Today we’d like to introduce you to Tina Zulu.
Hi Tina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My introduction to Japanese culture began with a childhood obsession with Hello Kitty, which I’ve been collecting since the mid-’70s. Through Sanrio and its characters, I was introduced to Japanese design, lifestyle, and the kimono, often worn by Hello Kitty herself.
My background in fashion styling, along with my appreciation for handmade garments, textiles, and couture, helped shape my eye—especially during my many years working in retail at Neiman Marcus. It’s a big part of why I’m now so drawn to kimonos.
To me, the kimono is a universal and timeless design: magical, wearable art that should be enjoyed and celebrated. By working with vintage kimonos and styling them in a modern way, my goal is to breathe new life into these beautiful garments so they can be worn by a new generation.
On a broader level, I’m proud that this work is eco-friendly and rooted in circular fashion. Reimagining the kimono helps keep these garments out of landfills, which in turn supports more sustainable practices and helps slow the damaging effects of climate change.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Kimono Zulu, a creative exploration led by Tina Zulu, is a fashion brand that draws upon the rich history of traditional Japanese attire, mainly the kimono, and its influence on other cultures throughout Asia and the West.
Through artist collaborations, Tina Zulu inspires and initiates the visual conversation for artists to incorporate their own design sensibilities into the vision for the brand, bringing new life to vintage kimonos in a thoughtful, beautiful and often playful way. The reimagined kimonos are embellished and modernized to be enjoyed as unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable art.
Collaborators to date include: Ally Ham, Angela Fabbri, Ann Brooks, Anthony Pabillano, Beast Syndicate, Christy Karll, Dandee Warhol, Daniel “Cutzu” Renfrow, Dawn Bell, the late David Adickes, Elijah Coccetti, Emilie Duval, Falon Felscher and Judy Masliyah of My Flaming Heart, GONZO247, Jennifer Gabiola of Dawning Soul, Jonathan Paul Jackson, Katsola, Magpies and Peacocks, Mina Gaber, Rene Cruz, Royal Sumikat, Sebastien “Mr. D 1987” Boileau, Selven O’Keef Jarmon, Shelbi Nicole, Shop 1988, Soi-K, and Uyen-My Pham.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Everything counts in large amounts. All of the work I put in, from focusing on a small detail to putting in a lot of effort towards something that didn’t pan out, eventually pays off in the end. Never skip or take shortcuts. Do the right thing and always put your best foot forward. It will be rewarded.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimonozulu.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimonozulu
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimonozulufanpage
