Rediscovering the Allure of Fashion: The Trendy Illustrator Hiromi Matsuo Modernizes Meiji, Taisho, & Early Showa-Era Clothing Styles

With a unique approach and modern interpretations of fashion and lifestyle culture from the Meiji era to the early Showa period, illustrator Hiromi Matsuo creates alluring works that captivate many. This year, alongside publishing 『マツオヒロミ作品集 万華鏡の庭』 (Genkosha Co., Ltd.), she also won the grand prize in the 'The 52nd Japan Cartoonists Association Award' for her work 『マガジンロンド』 (Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha, Ltd.) published in 2022, wherein the selection committee highly commended her for "illustrating the fragrant world of 'female culture' through illustrated stories, fashion history, and mesmerizing characters transcending time and space." In this interview, we delve into Hiromi Matsuo's journey to becoming an illustrator, her approach to illustrating fashion, and her future plans.

The 'Kimono' as a Motif

Please tell us about your path to becoming an illustrator.

I've been drawing illustrations and comics self-taught since my student days. A client who saw my work posted online contacted me, which led to my first step towards becoming an illustrator. While working for clients, I made self-published illustration collections and showcased them at comic markets and other events. Through such independent projects, my style gradually evolved into what it is today.