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ALUMNI
Seiko Yukiura
sneeuwAfter graduating from the Department of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering at the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Engineering, joined TOTO Ltd. In 2005, she left TOTO Ltd. to enroll at ESMOD Tokyo. Upon graduating in 2009, she established the brand “sneeuw.”
Why I Chose ESMOD
Since childhood, I had dreamed of working in fashion design. However, influenced by my parents’ wishes, I pursued environmental studies at university. After graduating, I wanted to be involved in manufacturing, even if it wasn’t directly related to design, and decided to work for a company that creates everyday products. I joined TOTO Ltd., working in the department responsible for designing the Washlet, and stayed for four years. While my time at TOTO was stimulating and fulfilling, I couldn’t let go of my childhood dream of becoming a fashion designer. At 26, I decided to leave the company.
Encouraged by a friend, I became interested in ESMOD. During my visit, I was impressed by the students, faculty, and the atmosphere of the classes, which conveyed a sense of sincerity. I also discovered that many students were close to my age, having had university or professional experience, which helped me quickly to decide to enroll.
Post-Graduation Journey
Studying at ESMOD was exactly as I had imagined during my initial visit. The environment was excellent, and I constantly learned from the teachers and my classmates, making it an enjoyable experience. At the same time, the workload was challenging, with assignments filling my days. However, I was pursuing something I had long desired to study, and I felt fortunate to work so hard on something I loved.
ESMOD provided a broad education, but the most significant aspect was being constantly asked to refine my creative concepts. I had ample time to reflect and gained valuable insights through feedback from teachers and peers. These lessons and discoveries continue to influence my work today.
Perspective on Today’s Fashion World
After working as an assistant at YEAH RIGHT!!, I launched my brand, sneeuw, in 2009. At my second exhibition, a buyer from a select shop I admired placed an order—a dream come true. This opportunity led to my brand being featured in other shops as well.
One of the greatest treasures from ESMOD is the friendships I made. The success of my classmates continues to inspire me. Fashion is constantly evolving, but I believe in staying true to your passion. If fashion is where you want to dedicate yourself, working hard in this field will always provide valuable experiences, even if you eventually pursue something else.
A Message to Aspiring Fashion Designers
What I learned at ESMOD, as well as the many friendships I formed there, are invaluable treasures to me. I continue to be inspired by the achievements of my classmates. If you have a clear vision of what you want to do, and if that vision lies in fashion, focus on it wholeheartedly. The experience you gain will undoubtedly be useful, even if you later find another passion. My advice is to find a place where you can fully commit yourself and make the most of it.