Yumi Katsura, World-renowned Bridal Fashion Designer, Dies at 94 (Update 1)

Bridal fashion designer Yumi Katsura died Friday, it has been learned. She was 94.

At her request, no funeral service will be held. A show in her memory is planned instead.

Tokyo-born Yumi Katsura, whose real name was Yumi Yuki, opened Japan’s first specialty shop for bridal outfits in Tokyo in the 1960s. She ambitiously presented her work in Europe, the United States and Asia, and her franchise stores are across the nation.

She worked hard to establish a bridal culture in Japan, such as by promoting the All Japan Bridal Association and advocating for “Proposal Day.” Katsura received an award from the Commissioner for Cultural Affairs in 2019 for her distinguished service in outstanding cultural activities.

Katsura hosted a fashion show in Tokyo in March this year and unveiled about 70 new pieces adorned with her brand’s hallmark rose motifs. At the time, she said, “Next year marks the 60th anniversary of my creative activities, so I’ll do my best for that.”