Kozaburo Akasaka comes with an impressive resume. Before launching his Kozaburo label, the designer earned a BFA degree of Central Saint Martins, an MA from Parsons School of Design, and spent years designing menswear Thom Browne. It wasn’t until he was ready to branch out on his own that the designer started his own menswear label.

Born in Japan, the designer incorporates his cultural heritage into the sharp designs in his collection. Traditional Japanese techniques often contrast Americana silhouettes like denim trucker jackets, which beautifully blend the East and West into a sharp menswear collection.

We spoke to the New York-based designer to learn more about his label.

What is your earliest fashion memory?

Wearing various colors of Ralph Lauren polo shirts on different days of the week that parents gave me as a kid. That is the earliest I remember.

 What was your reaction to finding out you were a finalist?

I feel honored and excited to be selected as one of the young designers in America for this competition. I see a great opportunity for the brand and telling my story. Further, I hope to contribute to the legacy of the industry forward.

 How would you describe your label?

A new landscape of spirit and style of our generation emerges.

What is a specific area of focus you are looking for help with?

Visibility of my ideas, for people to understand us and potential business collaborations.

 Is there a goal or milestone you would like to accomplish with your brand in the future?

Creating landscapes: a borderless space for creative spirituality and style.

The 2023 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists will be announced at the 2023 Vogue Forces of Fashion on October 19th.