Kenzo
Kenzo
Kenzo has been infusing positive energy and contagious freedom for half a century by boldly proclaiming a polychrome, daring and borderless fashion that celebrates nature and cultural diversity
Creation date: 1970
CEO: Sylvain Blanc
Head office: 18 rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris
Website: www.kenzo.com
Identity
Kenzo has been infusing positive energy and contagious freedom for half a century by boldly proclaiming a polychrome, daring and borderless fashion that celebrates nature and cultural diversity. Founded in Paris in 1970 by Kenzo Takada, who opened his first boutique in Galerie Vivienne in Paris, the House continues to cultivate and reinterpret codes that make it unique with dynamic modernity: a mix of prints and harmony of refined colors and an exuberant and sophisticated creativity imbued with optimism and impertinence.
In September 2021 Kenzo embarked on a new chapter in its history with the naming of Nigo as the House’s new Artistic Director.
Architecture
The history of 18 rue Vivienne, Kenzo’s current head office, is filled with sudden developments and famous owners. This now legendary address is located a short distance from the Galerie Vivienne that was home to the House’s first Parisian boutique in 1970. In 1640, Jacques Coquet, the treasurer of France and controller-general of finances for Paris, asked the architect Pierre Le Muet to build him a mansion with two wings, one looking out onto the street and the other between a courtyard and a garden.
Through exchanges, sales, division and inheritance, it passed from owner to owner, including the Marquis de Mallebois, Master of Requests and Colbert’s nephew, the Marquis de Fontenay-Trésigny, war minister under Louis XV, before becoming, in a fitting twist of fate, a House selling silk and wool. Shaped by time, 18 rue Vivienne today houses most of the Kenzo departments, including the studio, the workshop, the support functions and product development, and today powerfully embodies the House’s spirit.
Key figures
- 104 stores around the world
- 800 employees around the world
- 28 different nationalities
Kenzo on social media
- KENZO Rue Vivienne workwear jacket is available now on KENZO.COM pic.twitter.com/cybio2k6AJ
- KENZO Rue Vivienne workwear jacket is available now on KENZO.COM pic.twitter.com/X7iYoWbPrv
- KENZO Rue Vivienne denim workwear jacket is available now on KENZO.COM pic.twitter.com/h96NPGNztJ