ABOUT
I’m Yamazaki, a stylist based in Tokyo.
For me, styling is more than just combining clothes — it is a form of art, a single piece worthy of being exhibited. Every creation holds an answer, yet I believe the essence lies in allowing the viewer to first feel something instinctively, and then uncover its meaning over time.
Without going through an assistantship, I began working independently and officially started my career as a stylist this year. Currently, I work on brand commissions and styling for vintage stores, while continuing to create personal works to refine my own expression.
I also occasionally assist Peter Gunn Sho, gaining new perspectives and inspiration from each project I take part in.
With the belief that every assignment should stand as a complete work of art, I strive to approach each project with depth and sincerity, and aim to further expand the scope of my creative practice.
INTRODUCING YAMAZAKI RAIMU PAST WORK
“Elegant playfulness”
There is always sophisticated beauty around us. Beautiful clothes and hairstyles are elements that brighten up our daily lives, but adding a playful spirit to them opens up an even more fascinating world. The fashion I aim for is not just elegant, but also values "elegant playfulness" that incorporates extraordinary elements.
For example, a gorgeous top may appear perfectly arranged, but by slightly crumpling the sleeves or layering a swimsuit, you can give an unexpected surprise. This provides a new perspective to the viewer and allows the wearer to express themselves freely.
At first glance, my work may look like ordinary fashion, but if you look closely, you will notice that there is a calculated balance in the styling. Adding a little playfulness to our everyday clothes will make us more free and creative.
I would like to spread this "elegant playfulness" from Japan to overseas and propose new ways of enjoying fashion to many people. I will pursue innovative and attractive styles to turn the "everyday" that is close to us into something more special and interesting.
“Nakedness as a symbol of peace”
Through the theme of "peace = nakedness," my work aims to free us from material things and focus on essential human connections and emotions. This expression means that while clothing is a symbol of social status and identity, being naked shows true equality and vulnerability. I believe that it is this state of vulnerability that creates true understanding and empathy.
Humans have the desire to support others. I believe that spreading this emotion will lead to cooperation and empathy, not conflict or war. Strengthening the emotional connection between humans will pave the way to avoid war and conflict.
This work also contains hope for the future. The attitude of having hope and believing in positive change has the power to spread to viewers and influence society. The reality of fighting for food, land, and honor is often rooted in essential human desires and fears, but it is necessary to overcome this with empathy and understanding.
My work is not just a work of art, but an important expression with a social message. I hope that through this work, I can provide many people with an opportunity to think and call them to action.
"Young monk in the forest"
A silent silhouette emerges between the rocks and trees. He does not speak, but his gaze, posture, and clothing tell a story.
His structured, sober black jacket contrasts with the diffuse light of the forest. His blue lips, almost surreal, make a gesture of break, or perhaps of waiting.
Here, fashion does not seek to seduce but to root itself—in the earth, the stone, the silence. It is a portrait of fragile balance, where the human becomes almost an apparition.
"Resentment"
Inside my heart, there are swirling, vague emotions that I cannot put into words. The shadows of my past works are always following me, and sometimes I lose hope for the future. Sometimes I am overcome with such despair that I want to die, and I don't know what to do.
In those times, I feel a growing desire to never let anyone around me end up like this.
I hope to express these complex emotions in this work. Using black as the base color, I depict the conflict within me and the love I feel for those around me intersecting. I believe that if I can find even a little light in these vague emotions, I myself will be saved.
Personal project created in collaboration with designer TAKERU MORI, featuring his latest pieces.
Styling by RAIMU YAMAZAKI.
