Kyoko is a New York-based writer and social-justice advocate. She writes the All-Year Season newsletter covering fashion brands, current events and self-worth.

Blazer, LouLou Studio; Shirt, Tory Burch; Tights, CVS; Loafers, Stuart Weitzman, Able accessories

I am based in New York, but you’ll also find me hiking through forests in Washington D.C.

I grew up in Taipei, Taiwan, living in Oregon, Washington state and Texas before landing in Southeast Asia. When I’m not working I am probably fiddling with my Sony, watching the latest Bulls game or making some sort of list.

In case you were wondering, I am Black, White and Japanese! :) I grew up not meeting a lot of beauty standards that are programmed into us, and though the fashion and beauty industry has come a long way since I was a kid, we still have places to go.

My mission is to make the fashion and media industry accessible to people who get dressed every day but somehow do not think fashion is for them. I firmly believe you don’t need to lose weight to get that top, and you don’t need to be “this tall” to ride the fashion ride. I am here to help you curate a closet that honors the most authentic you.

Find fashion tips and chat with me in the All-Year Season tab.

I was the Assistant Fashion Editor at The Wall Street Journal, where I collaborated with brands including Adidas, Mejuri, Bottega Veneta and Prada.

exalt elevates expectations of personal success for youth ages 15-19 who’ve been involved in the criminal justice system. We inspire youth at a critical crossroads to believe in their worth, from the first steps in contemplation through the journey to create lasting behavioral change. Our powerful combination of structured classes for tangible skill development, individualized support to navigate the education and justice systems, placement in paid internships and an alumni network of resources equips youth with the tools and experience to avoid further criminal justice system involvement.

exalt youth

As a fashion editor for The Wall Street Journal’s weekend features section “Off Duty,” I pitched, researched and wrote short features on style and fashion trends. I created fashion market lineups featuring brands including Tory Burch, Ashya, J.Crew, Alex Mill, Brunello Cucinelli and Officine Générale, among others. See some of my work with WSJ on the work samples tab.

Editing & Writing

It is so easy to tell ourselves we will get our dream wardrobe once we make this amount of money or have that body (I know I’ve told myself that a dozen or more times). Screw that! Let’s shake up this mindset, because there’s no reason to wait to feel good in what you wear. Find brand recommendations and styling tips on the All-Year Season tab.

Fashion Styling

Today, I partner with businesses, primarily in media and fashion, to create internships for youth who are court-involved. Reach out here to get involved.

fall/winter 2025 pieces from brand Daveed Baptiste