Fashion Model TAO: An Interview (Part 1)

From the Paris Runways

TAO Interview: Part 1

TAO, a model standing 177 cm tall, was born in 1985 in Chiba Prefecture. She began her modeling career at age 14 and experienced her first Paris Fashion Week in March 2006. For the Spring/Summer 2008 Paris collections, she walked the runway for the major house of Yves Saint Laurent as the only Asian model.

By Makoto Kajii (This Magazine)

I might have faltered if my Japanese agency had arranged everything for me.

Many models aspire to walk the runways of Paris and Milan. Weren't you afraid of going overseas, TAO?

I studied in the UK for a year during my second year of high school, so my English is fine. That was a huge advantage.

Your first trip to Paris was in February 2006. Did you go alone?

Yes. Most Japanese models start with an established agency in the local market. But I created my own list of agents, called them, and arranged interviews myself. I didn't know the ranking of the local agencies, and I'd heard rumors that some wouldn't hire Asian models if they already had one. So, before even getting to Paris Fashion Week, I was worried about whether I could secure an agent at all. However, I was prepared to do it myself. If my Japanese agency had arranged everything, I might have become too dependent and failed.

06-07 AW Veronique branquinho

Did you find an agency easily?

Initially, I planned to visit many agencies and had three appointments on the first day. I went to the top-tier ones, expecting rejections, and was shocked when they turned me down. After just two rejections, I felt discouraged. Then, at the third agency, they liked me. I thought, 'They're the only ones who will take me,' and I ended up working with them for the March 2006 Paris collections. Later, ELITE took an interest in me, and I moved there. Timing plays a big role in these things.

07 SS Emanuell ungaro

How many shows did you walk in that March (the Autumn/Winter 2006 collections)?

I walked in about eight major houses. Mostly new designers or smaller houses. In the following two seasons, I started appearing in more well-known houses, like Ungaro. Then I walked for Salvatore Ferragamo in Milan, and in my fourth season (last autumn), I appeared for Yves Saint Laurent.

Your English skills must be a significant asset, TAO.

Communication is absolutely essential for making an impression. Not being able to speak the language makes things very difficult. I often hear that even for Japanese models who are beautiful, people say, 'She was lovely, but she couldn't speak.'

TAO's Guide to the World's Top 5 Fashion Weeks

What is it like walking the runway?

I rarely get nervous, even on large stages. I've experienced Saint Laurent at the Grand Palais in Paris, and I want to be in even bigger shows watched by the world. The sense of tension and motivation is different. More than the moment I walk the runway, it's the applause after it ends, or the designer's words backstage, that really move me. I love creating something together with everyone.

07-08 AW Kenzo

07-08 AW marc by marc jacobs

Let's hear your impressions of Paris Fashion Week.

I think Paris has the most vibrant fashion week atmosphere in the world. It feels like participating in a major event.

And Milan?

Milan's fashion can be a bit flashy, to put it mildly. The type of model they look for is quite specific, which can be challenging, but there are many major houses, so it's rewarding.

What about New York?

Hmm, overall, I found it quite casual. Since I had already experienced Paris and Milan, I noticed the street-style fashion and thought, 'Wait, is this a fashion week?' While the top houses might be different, the impression I got was that it was too casual.

And London?

It's smaller scale compared to Paris and Milan, but it was interesting, with its usual share of avant-garde fashion.

What about Tokyo?

I like Tokyo's fashion. It's unique and you don't see it in other cities. When people overseas think of 'Tokyo fashion,' they often focus on styles like 'gyaru' or Harajuku. I believe Tokyo's distinct 'color' could be showcased more strongly to the world. I also wish the fashion week here would generate more excitement, like those overseas.

What stood out to you during the Spring/Summer 2008 collections?

Although I only wore one piece, Martin Margiela was interesting. During the Marithe Francois Girbaud and Castelbajac shows, they asked us to 'play in front of the camera (facing forward).' I was hesitant at first, but it turned out to be surprisingly fun. I liked both the clothes and the direction at Margiela.