yoga, having regular massages and nurturing his body with good and healthy food. But Kenzo believes it’s not just that. He thinks it’s his curiosity to life that keeps him young. Going to exhibitions, reading books, traveling & surrounding himself with talented and creative young people all contribute to his wellbeing. Young mind – young body.
On what he’s currently reading…
Kenzo Takada was born and grew up in Japan, but he spent his entire adult life as a French. So, he feels the need to go back to his roots by reading books for samurai.
On what he knows about Bulgaria…
Not much to his regret, but he’d love to explore it.
On my invitation to visit Rose Festival…
With a sincere smile and a glitter in his eyes, it is obvious that Kenzo would have never anticipated such an invite as a result of this conversation. But he really welcomes the idea with an open heart.
On the best advise he’d give me…
To have dreams to pursue and never stop pursuing them even through bad times. To keep pushing and pushing. And to search for right balance in everything I do, finding my right identity.
