Kenzo Founder Kenzō Takada Has Died Due To COVID-19 Complications
The accomplished designer passed away in Paris at age 81
Designer Kenzo Takada. (Photo: Victor Boyko/Getty Image)
As reported by the BBC, a statement revealed that Kenzo Takada passed away at the American Hospital of Paris in Neuilly-sur-Seine. The designer had been based in France for most of his career. Per the BBC, "Born in 1939 near Osaka, Kenzō Takada arrived in France in 1965 by boat and settled in Paris."
As noted by WWD, the Kenzo label was acquired by LVMH for $80.5 million in 1993. Despite leaving the brand in 1999, the designer continued to collaborate with Kenzo through the years, while also pursuing other artistic ventures.
Takada recently launched a luxury homeware and lifestyle brand called K三 (pronounced K3), of which he was the artistic director, in collaboration with Jonathan Bouchet Manheim, Engelbert Honorat, and Wanda Jelmini. According to the brand's official website, "the French at heart Japanese designer, has conceptualized an extensive, yet meticulously curated collection, including chairs, sofas, tables, rugs, bed linens, home textiles and accessories, with the support of their team.”
Related article: Review of Kenzo Spring Summer 2021 Collection
The brand's official Instagram account paid tribute to the designer. "It is with great sadness that we have learned that our dear friend Kenzo Takada passed away today," the caption explained. "He was an inspiring and prodigious creator and we were proud to collaborate with him and his exceptional team. We will always remember his smile and joie de vivre.
Bernard Arnault, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of LVMH, also paid tribute to the acclaimed designer: “Kenzo Takada has, from the 1970´s, infused into fashion a tone of poetic lightness and sweet freedom which inspired many designers after him. In this fresh and spontaneous spirit, he also durably renewed the world of perfume. The House he had established, KENZO, still explores his vision. I’m very sad to learn about his passing and express my sincerest sympathy to his family and friends."
Related article: Your First Look At The New Kenzo x Vans Sneaker Collaboration
“For half a century, Mr. Takada has been an emblematic personality in the fashion industry - always infusing creativity and color into the world. Today, his optimism, zest for life and generosity continue to be pillars of our Maison. He will be greatly missed and always remembered. “ declared Sylvie Colin, CEO of the Maison. while Felipe Oliveira Baptista, Artistic Director of Kenzo added: “It is with great sadness that I have learned the passing away of Mr. Kenzo Takada. His amazing energy, kindness and talent were contagious. His kindred spirit will live forever. Rest in peace Master."
The accomplished designer was named the the honorary president of the Asian Couture Federation in 2013, and was made a Knight of the Legion of Honor in Paris in 2016.
This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.
Related article: Kenzo Names Felipe Oliveira Baptista As New Creative Director