London based Japanese fashion designer Kei Kagami originally studied architecture at Meiji University and also studied tailoring at Bunka Fashion College in his native Tokyo in Japan.
After completing both courses in 1989, Kei began working at the studio of Japan’s iconic architect Kenzo Tange. Despite the privileged position this job gave, he wasn’t fulfilled and decided to leave for London with his determination to do fashion. In the summer of 1989, he ended up on the doorstep of John Galliano. John realized his potential, set him to work, and became his mentor. After having worked for three seasons at Galliano, the studio had to be closed and Kei decided to enroll at Central Saint Martins, where he completed an MA in Fashion Design in 1992. He was rewarded with the final position in the graduation catwalk show. In a vintage year, fellow classmate Alexander McQueen had to settle for the next best spot. The rest is history. As for Kei’s conceptual pieces, they have been displayed in museums and galleries across the world.
© YKK London.
