This spring sees a retrospective of one of the most enigmatic and influential fashion designers of the last forty years, Yohji Yamamoto. From now until July 10th the Victoria & Albert Museum plays host to an installation of the designer's greatest works, the first major solo show in the UK, showcasing over 80 of his most inspiring pieces of mens and womenswear.
Famed for abstract silhouettes, bespoke Japanese textile work and creative silhouettes, Yamamoto established his own label in 1971, holding his first show in Tokyo in 1977. By the time he first showed in Paris in 1981 the label was a hit in Japan and the rest, as they say, is history.
I studied Yamamoto's work as part of the Radical Fashion exhibition at the V&A in 2001, and since then have been yearning to see more. Fans of his simultaneously complex and yet simplistic style will undoubtedly enjoy this retrospective, truly a sight to behold.
At the V&A Museum, South Kensington, until July 10th 2011. For further information and ticket details visit www.vam.ac.uk/exhibitions/index.html
Love Laurel x
