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Issey Miyake (Japanese: 三宅 一生, Hepburn: Miyake Issei; April 22, 1938 – August 5, 2022) was a renowned Japanese fashion designer. He was celebrated for his innovative, technology-driven clothing designs, as well as for his exhibitions and fragrances, including the popular L'eau d'Issey.

Issey Miyake was born on April 22, 1938, in Hiroshima, Japan. Growing up during World War II, Miyake experienced the devastating effects of the atomic bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima in 1945. This traumatic event deeply influenced his worldview and later, his artistic vision. After the war, he witnessed the rebuilding of Japan, which fostered in him a sense of resilience and innovation.

In 1958, Miyake moved to Tokyo to pursue his passion for design. He enrolled in the Tama Art University, where he studied graphic design. His education provided him with a solid foundation in the principles of design and aesthetics, but it was his time in Paris and New York that truly shaped his approach to fashion.

In the early 1960s, Miyake moved to France to study at the École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. There, he absorbed the European fashion scene and was influenced by the work of notable designers. Following his studies, he returned to Japan, where he began to synthesize his experiences into his unique style.

Miyake's career took off in the late 1960s when he founded the Miyake Design Studio in Tokyo in 1970. He gained international recognition for his innovative designs that merged traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern technology. His early collections emphasized simplicity and functionality, often using innovative textiles and techniques.

One of his breakthrough moments came in 1988 with the launch of the “Pleats Please” line. This collection showcased his ability to combine fashion with art, utilizing pleating techniques that allowed garments to be lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. The pleated garments became an iconic representation of his brand, symbolizing his philosophy that clothing should enhance the wearer's experience rather than restrict it.

In 1993, he debuted his "A-POC" (A Piece of Cloth) concept, which further pushed the boundaries of fashion. A-POC garments were designed to be made from a single piece of fabric, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability. This innovative approach resonated with the growing emphasis on environmentally-conscious fashion.

Miyake was not only a fashion designer but also an artist and technologist. He collaborated with various artists and scientists throughout his career, blending fashion with art, technology, and culture. His designs often incorporated elements of Japanese craftsmanship, emphasizing the beauty of simplicity and the importance of the process.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Miyake continued to push boundaries, launching various lines such as "Issey Miyake," "Issey Miyake Men," and "L'Eau d'Issey," a fragrance that became immensely popular. His ability to adapt and innovate ensured that his brand remained relevant in an ever-changing fashion landscape.

In addition to his design work, Miyake was dedicated to nurturing the next generation of designers. He established the Issey Miyake Foundation, aimed at promoting creativity and innovation in the field of design. This commitment to education and mentorship reflected his belief in the importance of passing on knowledge and inspiration.

Issey Miyake passed away on August 5, 2022, leaving behind a profound legacy that has shaped the world of fashion. His contributions to the industry extended beyond design; he was a pioneer in sustainable fashion practices, emphasizing the importance of ethical production methods and innovative materials. His approach to fashion challenged traditional notions of beauty and functionality, encouraging a more holistic understanding of clothing.

Miyake's influence continues to resonate with contemporary designers who seek to explore the intersection of art, technology, and fashion. His innovative techniques, such as the use of cutting-edge textiles and pleating methods, are being revisited and reinterpreted by new generations. Furthermore, his emphasis on sustainability and craftsmanship has paved the way for discussions around ethical fashion, prompting a shift in how designers approach their work.

The future of the Issey Miyake brand is being shaped by his dedicated team, who continue to honor his vision while exploring new horizons. The brand remains committed to innovation, often collaborating with artists and technologists to push the boundaries of fashion. In this way, Miyake's legacy is not only preserved but also evolves, inspiring future generations to think creatively about the role of fashion in society.

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2. English, Bonnie (2011). Japanese fashion designers : the work and influence of Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Rei Kawakubo. Oxford. ISBN 978-0-85785-054-6. OCLC 857064156.
3. "Issey Miyake – MOVES – Documentary". Vimeo. Retrieved 16 August 2020.
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5. Steve Jobs' black turtleneck reportedly explained in biography (Nathan Olivarez-Giles, Los Angeles Times, October 11, 2011)