Alumni

Alumna Kanna Taniuchi Returns From Dubai After Working on Beyoncé's Costume Team

Film & TV Costume Design Grad Kanna Taniuchi recently returned from Dubai, where she assisted with costumes and styling for Beyoncé’s concert. She has worked with Beyoncé’s costume team since the 2016 Formation tour. Kanna’s duties include dressing Beyoncé, tailoring her costumes and clothing, and assisting in the construction of the backup dancers’ costumes. 

Kanna grew up in Osaka, Japan and attended Shinai High School. She studied Fashion Design and Film & TV Costume Design at FIDM with a final graduation in 2007. She credits FIDM with helping her build a path to success. “FIDM definitely prepared me for being out there in the real world. My teacher and mentor Susan Nininger helped guide me from class then to practice in the industry. Without her and FIDM I wouldn’t be here.”

Beyoncé isn’t the only superstar on Kanna’s roster. She’s also worked with Nicki Minaj, Ariana Grande, Katy Perry, Khloe Kardashian, and many others. Her work takes her all over the world, which she loves. 

In addition to her wardrobe work, Kanna recently opened a community-based showroom called UFO P.R. House. “My partner John Nguyen and I wanted to have a place for designers who don't have opportunities in America to be able to showcase here in the West. We wanted to connect the East to the West.” The showroom also provides custom-made and tailoring services for clients to create costumes from patterning to cut and sew. 

Kanna’s varied experience has given her a unique perspective, and her advice springs from there. “I would like to tell the students at FIDM that no matter where you come from, work hard because smart people are watching. Set your goals! You may get lost at times but be strong and know where you want to be and don’t forget to enjoy the journey on the way.”

Explore Kanna’s work on Instagram @kannataniuchi and @ufoprhouse.

Categories:  Film & TV Costume Design Alumni