In the vast universe of fashion, where appearances often risk taking over substance, there are figures who choose a different path.
Chemi Akutami is one of them: a visionary, an artist capable of fusing creativity, empathy and social engagement into one universal language. Since 2019, Chemi has been a constant presence at Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks, two stages that have seen his poetics grow season after season.
This season’s sixth Milan fashion show marks a new chapter in a tale that unites East and West, tradition and avant-garde, heart and technique. In 2022 he initiated a unique project: CHEMICOLLE, an international audition designed to offer aspiring models the chance to debut on his runway.
From Tokyo to Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, this format has turned a dream into movement, building bridges between different cultures and giving voice to new Asian talent.
The strength of the team: talent, trust and shared growth
A key part of Akutami’s creative universe is his historical partners: the Japanese hairstyling salons, which accompany him in every fashion show. A rare synergy that results in a chorus of vision, technique, and artistic sensibility.
There is Sayaka, in her fourth fashion show, called “the ace of the team” by her mentor, Ogaki. “Her creativity has exploded. When Sayaka touches a model, you know everything will be perfect.” There’s
“Then, step by step, he found his strength. At the end of the day, he was completely in his element. It was amazing to see him grow so much in such a short time.”
And there is Yui, from the Tida salon, who only six months ago participated in the Paris fashion show as an assistant and has now become principal stylist. “She remained calm, professional, but most of all happy,” says Eida. “That sincere joy was the most precious souvenir of the whole trip.”
Through these experiences, the Japanese salons involved are not only gaining international experience on the world’s biggest runways, but are also strengthening their own identity and helping to redefine Japan’s influence in the global beauty industry.
The artist behind the designer
In addition to fashion, Chemi Akutami is an active and recognized artist in Japan, able to translate his sensibility into three-dimensional works inspired by Japanese culture.
He is known for his “ChemiPore” portraits, vibrant depictions of famous figures, and for his prestigious collaborations, such as the official livery for BMW Japan.
But what really sets it apart is its human and social dimensions.
The ONEART project, which began eleven years ago, supports children with disabilities through collaborative art.
Each work stems from an original drawing made by a child, which is then reinterpreted by professional artists: 60 percent of the proceeds go directly to the families of the young authors.
A concrete gesture that, over time, has generated more than 14 million yen in donations.
In 2023, Akutami launched a new project with a strong symbolic impact: PRIZONART, an initiative involving inmates in the creation of artworks for exhibitions and cultural events.
All proceeds were donated to the victims of the Noto Peninsula earthquake, in a perfect balance of art, responsibility and compassion.
A message that crosses borders
Chemi Akutami’s every gesture, whether on the catwalk or in life, tells of a precise idea of beauty: that which comes frompeople coming together, shared growth and the ability to transform creativity into a universal message.
In his world, fashion is not surface, but depth that moves.
It is art that breathes, communicates and reaches out.
Because, after all,
Chemi Akutami is a designer who goes far beyond fashion.
