After a two-year break, Tomo Koizumi has enthusiastically re-entered the fashion scene. The designer shared his initial thoughts of exploring different artistic avenues, such as painting, and even held a gallery exhibition in Tokyo during his hiatus. However, the compelling pull of fashion, partly fueled by the proliferation of tulle designs mimicking his distinctive style, ultimately led him back. This return was solidified by a brilliant new concept aimed at future brides: empowering them to embrace vivid colors and personal expression on their special day.
Koizumi passionately asserts that muted tones lack excitement, especially for a wedding, which he believes is a prime opportunity for the bride to truly shine. He revealed that he had received numerous requests from brides worldwide over recent years but felt unprepared to meet their demands until now. Inspired by the Asian tradition of renting wedding attire, he has decided to offer brightly colored, voluminous garments, providing the flexibility for brides to mix and match individual pieces. This innovative approach not only promotes sustainability and affordability but also allows brides to venture beyond their everyday style, an idea Koizumi finds particularly appealing.
The designer is commencing his new venture on a modest scale, presenting a curated selection of expansive skirts crafted from approximately 80 meters of premium Japanese organza, paired with intricately adorned bustiers. Some of these bustiers are ingeniously upcycled from traditional kimonos, which are less frequently chosen by modern brides. An added advantage of these exquisite pieces is their versatility; they are not exclusively for weddings but are equally suitable for other grand events, such as galas and red-carpet appearances. In line with a more deliberate fashion philosophy, Koizumi intends to release one collection annually. Beyond his bridal line, he is also dedicating his creativity to distinctive accessories, including a unique doughnut-shaped sateen purse, drawing inspiration from puff sleeves, and long gloves embellished with three-dimensional embroidered roses. Recently, he launched a highly anticipated sneaker collaboration with Nike at Dover Street Market in Ginza, featuring an iridescent upper, customizable Swoosh logos, and playful ruffled or sparkling attachments. This project inadvertently sparked a new personal interest for him; after meeting Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce during the campaign photoshoot, Koizumi has embraced daily runs of five to seven kilometers, finding it a more engaging way to explore cities and a preferable alternative to conventional gym workouts.
Tomo Koizumi's journey demonstrates a resilient spirit and a commitment to innovation in fashion. By challenging conventional norms in bridal wear and embracing a slower, more thoughtful creative process, he not only redefines elegance but also inspires a fresh perspective on personal expression and mindful consumption. His story reminds us that true passion often finds its way back, enriching industries and lives with renewed purpose and vibrant vision.