Model: Yeni Ysabelle Tan
Make-up: Charlene Pahayahay
Shot on location at Panguil Bay in Misamis Occidental Contact Yoko Sato Li at 0927 550 5533
I get inspiration from the places I have traveled to and from random things I see—like from cloud formations, from shadows,” begins Yoko Sato Li, a young fashion designer, who is as bold as her dreams to reshape fashion as we know it.
In less than two years after studying at Fashion Institute of Design and Arts in Cebu, she will finally inaugurate an eponymous label at her new atelier on Gen. Maxilom Avenue this September.
But August is her triumphant entry, merging culture and fantasy … on and off the global influences in her hands.
Who are you in fashion?
I am actually an eclectic person.
I know how to mix and match different styles and create a whole new look.
It is important to have an eye for what you like and what suits you or your client.
I tend to like classic style and go for a minimal look. But I also love fashion and new trends.
I don’t really limit myself.
I just want to make sure that my clothes look feminine but edgy, sexy but classy, simple but unique, and also clean and polished.
Why is the Japanese art so evident in your work?
The Japanese are often recognized for their traditional art and its capability of transforming simplicity into creative designs.
To stand out without making a loud statement is intrinsically Japanese. Japan is known for its minimalistic principle.
Less is more. As a designer, I can identify myself with the Japanese aesthetic because I tend to focus on clean lines, simple color palette and contrasting silhouettes.
Modern minimalist style for me is using pieces and materials that are strong enough to stand alone unobscured by fussy extras and embellishments.
I want my designs to appear simple overall but with subtle details such as texture that balances simplicity with complexity.
What are the Japanese techniques you have applied and would want to apply soon?
I used traditional Japanese clothing as a foundation for my debut collection.
I drew inspiration from Kimonos, Geisha, Samurai, Shoguns and then giving it a twist of Tokyo’s modern street fashion, which is known for their edgy and eccentric taste.
I included techniques such as Kirigami (design with the use of cutting), origami (design with the use of paper folding), Saori (handweaving that emphasizes and prioritizes creativity and free expression, no rules, no fear, non-technique).
The technique I would like to apply soon is Shingo Sato (transformational reconstructive way of pattern making).
Has motherhood changed your design perspective?
It didn’t change much my design perspective.
I just tend to put more importance on the wearer’s comfort, like it should be something that is easy to wear.