The world first began to take notice of Japanese fashion in the 1980s after Issey Miyake and Kenzo Takada began presenting their collections in Paris. Their work signaled a departure from an industry dominated by Western norms, and their unusual aesthetic shocked fashion critics.
This exhibition explores the "essence" of Japanese fashion — from the deconstructed innovations of the '80s to today's quirkier styles. Originally shown at the Barbican Art Gallery (London) in 2010, then the Haus der Kunst (Munich) in 2011, the show includes a new section for Tokyo, featuring some of Japan's young up-and-coming designers: July 28-Oct. 8.
Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo; (03) 5245-4111; 4-1-1, Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo; Kiyosumi Shirakawa Station, Toei Oedo Line. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ¥1,000. Closed Mon. www.mot-art-museum.jp/eng/2012/fashion/index.html.