It is a pleasure having stylist and creative director, KYO Jino, to discuss the do’s and don’ts of fashion. The Parisian born fashionista is bringin' sexy back with his iconic blinged-out 90s hip-hop vibes. KYO Jino is vastly establishing himself in the style scene and quickly becoming a stylist to the stars. Bringing a breath of fresh air to the fashion sphere, KYO’s is reinventing Parisian style in the world’s leading Fashion Capital.
French rapper, DAVINHOR, styled by KYO Jino
Born in the Fashion Capital of the world, how does Paris inspire your style and creative mind?
Paris has a very important influence in the world of fashion, but I consider my style to be the antipode of Paris. I feel closer to the American and London universe, specifically 90 / 00s fashion.
Describe your style in three words?
If I were to describe my style in 3 words, it would be colourful, sexy and daring.
Where do you find inspiration for your styling? Who are your style icons?
I draw fashion inspiration from my family and childhood. Seeing my big sisters getting ready and being inspired by American stars such as; Aaliyah, TLC, Destiny’s Child etc ...
I have multiple fashion icons, but Lil Kim, TLC, Aaliyah, Rihanna to name a few.
Each decade embraces its own fashion and style, what is your favourite fashion era?
My favourite era in fashion is the late 90s and early 00s, but with a mix of Asian and African influence.
If you could only wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would you choose and why?
If I had to wear a designer for life, it would be LaQuan Smith. I love his mixture of elegance and extravagance! I would see myself wearing his designs at all ages.
When did you first fall in love with fashion? What is your first fashion memory?
I first fell in love with fashion watching American R&B / rap music videos on MTV. One particular memory I have is constantly counting how many outfits the artist wore, looking at every detail etc. I wanted to be a stylist because I always loved fashion and sublime people in general, starting my styling career 3 years ago.
You are renowned for styling iconic looks and bringing a new flavour to fashion. Most notably a style embracing the blinged out fashion of the hip hop’s 90s heyday. What do you love about the 90s aesthetic?
I renew myself by watching clips from the 80s through to today. I get inspired from everything! What I like about the 90 / 00s aesthetic is the crazy spirit of colours, extravagant hairstyle and the freedom.
What are your favourite looks you’ve styled to date or favourite projects you have worked on?
My favourite shoot/ project that I am most proud of is with French rapper, Shay. She gave me full control and I was able to fully express myself by doing all of the artistic direction, photos and styling.
Are there any up-and-coming designers you have been working with that we should all be aware of?
Yes! There is Weird Brain, Gilles Asquin, Michelle TSM, and Tantine de Paris.
I work with all of these designers regularly and they are very promising!
If you could dress/style anyone, who would you choose?
I would love to dress Rihanna because to me, she is one of the models of my generation. Her beauty, her self-confidence and her effervescence just fascinates me.
Do you have a styling trick to elevate a design or finish a look?
I would say the use of pins. Pin if necessary to adjust the fit and enhance the body.
Do you have a particular photographer/model you love to work with? Why?
Yes, I love working with my two muses Aicha Faye & Elinda San. She gives me the freedom to express myself through fashion and we always have a good time developing iconic looks.
What are your hopes and dreams as a stylist and creative director?
My goal as a stylist and creative director is to dress the biggest stars, raising them to a whole new fashion level. I want my looks to be recognised worldwide as a KYO Jino signature and develop the artistic direction for a variety of artists’.
French rapper, Shay, styled by KYO Jino
Model, Elinda San, styled by KYO Jino
Influencer, Salome Je T’aime, styled by KYO Jino