Junya Watanabe Designer Country: Japan

Biography of Junya Watanabe

Junya Watanabe, a renowned fashion designer, was born in Japan in 1961. After completing his studies at the Bunkafukuso Gakuin Institute in Tokyo, he embarked on an internship at Comme des Garcons, where he worked as a designer for 10 years and later as the designer of the Comme des Garcons Tricot line for 7 years.

Under the patronage of Rei Kawakubo, Junya Watanabe began creating his own collection in 1994. Initially, his style resembled that of his mentor, Kawakubo, with a mix of bright and dark colors, whimsically placed or inverted pockets, dropped shoulders, and super-long sleeves. However, Watanabe's designs showcased a more pronounced layering, textures, and colors.

Fashion critics often define Junya Watanabe's style as 'techno-couture' due to the unique and intricate constructions of his garments. Initially, Watanabe specialized only in women's clothing, but by the spring-summer 2002 season, he also prepared a men's collection. All of the collections by the Japanese designer are released under the brand Junya Watanabe Comme des Garcons.