Designer Junko Shimada reflects on single motherhood in Paris

In a personal memoir, fashion designer Junko Shimada reflects on the hardships of raising her daughter, Kyoko, as a single mother while building her career in Paris during the 1980s.

Shimada describes a period of extreme financial struggle, including instances where electricity was cut off due to inability to pay bills. She often worked in her Montmartre apartment while her daughter played nearby, and once even attended a fashion show finale while holding her crying child. Her primary motivation for professional success was the desire to ensure her daughter's happiness.

Shimada also recalls the importance of her Japanese roots, frequently taking Kyoko back to her family home in Tateyama during school breaks. She credits her father's support during difficult times, noting his encouragement to become a strong woman helped her overcome various obstacles.