Evolution of a Stylist: an interview with Toyo Tsuchiya
September 12th, 2009 | Published in Fashion Lovers
Words by Scott McKeown. Above Photos by (left to right) Zoe Bridgman, David Macgillivray, Brenndan Laird.
Toyo Tsuchiya seems to be the “it” stylist of the moment; whether creating the look and tone for one of Obakki’s ad campaigns or as fashion editor of ION Magazine, Tsuchiya’s work would suggest that she has quickly become one of the industry’s elite and most sought after fashion mavens. Now represented by industry renowned agency, Judy Inc, Tsuchiya has seen her career flourish–and being an in-demand stylist means working around the clock. To catch this busy stylist meant a quick phone interview during a break in her loaded schedule in Toronto, where she now resides.
Fresh out of high school, Tsuchiya spent one year at Kwantlen University. However, she found that the Fashion & Technology program she had enrolled in was not the right fit. Tsuchiya then began working at a local retailer as a fashion merchandiser. “I learned a ton there: dressing mannequins, putting looks together, window merchandising; it was all a lot of fun.” The on-job skills Tsuchiya learnt while working in retail evidently began to help develop her talent in creating looks and understanding the business of fashion.
While still working her day job, Tsuchiya returned to school, this time enrolling at Vancouver Community College. It is there where Tsuchiya’s ability for fashion flourished and upon graduation she received honours along with a fully paid tuition scholarship. Finding work outside of post secondary luckily was not a challenge for Tsuchiya because while still completing the design program at VCC, Tsuchiya received an internship at Chulo Pony which quickly led to a full-time job. “[I did things like] designing, pattern making, fitting, sewing samples, selling the line, and going to trade shows.” As a result she became immensely familiarized with the industry, learning not only its creative side but the business side as well.
Upon graduation from VCC Tsuchiya accepted another volunteer position–this time styling a movie being shot in Vancouver. Within four hours on set Tsuchiya was offered a full-time position that would last the three weeks the filming would be in production. “I met a lot of people on that film, and one of the girls that I met (she was doing styling at the time) kind of got me into some of her print work as her assistant stylist.” It was this big break that gave momentum to the idea of Tsuchiya being a fashion stylist. Another industry contact also promoted the idea. “I was friends with the photographer from Chulo Pony who had done the campaigns, and she said, ‘you know you should start styling’.” It was with that encouragement from industry veterans that Tsuchiya was pushed further into the field of styling.
Tsuchiya acknowledges that Vancouver was a good city to begin her styling career though she feels that it was time to move to Toronto where a larger market exists. “[Vancouver] is a great starting place for your career,” says Tsuchiya and adds, “It has given me what I need and now I can go to a different city and be more successful there.” When asked about common misconceptions about working in the fashion industry Tsuchiya is quick to point out the realities of an industry that promotes beauty, glamour, and luxury. “I’ve been [styling] for two and a half years (three in November) and I feel like I have done three to four years of work in a smaller time frame. It’s not glamorous at all,” she puts in, “You have to be a hard worker [to succeed].” Tsuchiya could be seen as a realist–she sees the skill needed to create the beauty and allure that consumers are used to. Simply stated Tsuchiya says, “We’re the ones that put the glamour to it.”
In her fast paced career Tsuchiya looks positively into the future: “I am very happy right now,” Tsuchiya merrily states, “Toronto is only going to help me with my career”. With the passion, talent, and work ethic Tsuchiya possesses it is safe to say that this Vancouver style sensation will only see more growth in Toronto. With already numerous achievements Tsuchiya is able to look at her successes with a humble heart. “I am very happy that I am in the fashion industry, not just trying to be in it.”
