Japan is known as an epicenter of cutting-edge fashion.
Although some Westerners still associate Japan with traditional Eastern-style dress, in reality the younger generations in Japan are quite open-minded about fashion and create new, cutting-edge styles almost daily. After post-war Japan was exposed to Western-style clothing, it began to adopt the fashion of the day and gradually adapt it to create entirely new styles. As a result, Japan is now one of the major epicenters for studying fashion design, and people all over the world look to the country for bold and experimental style. Studying at a fashion design school here will expose you to a fashion-conscious culture unlike any other, but it may prove difficult if you don't speak at least some Japanese.
Bunka Fukusou Gakuin
Bunka Fukusou Gakuin is considered one of the most famous design schools in Japan because many of its graduates have become well-known in the industry. Started in 1919 under the name Namiki Dressmaking School, it began publishing the fashion magazine "So-en" that's still in production today. The school also played a large part in developing a new female body-form that more accurately depicts the modern Japanese woman's dress size and measurements. There are 70 branches of the school throughout Japan, and it offers an exchange program with both the Parsons School for Design in New York and Central Saint Martins in London. Classes at Bunka are taught entirely in Japanese, so it's recommended to have at least a high-school level understanding of the language.
Bunka Fukusou Gakuin
3-22-1 Yoyogi Shibuyaku
Japan 151-8522
+81-33-299-2057
bunka-fc.ac.jp (Japanese)
Mode Gakuen
With satellite campuses in several major metropolitan areas in Japan (and one in France), Mode Gakuen is known for its extensive internship system that allows students to gain practical knowledge of the industry. Internships are not as popular in Japan as they are in other countries, so most other schools in the country don't offer this kind of opportunity. Well-known designers, such as Kansai Yamamaoto and Paul Smith, come to give lectures several times each year. Mode Gakuen is also unique in the "Employment Guarantee System," which allows students to continue studying at the school (without paying fees) until they secure a job. Foreign students are accepted and welcome to apply but must demonstrate a thorough understanding of Japanese.
Mode Gakuen
1-6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku
Japan 160-0023
+81-33-344-6000
mode.ac.jp (Japanese)
Tokyo Fukushoku Senmon Gakko
The Tokyo Fukushoku Senmon Gakko is split into two main programs: a fashion design degree and a fashion business degree for students who want to become a buyer or consultant. The fashion design program is a type of "liberal arts" degree in that it ensures the student is given a complete overview of the fashion development process, from creation to the moment a buyer purchases an outfit. Students' creations are sold in shops in areas like Harajuku, a city famous for expressive--and experimental--fashion. The school emphasizes individuality, encouraging students to develop an independent and unique sense of style. Prospective students are invited to attend classes for one day free of charge, to get an idea of how the school works. You must possess enough knowledge of Japanese to read and write.
Tokyo Fukushoku Senmon Gakko
1-19-7 Sugamo Toshimaku
Japan 170-0002
+81-33-946-7321
tfac.ac.jp (Japanese)
Tags: Mode Gakuen, Bunka Fukusou, Bunka Fukusou Gakuin, fashion design, Fukushoku Senmon