Inspired by the lyrics of a Françoise Hardy song, Rei Kawakubo established Comme des Garçons in 1969. With no formal training in fashion, Kawakubo is a true trailblazer, blurring gender norms, as well as the lines between art and fashion. Kawakubo has gained an array of prestigious awards over the years, inspiring numerous designers with her innovations, and currently boasts over 20 distinct lines and many memorable collaborations.