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Tadashi Shoji
A career in fashion design by fate;
a fashion house by talent and determination
 A true artist at heart, Tadashi has always followed his passion. And through a remarkable series of opportunities that came his way, he used this passion — and his innate talent — to build a fashion design house and a devoted following. His rise to fame as a designer of women's clothing holds a lesson for everyone who has a dream to pursue.
Tadashi Shoji was born and raised in Sandai, Japan. At an early age, he showed a talent for painting and drawing. However, as his talent flourished, he began to feel restricted by the conservative environment of his traditional hometown. This led him to Tokyo, where he pursued studies in fine art, especially the emerging field of contemporary art. During his studies, Tadashi was recommended for an apprenticeship with the country's leading contemporary artist, Jiro Takamatsu — credited with leading the way for contemporary art in Japan. While working with Takamatsu, Tadashi had ambitions of living and working in the midst of the contemporary art scene of New York.
Then a twist of fate landed him in Los Angeles for a visit. Tadashi was inspired by the Southern California lifestyle and decided to make L.A. his home. But he was uncertain about continuing in fine art. So, encouraged by a friend who suggested he continue his education with more of a career focus, he made his way to Los Angeles Trade Technical College to view their curriculum. Fashion design immediately caught his interest. Creating original, upscale clothing for women would both be "practical" and allow him to pursue his artistic dreams.
During his studies, Tadashi was presented with the opportunity to work with famed costume designer Bill Whitton. In the flamboyant music scene of the seventies, every major recording star demanded Whitton as their costumer, and Tadashi soon found himself in the middle of an intense industry, working with such stars as Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Neil Diamond, The Jacksons, and Earth Wind and Fire. "It was a world apart from the contemporary art scene of Tokyo," Tadashi later joked. "I had no idea who some of these performers were."
After graduation, Tadashi began work in an entry level-position for a clothing manufacturer and started to make his way up. After several years in the industry, he noticed a void in the women's clothing market — special-occasion dresses at affordable prices. It was time to go out on his own. He met with immediate success with his collection of party dresses, cocktail dresses, evening wear, and designer evening gowns. In 1982, his collection was picked up by Bergdorf Goodman. Saks Fifth Avenue soon followed.
Today, the Tadashi label of distinctive clothing for women continues to be carried at upscale retailers, and his chic clothes collections are worn on the backs of well-dressed women worldwide. |
 
 
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