Career of Kiwa Anraku

Since 2003, I have been captivated by the allure and possibilities of kimono, leading me to create upcycled clothing from Western garments. This innovative approach garnered recognition, and I transitioned into becoming a fashion designer specializing in stage costumes for artists such as actresses, singers, flair bartenders, and flamenco performers. In 2013, I launched the "Toukabetsu Project," dedicated to promoting kimono culture, and took on the role of its representative. To date, we have successfully completed ten performances.

和studioKIWA

With a perspective that regards kimono as a textile, I propose original and upcycled custom fashion. The innovative designs, inspired by the patterns of kimono, are the hallmark of the KIWA brand.

Collections

The timeless classical poetry of "waka" continues to resonate in the hearts of contemporary people, seemingly linked to the revival of kimono culture in the present day, transcending time and space. Drawing inspiration from the "One Hundred Poets, One Poem Each" (Hyakunin Isshu) collection of waka poetry, I create garments. Using kimono fabrics to their fullest, I fashion dresses, formal wear, and stylish casual attire, mirroring the structure of haiku with one, five, seven, and five pieces corresponding to each poem, culminating in a presentation. The concept behind this collection is "The Revival of Kimono Culture in the Modern Era."