Fashion Show Day

What Is Fashion Show Day?

September 21st is "Fashion Show Day" in Japan. On September 21, 1927, Japan's first fashion show was held at the Mitsukoshi kimono store in Nihonbashi, Tokyo (today's Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store). The models were three stage actresses, including the first Yaeko Mizutani, who wore kimono made from designs submitted by the public and performed Japanese traditional dance.

Japan's Fashion Shows Began With Kimono and Dance

Japan's first fashion show featured kimono rather than Western clothes. It was notable for combining the display of garments with stage performance.

• Opening of Mitsukoshi Hall: The show was one of the events celebrating the opening of Mitsukoshi Hall (today's Mitsukoshi Theater) on the store's sixth floor.
• A three-day run: It was held for three days, from September 21 to 23, and is said to have drawn large crowds every day.
• Designs from the public: The kimono worn by the models were based on designs solicited from the general public.

The First Yaeko Mizutani, One of the Models

One of the models, the first Yaeko Mizutani (1905–1979), went on to a long career as a leading actress of shinpa theater. The pamphlet from the time shows the models in kimono as well as scenes of them performing Japanese dance, and the novel idea of a "fashion show" became a big talking point.

Things to Know About Fashion Shows

• "Collections" and "fashion weeks": Large fashion shows are often called "collections" in Japan, while in English they are known as "fashion weeks" because they run over several days.
• Haute couture and prêt-à-porter: "Haute couture" refers to high-end made-to-order garments, while "prêt-à-porter" refers to high-end ready-to-wear.
• The major cities: Ready-to-wear collections are customarily held in succession in New York, London, Milan, and Paris.
• Japan's fashion week: Tokyo also holds a fashion week where Japanese and international brands present new collections.

Ideas for Fashion Show Day

• Pick a favorite outfit from your closet that lifts your mood, and head out in it.
• Add a color you don't usually choose, even if it's just one accessory.
• Look up the meanings of kimono patterns and motifs.
• Watch collection videos from brands you like and check out this season's trends.

What We Wear Is Our Most Familiar Form of Self-Expression

September 21st is the day Japan's first fashion show was held. Nearly 100 years ago, it began with kimono and Japanese dance; today, fashion shows have grown into a stage where brands from around the world compete with their new collections. Why not enjoy your outfit a little more than usual in front of the mirror today?