ESMOD Tokyo

Summary

Esmod Tokyo, a prominent fashion school in Japan, is recognised for its comprehensive programs and its influence on the fashion industry. As the Japanese branch of École supérieure des arts et techniques de la mode (Esmod), Esmod Tokyo offers students the opportunity to istudy fashion design, pattern making, and garment production. Established in 1999, the institution quickly earned a reputation for combining European fashion techniques with Japanese creativity and precision.

The fashion school’s curriculum is designed to cultivate both technical skills and artistic expression. Students are trained in a variety of areas, including fashion illustration, textile design, and fashion marketing, with a focus on fostering individual creativity. Esmod Tokyo emphasizes hands-on learning, giving students the chance to work on real-world projects and gain practical experience in the fashion industry. Additionally, Esmod Tokyo plays a key role in shaping the future of fashion design in Japan.

History

ESMOD Tokyo, founded in 1984, is part of the global ESMOD network, which has been a key institution in fashion education since its inception in Paris in 1841. The Tokyo campus was established to bring the expertise and tradition of French fashion to Japan, combining it with the innovative and creative spirit of the Japanese fashion industry. The school was founded by Satoru Nino, who envisioned creating a hub for aspiring fashion designers in Japan.

Located in the dynamic capital that never sleeps, ESMOD Tokyo draws on the energy of the Shibuya fashion neighbourhood to establish a unique style, at the crossroads between Kawaï and structural research. Its students have a strong sense of look and detail, eagerly drawing inspiration from the architecture around them and the new art scene. the curriculum, modeled after the ESMOD Paris program, offers a balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on training. Students are introduced to pattern making, fashion design, textile science, and business management. The courses are designed to equip students with the skills needed to navigate the competitive fashion industry while fostering creativity and innovation.

ESMOD Tokyo

Over the years, ESMOD Tokyo has introduced specialized courses, including a Bachelor’s degree program, which allows students to gain a more in-depth understanding of fashion design, marketing, and international fashion trends. In addition to the academic programs, ESMOD Tokyo has established partnerships with top fashion brands, creating opportunities for students to engage with the industry through internships, projects, and collaborations.

A significant milestone in the school’s history came in the early 2000s when ESMOD Tokyo started organizing fashion shows that showcased the work of its students. These events became a platform for emerging designers to present their creations to a broader audience, including industry professionals, potential employers, and fashion enthusiasts. ESMOD Tokyo also introduced programs on sustainability and digital design.

Notable Alumni: Esmod Japon has produced successful designers who contribute to global fashion. Among its alumni is Yuima Nakazato, known for integrating technology in couture. Another notable graduate is Limi Feu, the daughter of Yohji Yamamoto, who has established her own fashion brand with a distinctive voice. “I was particularly interested in the operational strategy and digital marketing courses. During the course of my studies, we used concrete examples and case studies to develop our analytical skills and to be able to create viable business plans,” says graduate Aydha Mehnaz, Senior Communications Coordinator, Mugler.

Courses

ESMOD Tokyo, established in 1984 as the first ESMOD campus outside France, offers a diverse array of fashion courses designed to equip students with both creative and technical expertise. The curriculum integrates Parisian sensibilities with Japanese precision, ensuring graduates are prepared for the global fashion industry.

Design & Creation: This foundational three-year program immerses students in both design and pattern-making, emphasizing hands-on experience in sewing and garment construction. The first year focuses on developing a personal design philosophy, color theory, and basic garment creation. Subsequent years delve into advanced techniques, including jacket construction and brand development, culminating in a comprehensive graduation collection.

English course: Tailored for international students or those aiming for global careers, this course mirrors the Design & Creation curriculum but is conducted primarily in English during the first two years. The third year transitions to Japanese, with English and French options available depending on the instructor. This program fosters a multicultural environment, preparing students for international fashion markets.

CNAM Bachelor Course: In collaboration with the French institution CNAM, this unique one-year program is the only one in Japan offering an International Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Innovation. The course covers subjects like innovation processes, marketing, and dissertation production, with lectures conducted in French and English, accompanied by Japanese interpretation. Admission requires prior credits in areas such as fashion marketing and production management.

Intensive Course: Designed for individuals with foundational fashion knowledge, this accelerated two-year program condenses the three-year Design & Creation curriculum into an intensive format. Students engage in advanced design and pattern-making techniques, preparing them for immediate professional roles in the fashion industry.

Evening Course: Catering to professionals and university students, the Evening Course offers a comprehensive fashion education through two 2-hour classes held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. This flexible schedule allows individuals to pursue fashion studies alongside their existing commitments, with a curriculum encompassing design, pattern-making, and sewing.

Each of these programs at ESMOD Tokyo is designed to provide students with a robust education in fashion, combining creativity with technical skills to prepare them for successful careers in the industry.

Job Integration Rate

ESMOD Tokyo boasts a remarkable employment integration rate, with approximately 98% of its graduates securing positions in the fashion industry. This impressive statistic underscores the institution’s effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers in fashion design, pattern making, and related fields. The school’s comprehensive curriculum, which combines technical proficiency with creative innovation, equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the fashion industry. Moreover, ESMOD Tokyo’s strong ties with industry professionals and companies facilitate valuable internship opportunities.

The alumni network of ESMOD Tokyo is a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering success. Notable alumni include Harunobu Murata, who, after winning the Grand Prize at the Kobe Fashion Contest during his time at ESMOD Tokyo, went on to study at Istituto Marangoni in Milan. His career includes design roles at John Richmond and Jil Sander, and he launched his own fashion brand in 2018. Another distinguished alumnus, Yasuko Furuta, transferred from ESMOD Tokyo to ESMOD Paris and founded the brand TOGA, which has participated in Paris Fashion Week since 2006. These success stories highlight the global recognition and opportunities available to ESMOD Tokyo graduates.

References

1. Made to measure? : tailoring and the ‘normal’ body in nineteenth-century France. New York: Routledge
2.  Unveiling fashion: business, culture, and identity in the most glamorous industry. Basingstoke: Houndmills
3. Résumé descriptif de la certification: Styliste designer mode (in French). Répertoire National des Certifications
4. “ESMOD obtient la reconnaissance du Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur”. www.studyrama.com (in French). 
5. “École supérieure des arts et techniques de la mode (Esmod)”. enseignementsup-recherche.gouv.fr (in French).