An insider's guide to your favourite fashion brands
Who started it?
Born in 1942, Rei Kawakubo studied literature at Keio University in Tokyo. After graduating, she worked at a textile company, before becoming a stylist in the 1960s.
In 1969, Kawakubo introduced the Comme des Garcons label (which means 'Like Boys' in French) for women, and officially established the company in 1973; Comme des Garcons Homme was launched five years later.
Kawakubo introduced her first collection in Paris in 1981, and shocked the industry with her loose silhouettes, raw edges and asymmetrical cuts. The predominantly black line featured crumpled pieces that wrapped around the body in shapeless silhouettes, and were folded and buttoned randomly. It was the complete opposite to elegant French fashion of the time.
In subsequent years, Kawakubo continued to challenge dressmaking principles by deconstructing clothes instead of following trends, and creating decidedly 'anti-fashion' looks.