After Love magazine’s editor-in-chief Katie Grand discovered Tomo Koizumi through British designer Giles Deacon on Instagram, he has fast become one of Japan's leading young designers and a breakout star at the Autumn/Winter 2019 shows in New York.
Born in Japan in 1988, Koizumi studied an arts major at the National Chiba University, during which time he launched his namesake brand, and graduated in 2012. While working as a costume designer, Lady Gaga wore one of his designs on a visit to Tokyo in 2016. However, it wasn’t until Grand supported the designer’s New York Fashion Week debut that his work garnered international recognition and acclaim.
Koizumi showcased his Autumn/Winter 2019 collection during New York Fashion Week, orchestrated by Grand. The stylist and Love editor enlisted Guido Palau to do hair, while Pat McGrath created the make-up looks, Tabitha Simmons designed the accompanying Mary Janes, Marc Jacobs provided the venue at his Madison Avenue store and Anita Bitton organised the casting. The 28-strong collection was worn by models and actresses including Emily Ratajkowski, Bella Hadid , Joan Smalls and Gwendoline Christie.
Following his debut, Koizumi’s work has featured in international editions of Vogue, Love, V and WWD. He has also dressed Miley Cyrus and was commissioned by the actress and singer Miriam Yeung for her world tour. In 2019, Thailand-based fashion editor and entrepreneur Nichapat Sop Hap wore one of Koizumi's designs to the Met Gala.
