Yohji Yamamoto Loves Women But Thinks Most Male Designers Are Misogynists

It's no exaggeration to say that Yohji Yamamoto is one of the most influential designers of the last four decades, and his avant-garde and anti-fashion approach continues to push boundaries. But this hugely talented designer remains something of an enigma. So we were fascinated by the Wall Street Journal's interview with Yohji this week, especially as the mild-mannered designer dropped a few controversial bombshells.

Perhaps most eyebrow-raising is his apparent suggestion that most male designers are misogynists. "I think I am the only male designer who really likes women," he says, "you disagree? Tell me the name of another."

He also prefers to call himself a "dressmaker", not a fashion designer. "I hate fashion but in fact I have always been fascinated by the relationship between Japanese ritual and Western couture," he adds.

Yohji also has some seemingly contradictory advice when it comes to carving out personal style: "copy what you love and in the end you will be yourself." (Wall Street Journal)