While Kemio might look like your average high-fashion New Yorker, you might be surprised to know he has already managed to achieve superstar status in his native country Japan. He first achieved social media stardom on Vine while in high school, but fast forward and today, the social media phenom commands an audience of millions across all platforms.

The digital talent has now his eyes set on the U.S., where he has lived since 2016. Since moving, he has gained a fast following and collaborated with a number of high-profile brands, sitting front-row on the runway at Marc Jacobs and Dior, for example. He even virtually attended our CFDA Awards red carpet last year.

Kemio is now embarking on his biggest project yet – taking on a role as the host of the new VFILES Shopping Network show, where he will showcase up-and-coming talent across creative fields of art, music, and fashion.

We caught up exclusively with Kemio to hear more about how he is making waves in fashion, and his latest project.

Tell us about your relationship with fashion – was this an industry you always wanted to work in? 

Yes! Fashion has always been the biggest thing in my life since I was very young. I still remember back in the day, when I was around 10, I asked my grandmother if I could go shopping with her and pick my own clothes. Since then my fashion style started exploding. I never thought I’d be where I am now, to be honest. It’s actually pretty crazy to me because when I started doing what I do now. So many people were not taking me seriously or even there were people who told me that I will never be going to make it because I’m just a Viner. I’m so thankful and grateful.

You’ve worked with some incredible brands. What have been some of your career highlights so far?

I walked in the GCDS SS/20 runway show in Milan. I have always been a big fan of GCDS and also that was the very first time I walked in a runway show. It was a really big achievement. Also, I’ve got nominated for GQ (Japan) MEN OF THE YEAR which was the same year as GCDS’s runway show. It was insane experience.

How would you describe your personal style?

I would describe my style as Kemio! I don’t know how to answer this question – haha – because it really depends on the day or my mood. I literally wear anything I want so I don’t think there is a word that could describe my style especially, but I always try to express my mood or personality through outfits.

Who are some of your style muses? Where do you find inspiration? 

Definitely Lady Gaga! If I didn’t grow up with her and her music I don’t think I would be who I am today. I find inspiration from my life especially living in New York inspired me so much too!

What are some of your favorite brands or trends you’re loving right now? 

As we all know that HOT GIRL SUMMER is coming up and I want to bring back Harajuku 2000s style this summer so I have been shopping a lot of Hysteric Glamour vintage pieces and chunky shoes. I also want to wear skirts more this summer!

Congratulations on your new role as host of the VFILES Shopping Network. What drew you to this project and what can viewers expect?

Thank you, Nicky! I’m so excited about this opportunity because I have never done anything like this before in my career in the U.S. so I think this is going to be great but at the same, I’m still studying English so I’m a little bit nervous, to be honest, but I’m hoping that this is going to lead to step outside of my comfort zone and get more confident with speaking English.

Photographer: Jeiroh

Stylist: Kat & Cara