Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on October 2011

Tokyo has its trainspotting, head-in-the-mixer DJs. Then there’s Tiffany Rossdale, aka Tokyo Hottie. As often as not spotted behind the decks in a bikini, Rossdale has breathed new life into our city’s club scene since starting her Tokyo Fashionista events a few years back.

Metropolis caught up with the Filipino-American fashion model-cum-impresario on the eve of her third anniversary event—which also happens to be her birthday party.

Who exactly is DJ Tiffany Rossdale and how did you come to be the Tokyo Hottie?
DJ Tiffany Rossdale or Tokyo Hottie is a fun, witty, energetic model/entertainer/producer who plays funky, danceable tracks in her hot bikini! My closest friends convinced me to use the nickname Tokyo Hottie. It might have something to do with the provocative outfits…

What was the motivation to start Tokyo Fashionista?
When I first hosted Tokyo Fashionista, I never expected it would be a hit. But the first time it was a huge success. Doing a fashion event is not easy because you have to deal with so many things. I get tired sometimes and think of stopping. But people’s warm support keeps us doing it.

Tell us about your first Tokyo Fashionista and how it has evolved.
The first time I did Tokyo Fashionista I only had female gaijin bikini models in my show. It was a hit with the guys. But then I thought: how about the girls? So I put male gaijin models in the show and they loved it. We also started having clothing brands sponsor the show, like Desigual, Billabong, and Von Zipper. Now, I’m starting to release my own line.

What have been the wildest and sexiest Fashionista moments?
Oh, there’s plenty. When we did our first anniversary, I asked two of my sexy models (one male, one female) to do naked sushi. It was a big hit! Another time I was wearing this fab kimono dress for the show finale, guarded by my two hunk models. I took off my kimono and went topless while a professional calligrapher drew on my back.

Give us a peek backstage at Tokyo Fashionista.
That’s a place you don’t want to go! Clothes and makeup everywhere; performers and models all over the place. I guess it’s because me and my crew have all bonded, so we can do all the crazy stuff, like drinking Jäger bombs… walking around naked… making out… But before we hit the stage, I remind everyone to be serious.

How has the quake impacted upon Tokyo Fashionista?
I never thought it would be the end. Most of my crew are gaijin and half the people who come to my events are, too. Some left for a while, but most came back. When we did our Tokyo Fashionista Model Charity Auction last spring, we were able to gather some cash to send to Tohoku. A few of my crew even went to Tohoku to help: people like my regular models Dean Newcombe, Justin Berti and DJ Dominic Allen.

What is right and wrong with the Tokyo club scene?
I still don’t get the strictness of the Japanese when it comes to loud music. As an event producer, it’s hard to find spots to do Tokyo Fashionista. I also think that it’s right to check IDs, but some clubs make too much of it. Spiking drinks around Roppongi bars and clubs has also been an issue for years. How can we get more people going out in the area if this keeps happening?

What kind of vibe can we expect when Tiffany Rossdale is behind the decks?
I play fresh Billboard top tracks or sexy electro. I am not really a pro DJ, but I know what my crowd wants to hear. And I feel happy when I see everyone on the dance floor, and the smiles on their faces. It’s a different kind of excitement and I really enjoy it.

Tokyo Fashionista Third Anniversary Party “The House of Bunnies” at Space Shower Diner TV, Oct 15 (listing).

www.tokyofashionista.com