« EXPOSITION en COURS » Number 2 / KOJI TATSUNO : An exhibited donation

Couturier, Azzedine Alaïa was also a collector. Throughout his life, he established the largest private collection of fashion archives. This collection, now preserved by his foundation, provides an exhaustive account of all the developments in fashion and costume from the 19th century to the present day.

As he wished, this legacy, equivalent to that of a museum, continues to grow in terms of clothing and creations.

It is in this context of donation that the presentation of ten creations designed and imagined by Koji Tatsuno and donated by his daughter Lila takes place. Originally from Japan, Koji Tatsuno moved to London in 1980 at the age of 18. He devoted himself to Antiquities. In 1983, together with a friend, he founded a fashion label ‘Culture shock’ before opening his own tailoring and made-to-measure atelier, with the support of designer Yohji Yamamoto.

Koji Tatsuno's work is in the same direct vein as the minimalist trends that dictated fashion in the 1990s. He also distinguishes himself by the effort and use of noble or unusual materials, which he combines with dexterity and poetry. As a master tailor, he renews the art of pattern-making in the designs of his cuts, freely using the generous lines of an omnipresent and inspiring nature. Passionate about research and experimentation, he is a pioneer using origami to create garments that are part of the heritage and history of contemporary fashion. Koji Tatsuno has also worked with other designers, including Paul Smith and John Galliano. He also gave a chance to the young Alexandre McQueen by taking him on in his atelier, proof of his open-mindedness, always fertile and present in all his creations.

The Foundation would like to thank Koji Tatsuno, Isabelle Peyrut and their daughter Lila for their donation, which significantly and fundamentally defines a segment of contemporary fashion design.