Tokyo’s next generation of fashion talents is building a future where creativity meets inclusivity. At a recent workshop in Shinjuku, students from leading design schools gathered to refine adaptive clothing concepts as part of the Next Fashion Designer of Tokyo and Sustainable Fashion Design Award competitions. With nearly 2,000 applications for the 2026 edition, the event highlights Japan’s growing influence as a hub for sustainable and inclusive fashion.
Inclusive Design at the Heart of Innovation
The Inclusive Design category challenges participants to create garments suitable for everyone, regardless of ability. Fourteen shortlisted designers worked closely with experts, including individuals with disabilities, to make their creations functional and emotionally engaging. Paralympic ice hockey silver medalist Daisuke Uehara, an advisor since 2022, praised the initiative and said inclusive fashion gives people more freedom of choice. “It used to be that we could only wear T-shirts and jeans,” he explained. “Now we can enjoy suits and kimono too.”
Empowerment Through Design
Uehara emphasized that true inclusivity goes beyond practicality. “What these students are doing will lead to happier lives and new opportunities,” he said. “Fashion can inspire confidence and connection.” Students worked in groups focusing on different needs, from mobility to vision challenges, ensuring every design combined empathy with aesthetics.
Young Creators Redefining Fashion
Fuuya Inoue from Tokyo Mode Gakuen presented Inversa, a reversible outfit designed for people with visual impairments using textured fabrics for orientation. After consulting with advisor Marina Sato, who is partially blind, Inoue said he gained valuable insight into how clothing affects confidence. Yukino Ooishi from ESMOD Tokyo developed adaptable wear for wheelchair users inspired by her paralyzed grandfather. “It’s a new approach, but I feel clearer about my goals after this workshop,” she said.
From Workshop to Runway
The next stage involves mannequin presentations and online voting via Instagram. Finalists will learn how to commercialize their creations before presenting them on the runway in March. Winners will receive one million yen, business mentorship, and exposure at Tokyo events and Paris Fashion Week.
Designing a Kinder Future
Sakura Kato, founder of mogmog engine and mother of a child with muscular dystrophy, said the contest broadens the meaning of fashion. “These designs include people who were once excluded. By starting from inclusion, fashion becomes open to everyone.” Former finalist Kuuya Minagawa from Bunka Fashion College added, “Criticism helps you grow, but connection makes it meaningful. Fashion brings people together.” In Tokyo, the future of fashion is built not only on fabric and form but on understanding and inclusion.
