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INTERVIEW WITH DESIGNER HEEJIN KIM OF KIMMY J #CONCEPTKOREA part 4

8/25/2016

Heejin Kim’s love of visualization and installation art is written all over her collection with the manifestation of wearable art that is both cool urban wear with a twist of the fantastical. Always with an edge of unique detailing that tells a story, allowing a freedom of expression through her pieces.

From the black leather jacket that draws the eye up with its zipper detailing, leading us to the mixed black and bright pink fur around the collar, to the pink leather jacket with black thick fringe material, Kim's pieces make a statement.

All the while, Kim cleverly juxtaposes a heavy urban aesthetic through the leather jacket then adds a new dimension with a playful and surprising pink satin pant that balances urban vibes with modern and daring street style.

Kim is creating clothes for the new age, a new point of view, for a generation unafraid to experiment. She is breaking gender barriers with her pieces as they are equally suitable for both men and women, a style beyond definition.

Another stand out piece is Kim's mixed fabric leather jacket, with leather collar and wool material on the sleeves with grey and white pattern adorning them, giving us a sense of comfort, but at the same time still managing to make a statement.

Designer Heejin Kim and Stacy Fan

Thank you for taking the time to meet, Heejin Kim!

You studied integrated design at Yonsei University. What made you decide to begin a career in fashion?

I always felt interested in visualizing what I wanted to say since childhood, I was in interested installation art and in interior design. As I grew in the design world I became more interested in the concept of human beings, this intensified the intention of the humans themselves and naturally developed into the interest in fashion since clothes are the closest things to the body.

You went to St. Martins College of Fashion in London. How was that experience for you at both the college and living in London?

I only completed a course at St Martins. There were many professors that came in and out but one that made an impact on me was Christopher Grey, I remember his feedback that he had given, he was the tutor of illustration drawing. He looked more deeply into each student’s idea. He didn’t stick to the school ideas and that really stayed with me. I know that every student that went to London to study had a difficult time, they enjoyed it but it was quite hard.

What is the meaning behind the name Kimmy J?

Kimmy is my nickname, and 'J' symbolizes my friends. Because the people I’m surrounded with have the name ‘J’ in their name, so they represent the people around me. The name was people thinking about all the people I love and also a nod to myself.

I saw in a previous interview that you are quite an activist, how does this manifest itself into your designs?

I am really not very good with words; I don’t have a lot of friends to speak with. I am a speechless chatterbox! I can express myself and my thoughts into drawing and this has helped me expand my ideas into society. I didn’t know how to do this until I figured out how to organize my thoughts. Now I can and I am able to put them into my drawings. One of my ongoing projects is finding which idea to project onto my designs.

Do you always have a social message within your collections?

Sending a social message to my customers is one of my mottos. It’s what I talk about when I meet people, how to send social messages through my designs. It is very important to me to have that social message in each collection but interpret it in a fun way. I always try and find a way to do this.

What inspires you and how do you create your collection around it?

If there is a certain message I would brain storm it, if it can be expressed and interpreted through the collection, I will use it.

Usually people think of music or other kinds of inspiration, but for me the change in time and the change in society and the trends in society and the gradual change in us is what I like to express through my designs.

How would you describe your own personal style?

I always stick to a unique style, everything I wear, I always buy exceptional pieces. They have to have a specific wit or vibe or even something I could not make myself. Not necessarily expensive. I also always wear warm clothes. I can’t stand the cold! It might look to other people that I don’t like shopping but I am a picky shopper. I’m also a healthy eater, when I’m with friends I eat whatever but when I’m by myself I eat healthily and I also like to exercise but I work a lot so it’s hard.

How would you describe the women you are dressing, who is a Kimmy J customer?

I would describe them as a person who knows themselves well and is never pushed around, confident not just consuming things but has a well rounded view on life.

I read a quote in which you said, “Good design helps the development of a healthy society and mankind.” Can you expand on what you mean by this and was this your intention when you started out as a designer?

I have had this idea since childhood and in the years since then, that people have an instant reaction to visual outlets. I was trying to help people understand what the power of sympathy means, not just image, but something tangible and this is what a brand can do best. We plan to work our way up with this vision.

What is your design process like, from inspiration to final product?

I think of my message. I put it in categories, after categorizing the written thoughts. I then sketch out the details, fabric, add silhouette but recently I have been putting more time in to deciding on what materials to use.

What has been the biggest challenge for you with starting up your own company?

Since it’s only been three years, proving the value is very hard and is still underway, working towards my brand direction.

What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I think the biggest accomplishment I have is that I have never been in debt to anyone, achieving my goals by myself.

You’ve already been so successful in such a short period of time since launching your company. What do you think has been the key to your success?

Even though it’s been a short time, one year felt like a very long time! I never pushed or rushed things, I based things on my budget and vision and to be honest, in the beginning I felt very rushed because of my finances but after that one year I was able to continue to the next step.

If you had any advice for a new designer, what would it be?

The advice I would give? Once per week ask yourself the following questions, is there anything else I can do except this? (Kim laughs!) it’s hard so ask yourself this. Then if there isn’t, you have to ask yourself, what do I expect from this? Then finally, what do I need to do this week to achieve this?

Great questions to ask yourself in this industry or any other. Where would you like to see yourself in ten years time?

Because my current studio is not very bright, it’s not really suitable for a good
working environment, so I would like to have a nice studio with warm light coming in.

What does being chosen by Concept Korea mean to you?

As I began to launch my career, I always wanted to join Concept Korea. I really respected the designers and I am so happy to be a part of it. I want to create a great show for everyone.

Thank you, Heejin. I have no doubt you will!

All Look book photo credits - Kimmy J
Kimmy J on Instagram
Kimmy J Online

With Special thanks to the KOCCA and Concept Korea.

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INTERVIEW WITH GREEDILOUS DESIGNER YOUNHEE PARK #CONCEPTKOREA part 3

8/25/2016

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YounHee Park’s collection is a perfect reflection of the designer herself, professional but fun, with strong visuals, yet balanced perfectly with delicate details, but instantly recognizable with her strong graphics and colors that are representative of Park’s bubbly personality.

Park came to fashion in the most natural way possible, looking around one day and realizing how many clothes she had and how much she loved them, and having an ‘aha’ moment that perhaps she was studying the wrong area of industry. She soon switched from industrial design to fashion design.

Fashion clearly runs in Park's blood. Her mother studied fashion and was a huge source of encouragement for Park to also pursue it. She began studying at the age of twenty and has been working in the industry ever since. ‘Greedilous’ is a combination of the word Greed, and Lous, which means ‘to have it all’. Park wanted to tell people to want it all. Encouraging people to have greed, but greed to learn, greed to develop, greed to invest, rediscover and re-interpret oneself.

Park’s collection is an embodiment of strength, determination, hard work and independence. Named after the concept of “Futuristic Modernity” a nudge to the future. With striking silhouettes and gorgeous draping, Park’s created a strong DNA to her brand that shows her personality, a unique view point, and inspires all at once. She is not afraid of color, and uses prints within all of her collections. Her prints are striking and unique to park, all originally designed by Park herself.

With stand-out pieces from her FW16 collection that include her hero coat, made up of a combination of mixed wool, layered over with peach lapels and sleeves, with strong black edging running down the zipper edge, and topped of with a mixed knit wool hood. Paired with leather trousers, it showcases a strong woman, ready to take on the world. Other pieces see our Greedilous girl off duty, wearing a new take on the harem pant, skinnier than ones we have previously seen, adding a toughened up elegance, and styled with Park’s original print sweater, with sequences on the sleeve.

Park hasn’t over looked our edgy professional girl either, creating another stand out piece with a deep burgundy blazer cape dress also available in white. Another design that is so unique to Park’s collection, with detailing at the back of the cape with beautifully structured draping, and a black thick band that runs through the center creating a gorgeous synched in silhouette from every angle.

Stacy Fan with Greedilous designer, YounHee Park, who is wearing one of her own designs.

YounHee Park, thank you so much for taking the time to chat!

I love your collection. The prints are so beautiful, and combined with the unique cut of your design makes each piece so special. You made a move into fashion after realizing you had such a passion for clothes. What aspect of fashion and design means the most to you?

When I was younger I thought that the only way to communicate was through making clothes. They key way I communicate is through my designs. It has really helped me in creating the style I have right now, I really do communicate so much through my clothes.

Your mother also studied fashion, how has she influenced you as a woman and as a designer?

Ever since I was young I liked watching ‘Gone with The wind’ and ‘Roman Holiday’ and my mum would always make me and my siblings clothes and she would always ask our opinion on what fabric and buttons we would want and my mother would make that for us. I think that all helped with developing me into the person I am now.

You previously worked at Korean fashion company ‘Obzee’ and ‘Hansome’ for 15 years prior to starting up your own company. What was the biggest lesson you learnt whilst working for those companies?

I have always worked with a lot of senior directors and I would always communicate with them and get satisfying results by communicating with my superiors. With those results, I realized you cannot just only try hard, you can't win by just working hard, you must know there is nothing impossible and you always must stick with your own instincts and have some pride in your ideas. I have trained very hard to become who I am right now. The lessons I've learnt with those designers still stay with me today.

After so much experience in the fashion industry, how did you find starting up Greedilous? Was it as you had imagined?

After working for 15 years I have come to find myself. I've become more interested in exploring my potential as the years went on by challenging myself. I wanted to separate into my own space and look into making a name for myself as a fashion designer and discover what it is to become ‘Greedilous’. I think everything is how I planned it. I feel like I am still working in a big company but there is a lot of room to be 'me'. There is a lot of competition in this industry, but I am still enjoying the work I am doing.

Do you remember the exact moment you knew that you wanted to begin your own line?

I felt like I was discovering something new, like I became Christopher Columbus or something. Like the feeling I was finding something new that other people hadn’t found! Everything has been going so fast that even now I don’t really know what to do with the excitement I feel. It has gone so fast! When the brand was launched I felt like I had been born again. I don’t sleep very well as it’s so hard to believe that it’s all come so far. It has only taken one year from the idea of starting the company, to actually launching.

You founded the company in 2012. How do you think your collections have evolved since you first launched?

Even though I still think I have a lot to work on, I am growing the company to become more recognized. I need to keep doing what I do best and stick with the DNA of my brand. Also Concept Korea has been an amazing stepping stone in helping me get where I want to be.

Who are some of the designers you look up to and admire?

While I was working as a designer before Greedilous, one person that helped me really become who I am today is the designer of Obzee, Kang Jin Young. I have great respect for her.

What was the biggest challenge with starting up your own company?

When I first have to sketch, developing and making the initial concept itself is hard in the beginning. Getting that first idea for what the company's aesthetic would be was a challenge.

What has been your biggest accomplishment?

The biggest accomplishment is making Greedilous more like me and more like what I am and the vision I have. That is the biggest accomplishment. Really defining the brand.

Your name Greedilous, means someone who wants it all. What does ‘having it all’ mean to you?

Having it all means a person who has so many abilities, but a hunger for more. Someone who utilizes their abilities to the limit. For me personally, as a designer I wanted to use whatever abilities I had to put that on inner clothing. To project whatever abilities I have into my clothing, into my brand.

Beyonce wearing a Greedilous leather jacket

How do you want women to feel when they wear your clothes?

I want people to feel fabulous, to have that feeling! A lot of celebrities enjoy wearing my clothes, when Beyonce wore my clothing it was the most magical fabulous moment. She looked like a clear diamond. I want people to feel like that. Like a diamond.

You started studying fashion when you were just twenty. Has being a designer helped you realize who you are as a woman?

When I was young, when I first wanted to become a fashion designer I felt I could express myself through clothing like a chameleon. I wanted to create clothes that would allow women different ways to communicate and express themselves. I'm still working on it though and still always developing.

You use really distinctive graphic prints in your design, where do you get the inspiration for the designs?

For this 2017 collection, I went to Canada to this amusement park and that amusement park became one of my inspirations. 100 years ago that space was where they made war weapons. It was a very dark space that was renovated into a really fantastic amusement park and this inspired me to become a source of hope for people, and project that on to my work.

I wanted to project that on to my clothing, the idea of how a dark place can become an area of hope and inspiration and this is how I created my 2017 collection.

I saw from your 2016 S/S collection that some pieces were for both men and women. When creating your prints is making them unisex a consideration for you or do you think that fashion and design can defy gender barriers and work for everyone?

Men these days can express themselves through fashion in various ways and now it’s not uncommon to see the same pieces be styled for both men and women. It’s a very common idea now that seems very appealing. Even casual mens t-shirts can be used as a unisex item and applied to different designs and culture, no matter the gender difference. There is really no barrier anymore.

Your collection is an incredible blend of items that really appeal to strong women. Is there a specific memory you had or an inspiration that has helped you form the overall DNA for Greedilous?

Figuring out my identity, the process of this for has taken fifteen years. It’s a mix of memories that I think are special. Working for fifteen years as a designer with brands, I have experienced many new collections and seen many ideas come to fruition and the process of this experience has become very special to me.

How would you describe the woman you are dressing? What kind of woman is a Greedilous woman?

Greedilous is a women that can express her worth, fabulously, like a perfect diamond, and a person with great self esteem, is how I would describe a Greedilous women.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

I would like to see the brand identity as very high-end and everyone will know Greedilous. I would like to have a New York retail store, I’d like to tour the world! I would like to think I would be able to that in ten years.

What does being chosen by Concept Korea mean to you and how do you feel the international response has been to your collection so far?

As a Korean designer representative, I am very thankful for being able to show my collection in New York and I feel like I have to be confident and work with pride to show it as its best. The response I’ve had, actually people don’t think it’s a Korean Brand. Because of the style they think it’s an LA brand!

All Lookbook photo credits: Greedilous

Find Greedilous on Instagram
Greedilous online

With special thanks to KOCCA and Concept Korea.

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INTERVIEW WITH DESIGNER YOHAN KIM OF YOHANIX #CONCEPTKOREA PART2

8/25/2016

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Yohan Kim is no ordinary designer. His viewpoint is strong, his ideas progressive. Having studied at London College of Fashion, Kim quickly made a name for himself, working for MichiKo Koshino whilst still a student, and after two years was promoted to senior designer. Not only that, Kim’s first job after graduating was as senior designer for Balmain, a position that saw him move to Paris.

Seeing Kim's latest 2016/FW collection it’s not surprising to see why Balmain snapped him up. Known for his use of leather, his collection is comprised of the perfect balance of femininity but strength, taking trend items, such as the bomber jacket and the overall but adding fine details like a delicate gold flower embellishment on the overall strap, a detail which runs throughout this collection and a mix of fabric that makes the pieces distinct to Kim.

Kim's pieces are familiar yet oh so different, unique but completely wearable. Mixing strong pieces with harder looking materials (think leather, strong hardware with zippers interestingly placed on his skirts, jackets and trousers) but juxtaposing it with softer materials and combinations such as a leather rider jacket and a beautiful asymmetric shirtdress. Some pieces gave a nod to a more classic aesthetic, using tweed but keeping it contemporary by pairing it with navy wide legged trousers, which are embellished with subtle sequins.

Every detail was thought through as we see his models stride down the runway accessorized with geek chic glasses, or armored up with sunglasses or topped off with the perfect hat or cap. We get who the Yohanix girl is; effortlessly cool, feminine but hard as nails, expressive yet mysterious. And boy do we want to know her, heck; we want to BE her. Needless to say after this knock out collection, I couldn’t wait to ask Kim about his experiences up to this point and his plans for the future.

Stacy Fan with designer Yohan Kim

Thank you so much for taking the time to interview!

I adore your collection. I love your use of leather, with the great embellishments. It has such a luxe couture feel about it.

You studied at the London College of Fashion, why did you decide to study there and what was the experience like for you?

I looked at both NY and London but I felt like London was more free, I just finished my military service at this time and at the London College of Fashion you are able to study and work at the same time, I was so ambitious so I studied there as I could also work. I wanted to be maybe like the youngest director or something like that! I still really love London and I still miss London. I think London is perfect as a designer, as they think about their own style and not other designers.

Did you always know that you wanted to be a designer?

I wanted to be an industrial designer, working more with machines, cars and cameras but when I thought about those design parts, they are very slow. I wanted something quick. With fashion I can make it every six months, I can communicate with the people. I am not that patient, so with fashion, I can bring things to people much quicker. So when I was twenty, I changed to fashion.

You previously worked for MichiKo Koshino, how did that position come about?

When I was in my 2nd year, I started selling my stuff in Carnaby street. We made clothes at school but I felt it was a waste, so I sold my school work! However I found the attitude was different. When I brought my garments out to sell, I was so nervous. I sold one garment, a pair of jeans for £300. It took me one week to make them.

I was selling it next to the MichiKo Koshino store and she saw my garment. I started working there and two years later I became the senior designer. They really taught me a lot. At the end of my second year I was the proper creative designer and went to Milan Fashion Week. I just debuted as a designer and modeled. It was quite fun! MichiKo Koshino then changed her store and she started supporting young designers. They did all the shop instillation and I was a big part of that team. I used fresh paper to make mannequins. They went international. Working there I was quite free creatively. Later I really wanted to work with leather. I knew how to work in the factory because of my experience before St Martins. I told MichiKo that I wanted to learn about leather, she still paid me and allowed me to go back to Korea to a factory that specialized in leather to learn. However when I was there they said they didn’t need me. So instead I just did all the rubbish jobs there and after two weeks they said they would teach me. In two months I learnt how to make leather boots! I worked from 9-11pm or 9-12am and did two months of training in 2 years. I even learnt pattern making.

More recently you worked with Christophe Decarnin at Balmain. How did that opportunity come about and what was that experience like for you, especially living in Paris?

My graduating piece from St. Martin’s was leather. After a few months Balmain called me. It was an offer to work with their line Balmain Blue but it didn’t end up being launched because they couldn’t work out the price, as obviously Balmain is very high-end leather.

For both jobs I got really lucky. Balmain were on the look out for new designers and they saw my graduating pieces and they wanted to know more Asian designers, so I was really lucky. I was one of the few Asian designers there. When I went there I was kind of bullied a lot, the people in the office were really sweet but the ateliers were really hard on me. They said, “We are Balmain!” They said I didn’t have pride as a designer. But now to our team I say, “We are Yohanix” as to me it means having pride in your work. Balmain is very conservative. We dropped a lot of garments because of that, but it helps the label in the end. I like to say ‘Team Yohanix’ as I don’t work alone.

What was the biggest lesson you have learnt working for Balmain and how did what you learnt help launch your own line Yohanix?

Pride! I learnt that lesson a lot. When I left the company I had high confidence. I thought, ‘I can be Balmain’, but with Yohanix we want to be a high-end label and a high-end house. But to be that you need to have a history and I forgot about that. And maintaining the company is very hard. The CEO of Balmain is great, so they can achieve that. In the beginning I had a really hard time.

How did you come up with the name Yohanix and what does the word mean to you?

It’s a mix of my Christian name and it also symbolizes the phoenix, so it means Yohanix never dies. I originally wanted to use my own name, I wanted to be a high-end label fashion house from Korea so I wanted to use Kim but when we went to do business in China it cost too much to buy out the name.

What has been the biggest challenge for you with starting up your own line?

Working for a large company then going to start up your own small company, you can use the best material at the biggest companies. They come to you, but when I started out, with minimum quantity, even though I went to them they didn’t want to see me. We overcame this by finding our own way, we pay a little more but we make our own fabric and use our own technique.

What has been the biggest accomplishment for you so far?

Team Yohanix. We’ve spent four years building the team, a good pattern maker, beader, a technician. We try to make our team stronger.

You specialize in and use a lot of leather in your collection, what is your favorite thing about this material and have you always loved designing with leather?

To me leather is like origami, making it the way you would work with paper, I like constructing the leather. I also use vegetable dye, as it’s better for the environment, we have been doing a lot of leather for five years, but now we are trying to limit the leather. Before leather was selling really well but now winters are getting shorter, summer is getting longer, so now the leather is still strong but we make less pieces. Last season we had forty looks; only ten looks or eight looks were leather.

You have travelled a lot and lived in several places including London, Paris and later Beijing. How has your travel influenced you as a designer?

I think somehow it has really helped. We sell internationally, in places like Dubai and because of my experience, living in different cities; I have an understanding of different people. If I only focused on Korea then it wouldn’t help me.

Do you see very distinct differences between the way Korean women dress, Vs. Women in London and Paris?

In London, they are a traditional but also it’s a really trendy city, that’s why there is vintage and punk styles there, they are all quite experimental. Paris is very chic, they are very quiet, and Korea, in a good way, is really trendy, but in a bad way they always care about what other people think and how they look. Their cycle is very quick and in some ways they are too quick.

Koreans buy less garment-based pieces, and buy more basic pieces and less color. China they want the craziest designs, they sometimes will do a special order, and sometimes change the length for instance on some of the pieces. We have our own atelier, so we are very flexible. We have three different styles, the chic cut, one is crazier and then one is in the middle.

You first launched your line in 2009, in London. Was there a reason you decided to launch in London first?

I had lived in London for 7 years so that was the reason. It wasn’t working though. The production fee was too high, after making the piece to make it at the right profitability the selling price for a shirt was over £1000.

You were invited as special guest to The White Show during 2016 FW Milan Fashion week. How did you get invited?

They wanted to invite the Chinese designers. They found out about our garments, saw I was Chinese, so invited us!

You had an outdoor runway at Milan's landmark, ‘The Piazza Del Duomo’. Were there any interesting episodes during the event?

Because the plaza had never done this before, it was very restricted and each model had to have a body guard each! In total they had twenty bodyguards! More than 20 police were also there. It was a little rainy and the models were holding white umbrellas. It wasn’t planned but people thought it was. It looked really good!

You got to participate in 2016 FW New York Fashion for the first time through Concept Korea last season. What was the local reaction/feedback you received in New York?

We came to Milan straight after NYFW so we didn’t see the reactions there, but received a lot of emails while we were in Milan and the reaction was really good!

In the 2016 FW Seoul Fashion Week, the models erased their lipstick during the performance. What was the meaning behind this performance?

Our concept was about decision disorder. It was a very direct idea. When people go out they take time to get ready and put their make up on but when they actually go out they still change their mind about what they are wearing or how they do their make up. When they go out they still aren’t happy so they end up removing their make up. This was the reason for models removing their lipstick during the performance.

From the first collection launching until 2016 FW, every season you have participated in Paris Tranoi. Is there a special reason for participating every season?

My friend is part of the Paris Tranoi, it is the best tradeshow for us and 40% of our income is from them. So we go every season.

How would you describe the women you are dressing?

Yohanix is like street combat, so, someone who is special, someone who can handle our garment. We don’t support all the celebrities who approach us. Sometimes we reject people if we feel the garment is eating the celebrity.

Where do you get your inspiration from when designing a collection?

Usually, personal inspiration, by what I like to wear. FW16 was about decision disorder. I like dark clothes and wear heavy pieces so when I did a colorful collection it was a little confusing, so I tried to make the next collection a bit more like myself.

Can you walk me through the creative process? Are you big on sketching, or draping? How do you begin designing?

I do a lot of computer work. I actually put everything down there and don’t sketch. I use the computer.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

Just sitting here, hoping to meet you again. I’d like to sit here and interview with you about my last ten years in designing. I want to last a long time and build experience.

Yohan, me too...

Click for more information on Yohanix
Yohanix on Instagram

All Runway photo credits courtesy of Yohanix

Special thanks to KOCCA and Concept Korea

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CONCEPT KOREA: INTERVIEW WITH PROJECT MANAGER, MS. JI KYEONG HWA

8/21/2016

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Above : This years Concept Korea designers, the designers behind Yohanix, Greedilous and Kimmy J

In the past few years, Korea has undoubtedly become one of the most fashion forward and trendsetting countries in Asia.

In the last few years traveling back and forth between LA, London and different countries within Asia, I have seen the influx of Korean designers and Korean culture truly dominate the Asian market and even influence the western market. From K-Pop, Korean drama’s and of course fashion, Korea has well and truly marked themselves on the fashion map.

I was fortunate enough to finally visit South Korea for the first time last month and the hype completely lived up to my expectations. The streets were awash with the trendiest of stores, boutiques and department stores.

One of the most standout experiences I had in Korea was meeting with The Korean Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) and Concept Korea’s three winning designers showing at this years NYFW.

KOCCA is founded by South Korea’s leading government agency that backs the development and exposure of Korean creatives both in Korea and internationally. They don’t just cover fashion but everything from animation, music, broadcasting and even character licensing.

I was so impressed to see such an amazing platform for creatives to build their brand and gain publicity both domestically and internationally.

KOCCA actively helps the advancement of these industries with production support, marketing and promotion, including global expansion abroad, as well as human capital development, and the implementation of cultural technology.

KOCCA is broken down into three organizations, Content Korea Lab, cel Academy, and cel Venture Complex. The aim of Content Korea Lab (CKL) is to allow any Korean Citizen who has a solid idea, to make their dream a reality or to start a business. cel Academy is there to help provide concept creators with training, and cel Venture Complex is there to nurture content start-ups. Incredibly impressive, I think you’ll agree?!

Concept Korea ensures the promotion of Korean fashion designers outside of Korea and in the past have specifically focused on assisting designers break in to the US fashion market. Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of The Republic of Korea and Korea Creative Contents Agency. Concept Korea began in 2010, and this F/W 2015 season marked the organization's 14th time showing at New York Fashion Week. I was fortunate enough to sit down with the Project manager of the KOCCA to focus specifically on discussing Concept Korea to learn more about their future plans and how they have evolved and strengthened since their launch.

Stacy Fan (Centre) and KOCCA Project manager, Ji Kyeong Hwa (right)

Ji Kyeong Hwa Thank you so much for taking the time to meet and interview!

I love that KOCCA was started up to really support cultural activities. With Concept Korea being the first of its kind and was launched to support Korean designers specifically build their brand and bring it to both a Korean market as well as an international one.

How important do you feel it is to have built this opportunity for local Korean designers?

We already have some designers out there supporting themselves, but KOCCA is there to help new and up and coming designers to be independent by themselves. We are there to help bridge the gap to make them truly independent as designers and ultimately support themselves.

How did the initial idea for promoting designers come about?

KOCCA already had a platform for cartoon, and other creative content. We already had this platform for art and fashion and games, animation any sort of art content. However to achieve the ultimate goal, we have to go globally with these platforms. Fashion wasn’t expanding the same way. Designers certainly had high creativity but they lacked certain techniques of how to expand. This was a good way to offer them this opportunity. We already did it in other areas so it was a good way to help small brands expand.

Concept Korea is such an amazing platform for designers, really promoting them on an international level. Can you walk me through the process of starting up Concept Korea when it began in 2010 and how it has evolved since then?

From 2010 to 2012 the emphasis was more focused on the Korean image. In 2012-2014 more focused on the promotional side of Korean fashion then in 2014 to now we are focusing more on the professional field to market designers abroad, the unique characteristics of the designers and their work and more business focused aspects for the designers, to help them establish themselves within the global market.

In the beginning our strategy was to get the word out there about Korean fashion. Therefore the first step was to promote them. We want to connect globally. Now we have done that we are focusing on helping designers with the business side of it. Helping designers to grow in the international market. We have got our name out there by taking part in NYFW. In addition to showcasing the designers in NYFW we also have showrooms available for the designers.

How important do you think fashion is in defining a countries culture and specifically really bringing the Korean culture to the attention of the world?

It’s really helping identify Korean style and what Korean fashion is, the modern fashion. We are focused on promoting those up and coming designers that are able to showcase and best exemplifies that. Needless to say all the designers have very different styles, but they have a certain style that Korean fashion shares. For instance, Jarred (designer Ji Yeon-Lee) a few seasons ago, in season 13 with her Asian style drew foreign interest. Also we have interest from China, and other countries within Asia as K-Pop is really popular which makes people very interested in Korean fashion.

What is the process of choosing the designers that are selected each year?

Every season we have an application for designers to go through. The first involves a Q and A test containing questions about their vision and plans for expansion. Candidates are finally selected from judges abroad, comprised of professional fashion experts.

This season we had a couple of judges that chose the three designers that showed in New York Fashion Week. The applicants would show the judges their designs. The judges evaluate the designers; assess how they plan to develop their brand, how strong their vision is and how they see their path for the future.

How many people apply?

It’s a high bar to even apply, therefore in some ways it’s not that competitive as they have to have some sales before applying, and also what goals they have going forward. There is a very high evaluation scale that they have to go through. So in the end the competition is 2 to 1.

Stacy Fan meeting with the three designers picked by Concept Korea
(L-R) Yohan Kim, YounHee Park, Heejin Kim

What do you look for when choosing the designers? Do they have to have a very different style and aesthetic from each other?

The focus is more on their business sense, and what potential they would have to grow into a business. Therefore it is not just dependent on their fashion style and how different they are.

You have just shown for the 14th time at New York fashion week. That is an amazing accomplishment. How has each year strengthened since launching Concept Korea and how do you plan to expand and further develop the talent on an international scale?

Since we have now shown in NYFW for some years now, the media knows about Concept Korea, the Korean brands, and that we have active participation in NYFW. However now that we have also gained notable recognition, we are also expanding the platform to other places outside of the United States, namely Italy, Shanghai, and other places globally outside of the U.S

What do you think is the biggest challenge for designers in Korea and how does Concept Korea help designers address and overcome these challenges?

Since the Korean market is still in a transitional period, we are moving towards expanding to a global market but it is still very slow. Even though Korean fashion (on a global scale) is smaller than other more international fashion markets, Korean fashion still has many strong points with high quality and unique Korean vibes and Concept Korea is the best way for Korean designers to expand.

Are there any upcoming partnerships you can discuss?

Concept Korea will continue to do NYFW as well as expanding through Asia and Shanghai and Italy and we are also trying to target Europe and China markets. We are also partnering with Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore where we have showroom spaces. We are also looking to Hong Kong and Shanghai. We hope to continue to target new markets.

Click for more information on Concept Korea
Click for more information on KOCCA

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PLAKINGER : THE INTERVIEW

8/14/2016

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When I first came across PLAKINGER'S designs I was instantly a fan. Their collection is so feminine in silhouette but with elements of traditional men’s tailoring making the cut and structure of each piece elegant and effortlessly beautiful at the same time. In short, true perfection.

When I found out the company was founded by a mother and daughter duo, Svetlana Ziggel and her mother Galina Plakinge, I realized the reason for the perfect combination and balance within their designs.

The mother daughter duo behind PLAKINGER Svetlana Ziggel and her mother Galina Plakinge

Their brands foundation is luxury. Beginning the collection with bespoke atelier designs for a luxury clientele from Russia, Arabic countries and the US and now, PLAKINGER are now expanding their line with high-end ready to wear.

Incorporating incredible fabric, high luxury pieces that are truly effortless, resulting in modern classic pieces that are unpretentious in design and uncompromising in quality. Sharing the same fabric suppliers as Dior, Chanel and Burberry whilst keeping a reasonable price point makes PLAKINGER a go to brand for new luxury. Not only that but the clothes are 100% handmade in their atelier in Germany and produced in limited quantities making each piece unique and of the highest standard. I was understandably excited to talk to the designers themselves about their collection and their new high-end ready to wear line!

Svetlana Ziggel and Galina Plakinger thank you for taking the time to interview.

Galina, I read that you worked as a bespoke clothing atelier prior to starting up PLAKINGER. When did you first become interested in fashion and where did you work prior to starting up PLAKINGER with your daughter?

Galina Plakinger:
As a young woman in the former Soviet Union I used to sew my own clothing to look different and more fashionable. So I decided to learn women`s fashion design specialising in tailoring and cuts. I have been working as a bespoke tailor since then.

Svetlana, when did you first become interested in fashion? Having grown up with it because of your mother, did you always know you wanted to pursue a career in fashion or was there another path you were also considering?

Svetlana Ziggel:
I used to spend a lot of time at my mother’s atelier when I was a little girl. I remember that I would always stop by her working place after school and do my homework there before going home. I then started to dive into the world of fabrics, colours, and textures watching her and the other women creating tailor-made clothing.

Before we established PLAKINGER I pursued a career in the financial services industry, as I did not want to follow my parents’ paths at the time. This background is of course very useful now for the commercial side of the company. I always continued to stay involved in my mother’s business and followed fashion very closely.

Svetlana, can you tell me about any fashion memories you have of your mother, either her getting ready to go out, or any shopping experiences you had with your mother as a child? Have you always shared a love of fashion together?

Svetlana Ziggel:
The magic spot in our family’s apartment for me and my sister was my mother’s wardrobe. It was full of the handmade pieces she sewed or pieces which were contemporary in the early 80s. I still remember her pleated pale blue skirt, her violet coloured velvet high-heel sandals, her Mongolian lamb’s wool coat or her self-embroidered cotton pieces. Unfortunately we had to leave most of these when we moved to Germany; it really is a pity and I often think about those garments. Maybe this is the reason behind my love of vintage pieces.

Galina, how did you feel when you knew your daughter wanted to begin a career in fashion? It must have been a great way to bond over a shared passion?

Galina Plakinger:
I was flattered and very excited when she proposed the idea of jointly establishing a fashion label. We immediately shared the idea of creating contemporary, luxurious fashion with a strong influence of bespoke tailoring. Needless to say that I felt honoured when Svetlana first raised the idea, mostly when she suggested using her maiden name - our family name - as the brand name. We had a very strong bond before already, but with PLAKINGER we now spend even more time together.

You founded the brand together. How did the idea come about? Do you remember the moment it was first discussed?

Svetlana Ziggel:
The idea of starting PLAKINGER evolved from the work of my mother as a bespoke tailor. The level of dedication to details goes far beyond the quality of today’s ready-to-wear collections. Classic cuts are icons of timeless fashion. We wanted to offer such quality to women. This is how it all started. It was less a moment but rather a long term process until we took the final decision.

Was it a big decision or something that felt easy and a natural step?

Svetlana Ziggel:
It was both. It was a big decision because creating ready-to-wear fashion is very different from bespoke tailoring. We also added new items like accessories, knitwear or printed garments to complete the label. At the same time, establishing our own label felt like the “natural next step” for us.

How long did it take from idea to launching the company?

Galina Plakinger:
We were able to present our first collection quite quickly as we leveraged the capabilities of our bespoke atelier. But it was still a crunch for the atelier at the time as the number of pieces to be produced for a collection is higher than what we were used to for the tailoring business.

Our process and production have changed since our first collection and we have learned a lot. Also, when designing clothes for a broader and very international clientele, we needed more time to consider and anticipate, compared to a bespoke client who will typically tell us about preferences and expectations.

You began with a clientele from Russia, Arabic countries and the U.S. How did you establish yourselves in these countries and how did your customers find out about PLAKINGER when you first started out?

Svetlana Plakinger:
We started to distribute our products online; the first client came from Dubai and contacted us regarding a dress before we even opened the shop. Runway2Street whose owner we met in Paris was our first online store partner and a great support to establish the brand. From there, PLAKINGER developed based on word of mouth.

Today, we feel that our style addresses very well the preferences and taste in our core markets in Europe, Asia, the Arabic region and the US; needless to say that the PLAKINGER style also succeeds in other peripheral regions.

I love that you have now created a high-end ready to wear line. Can you tell me more about this line?

Galina Plakinger:
PLAKINGER is based on feminine and timeless details. Our brand is a vibrant mix of modern and unpretentious luxurious fashion. Sensual but strong, feminine and bold, romantic but mysterious, PLAKINGER conveys what women empowerment is all about. Our clients are elegant and confident women who love being effortlessly chic.

Can you tell me about your creative process, from inspiration to the final product?

Svetlana Plakinger:
We try to stay ahead of what is next to come, culturally as well as socially. In that regard, we follow our intuition and there can be special moments or events that define the baseline for a collection. Our Autumn Winter 2016/2017 collection is a tribute to the splendid vibes of the 1970s inspired by Jerry Hall and photographed in the heritage building of the Shanghai Waldorf Astoria.

When we decide upon a collection’s inspiration we will start with fabrics selection and print development. My mother develops the cuts in parallel and as soon as the fabrics arrive at our atelier she will start producing the prototypes. This is the ideal scenario. Unfortunately we need to deal with delays, fabrics flaws and other unexpected factors. So oftentimes there are surprises and lots of overnight work before we ultimately finish a collection.

Do you both share the same sense of style, and how do you bring your visions together?

Galina Plakinger:
Regarding the general philosophy and direction, we are on the same page and I think it is a prerequisite for a duo creating fashion; particularly in a family business. At the same time, when it comes to details and specific designs we disagree quite frequently. You would not believe how long we discuss certain details, comfort of wear or long-term fit for instance.

We embrace that dialogue as a gift. Our designs together are better than any of our individual ideas. This process is a crucial part in the way we work.

How do you divide up your roles within the company?

Svetlana Ziggel:
We both work on the design process and take all decisions together. But I focus more on developing the inspirations and print ideas, choosing suitable fabrics and preparing the first ideas for the cuts. The selection of exquisite and luxurious fabrics is important too, as they are the texture on which our ideas are based. And I am spending a major part of my day with communication, either with our suppliers, partners or clients.

Galina Plakinger:
I am more involved in the technical process of tailoring the garments and developing the cuts. The perfectly tailored fit is the most important feature as I want to get our clothes as close as possible to a bespoke fit.

Can you run through what a typical day is like for you both?

Svetlana Ziggel:
Emails come first every day. I am working with partners in Asia, I live in Germany myself and I have partners and clients in the US as well, so I need to cover different time zones. Thereafter I would take care of my kids before they go to school, and then I have a chat with my mother to discuss what is going on in the atelier during the day. When we develop a new collection we talk very often, so I can see the prototypes and first cuts. I usually pick-up my kids from school in the afternoon and spend some time with them. Though, in-between and when they go to bed I continue my work for PLAKINGER.

Galina Plakinger:
I start my days very early; my youngest son was living with me until this summer so we had breakfast together every morning. Right after I would start working in my atelier. There are often meetings with our bespoke clients. I usually have lunch with my mother and I continue to work until the evening. At the moment we are very busy with the PLAKINGER Spring/Summer 2017 collection that will be showcased in Paris in September. Working on a new collection can be very exhausting for the body and the mind as well. I enjoy doing some gardening or sports, it helps me relax.

Do you ever creatively disagree on how you see the final collection and if so, how do you compromise and bring both of your aesthetics and visions together?

Galina Plakinger:
I think for any kind of designer duos - not only mother/daughter - teamwork is crucial. With respect, clearly defined tasks and lots of passion for what we are doing we manage to direct our creativity smoothly. We do disagree creatively sometimes; but as mentioned previously, it is part of finding superior designs and better solutions.

Svetlana Ziggel:
There is a lot of strength and power in a mother/daughter relationship to capitalise on, and we are trying to take advantage of that as much as we can. My mother and I always had a close relationship and it helps us find common grounds whenever we have a discussion, which we have plenty of. It is less about giving in for the sake of our relationship, but rather the respect that makes this process productive and ultimately positive.

How would you both describe your personal, individual style?

Svetlana Ziggel:
I have to adapt my style to my working and family environments. It needs to be casual on a daily basis. My style is classic, chic but comfortable. This also gives me the opportunity to find some distance from the fashion business even though I enjoy wearing PLAKINGER a lot. I love mixing our pieces with either casual wear on a daily basis, or dressing it up with my vintage pieces or pieces from other designers whenever there is an occasion.

Galina Plakinger:
My style is versatile. I want to feel comfortable when I am in the atelier, but I might need to be ready for the next client meeting quickly as I still do my bespoke tailoring. I got used to mix and matching comfortable basics with more sophisticated separates like a blazer or a statement coat. I also love wearing PLAKINGER as it reflects so much of our taste and design philosophy; these pieces are emotionally as important to me as those that I sewed when I was younger.

Your line is so luxurious, sharing the same fabric suppliers as Dior, Chanel and Burberry but still keeping the collection at a reasonable price point. The collection is also 100% handmade in your atelier in Germany and produced in limited quantities. In such an age of fast fashion how important is this quality to you and how did you manage to avoid the temptation of mass production and lesser quality material?

Galina Plakinger:
Quality is in PLAKINGER’s DNA. It will always be because we decided to create a luxurious and timeless line. This might sound anachronistic in a world where fast fashion dictates the market. But there are women out there who are looking for haute couture quality and pieces that they will be able to pass on to their daughter later on. PLAKINGER is an heritage. We don’t have the pressure of huge marketing budgets which need to be funded through mass production. So we are at an advantage to provide exclusive garments. We do so in a very sensitive manner. We create garments for a lifetime and in limited editions. We don’t compromise. This is our philosophy.

How would you describe PLAKINGER in one sentence?

Galina Plakinger:
Sensual and strong with a cosmopolitan elegance, PLAKINGER`s collections are designed to accompany confident women in perfect style.

I love that you also do children’s clothing! When did you begin doing the children’s line and how did the idea of beginning this collection come about? Was it a request from your customer?

Svetlana Ziggel:
I have a little girl myself and we made the very first pieces for her. Nonetheless, we had some mothers as our clients who wanted their daughters to wear matching dresses. The reactions were very positive as we used the same quality standards regarding fit, design and fabrics as in the main women collection. When we started selling in China, offering a matching mother-and-daughter line was an idea that came up pretty quickly. We take a lot of pleasure designing girlswear, the luxurious quality is the same but can be more playful with the cuts and details.

I would love to talk about the expansion of your company into China. Can you tell me more about how long it took to open up your first store there and how the partnership with the Chinese luxury group came about?

Svetlana Ziggel:
We opened our first flagship store in China in December last year. We received the support of a Chinese luxury group that completely fell in love with our clothes. The Chinese market is very important so we were very grateful for the opportunity. Our PR and sales agent lives in China – although she is French – and thus she knows the local market. When she was approached by this group it all went very fast and within a couple of months we started selling in China, firstly in their concept stores, but thereafter also in our first flagship store.

Do you see a difference in your European customer to your Chinese customer? Do you think there is a difference in the way they shop or style themselves?

Galina Plakinger:
Chinese women are much more open to buying new brands and designs. The way they dress really define who they are. Also, in China customers take more pleasure and appreciation in shopping and enjoying luxury. We are very happy with our Chinese endeavours. We can’t wait to showcase our new collections to our Chinese fanbase.

You recently shot your Autumn-Winter 16/17 in the Shanghai Waldorf Astoria on the Bund, what made you decide to shoot there and what did you think of Shanghai? Did it give you any inspirations for your next collection?

Svetlana Ziggel:
We are art deco lovers so shooting at the Waldorf Astoria on the Bund was perfect for us. The Waldorf, his story and heritage are very inspiring and go very well with our image. Our clientele can appreciate the vibes of the past era that are apparent everywhere in the hotel. It’s refined, chic and so cozy. Shanghai is quite unique, so many people from different backgrounds helped shape this city. The Former French Concession is awesome .With the trees, it feels like a Parisian village. We saw people wearing their pyjamas outside. We will definitely incorporate this Shanghainese laid-back atmosphere in our next collection.

The inspiration behind the Autumn-Winter 16/17 collection was Jerry Hall. What was it about her that inspired this collection?

Svetlana Ziggel:
Our last collection was inspired by the iconic love story between Jerry Hall and Mick Jagger. This “rock’n’roll chic” collection is a tribute to the splendid vibes of the 1970s. Jerry Hall is the perfect muse. She embodies the contrast between coziness and formal elegance, minimalist androgynous style and cosmopolitan edge… Just remember how amazing she looked in a strong pantsuit ! She was also equally feminine wearing a dress.

What else inspires you both?

Svetlana Plakinger:
I take a lot of my inspiration from travelling. I like experiencing a new culture, a new world where different rules of taste and aesthetics apply. Just think about how different such journeys feel with the local food, flavours, colours and sounds.

Galina Plakinger:
I often feel like a commuter between two different worlds of taste. As I was born in the former Soviet Union, my taste has started its journey in a different culture and society. I embrace the diverse influences that you can see in today’s world and while living in Europe I enjoy different taste and aesthetics.

What other designers do you look up to?

Galina Plakinger:
I love the work of Josep Font for Delpozo. I followed each of his collections since he stepped in as creative director. The amazing details, the construction of cuts and the play with volume, the colour palette and the extraordinariness of each collection are fascinating.

Svetlana Ziggel:
I really like the work of Raf Simons for Dior and his last collection for Jil Sander. The play on textures and the selection of fabrics, and his approach to contemporary fashion are highly inspiring.

You have already accomplished so much with PLAKINGER with international stores and recognition. What else do you hope to achieve with PLAKINGER and where would you like to see the company in ten years from now?

Svetlana Ziggel:
We are very happy and grateful for what we have achieved already and the opportunity to jointly develop fashion in our current set up for our clients and the pleasure that we can hopefully offer them.We would like to further complete PLAKINGER with additional accessories, bags or maybe even shoes. And of course looking into our future, we would love to successfully grow the label with carefully selected high-end stockists worldwide.

Where else internationally do you hope to open up stores in the future?

Svetlana Ziggel:
We have a good retail network in the Middle East so we are targeting the Asian market now. We would like to further expand PLAKINGER in China and Hong Kong; Beijing would be nice as we have more and more requests from private clients there.

For more information on PLAKINGER visit:
PLAKINGER ONLINE
PLAKINGER INSTAGRAM

All photo credits: PLAKINGER

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RAF SIMONS NAMED CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER FOR CALVIN KLEIN

8/6/2016

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Calvin Klein is certainly on a mission of reinvention. In 2013, Calvin Klein Jeans and Calvin Klein underwear were both bought back by the company. In addition, in April of this year the two designers who had been overseeing the Calvin Klein Collection were fired.

Perhaps the biggest change for the Calvin Klein brand however has just happened. As of three days ago, the previous Creative Director of both Christian Dior and Jill Sander's, Raf Simons, has been announced as Calvin Klein's new Chief Creative Officer. Simons is set to take all of Calvin Klein's brands over and stream line them. This is quite an undertaking as there are several brands under the Calvin Klein brand including Calvin Klein Collection, Calvin Klein Platinum, Calvin Klein, Calvin Klein Jeans, Calvin Klein Underwear, and Calvin Klein Home.

This will be the first time all of the brands will be in the control of one person since 2002, when Klein himself left after selling the company to American clothing company Phillips-Van Heusen. Klein is evidently pleased with this step. Quoted as saying they had done what he had hoped they would do, which is essentially to finally replace him. To have someone who can come in and have a singular vision for the brand going forward which the company hasn't seen since he left.

It will be interesting to see what rebranding Calvin Klein takes on after Simons takes over. Calvin Klein have long been known to push their brand with sexy and edgy commercials that over the years has seen a 15 year old Brooke Shields front a campaign, the now infamous Kate Moss and Mark Wahlberg campaign and more recently, famous Italian blogger, Chiara Ferragni and Kendal Jenner pose for the brand, always with an edge of sex and provocation.

The famous Calvin Klein campaign that Kate Moss did with Mark Wahlberg. Kate was just 16 years old. Moss has since said this campaign made her almost suffer 'a nervous breakdown'
Photo credit: Calvin Klein

Brooke Shields for Calvin Klein 1980 campaign, Shields was just 15 years old.
Photo credit: Calvin Klein

Kendal Jenner for Calvin Klein
Photo credit: Calvin Klein

Italian blogger, Chiara Ferragni for Calvin Klein.
Photo credit: Calvin Klein

With Simons coming from the very elegant brand Christian Dior, I can't wait to see what his vision will be for the soon to be reinvented Calvin Klein, and how he will bring the separate brands together.

As Calvin Klein is known for their simplicity in their runway collections, whilst Christian Dior are certainly more lavish but with classic design, I'm curious as to what the changes will be, particularly with their perfume and underwear lines, as both of these product lines are huge driving forces behind Calvin Klein sales.

Despite somewhat of a presence of their higher-end collections making appearances on the red carpet and even Emma Watson wearing a Calvin Klein ensemble to this years Met Gala, this line certainly isn't the big money maker for the brand, in fact the brand has previously admitted these are seen more as a 'marketing expense' on the books to help drive the sales in the other lines.

I cannot see this being the same situation as Simons takes over. As one of the most influential menswear designers for the past twenty years and having come from Dior, I think the runway collections will see a complete overhaul and be much more of a focus for the brand. I'd certainly like to see this happen, and it seems like the opportune time to really elevate the runway collections and make them more of a profitable section of the company.

Raf Simons isn't the only one to be joining the Calvin Klein family. This week it was also announced that Raf Simons' trusted studio director at Dior, Pieter Mulier, will also be a new addition to Calvin Klein, coming on as Creative Director and will both manage the design team and execute Simons vision going forward. I can't wait to see what they create. Simons first collection with Calvin Klein is due to debut this fall of 2017.

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CHINESE VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT'S FOR HER!

8/5/2016

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Photo credit: Luc Belaire.

Whether your partner is asking for gift ideas to buy you this Chinese Valentine’s day and you are looking for inspiration to add to that wish list, or even if you are planning to blow off the conventional Valentine’s Day altogether and have a fun night in with friends or just treat yourself with a new piece of jewelry this week, here are some great products you should check out now!

If you’re looking to have a romantic meal with your loved one, or perhaps a night in with your girlfriends and a bottle of wine, look no further than Luc Belaire. Available in Rose and Brut, this popular French sparkling wine brand tastes amazing and is sure to add a little extra fizz to your night! Available at Luc Belaire

Photo credit: Luc Belaire.

With a mix of east meets west, Nocturne make incredible handmade jewelry that will be sure to turn heads. I’ve been a fan for sometime now and whenever I wear one of their stunning pieces, someone always asks me where it’s from, guaranteed! Founded by Claudine Bertinotti Lenoble and with Catherine Howkings at the helm, Nocturne make statement piece that truly make an outfit. They are consistently striking with their mix of color, and use of materials and textures, and instantly elevate any outfit.

So easily worn with a plain white T-shirt / blouse, and jeans or with a summer maxi dress for the day, or added to a LBD for the evening, it’s hard to find a situation you can’t wear one of their pieces. Stand out yet effortless, and versatile enough for day or night they truly make your outfit feel special whenever you add a piece of Nocturne to it.

For more information on Nocturne and their stockists visit: www.nocturne.co.uk.

Stacy Fan wearing Nocturne Tribal Necklace in Harper's Bazaar, China.

Nocturne Florence Necklace AW16 Prefall collection

Nocturne SS16 Resort collection

Are you fan of technology and jewelry? Then this will definitely be a piece you are sure to love! Ringly has come up with wearable technology that will ensure you never miss an important message or phone call and look amazing in the process. Available in both rings and bracelets, Ringly connects to your phone via Bluetooth and lets you receive customized notifications through vibration and a subtle light on the side of the ring / bracelet. Below are my two top picks! Available at Ringly, Bloomingdales's Neiman Marcus Urban Outfitters. Retails from approx $195.00

Ringly daydream moodstone ring

Rendezvous, Labradorite bracelet

STILL DREAMING: THE ULTIMATE CUFF

In love with your Apple Watch but none of the straps that you can get to go with it? Feeling that endless struggle of making tecnology fashionable? Well you're in luck! These cuffs will have people questioning whether you're wearing a piece of jewelry or an Apple Watch. Ready to dress up any outfit, this awesome cuff comes in three style and a selection of hardware. Whether you're a silver, gold, rose gold or even a fan of a black cuff, founder Anne Zacharias and partner and fellow designer Kayla have got you covered. Personally I'm lusting after the rose gold Diana (below) They're so pretty you might even consider investing in the Apple watch just so you have an excuse to get one of these beauties! They even ship worldwide. Prices from $149-$169 and are available at The Ultimate Cuff

The Diana: Rose Gold plated

The Cleo: Black Rhodium

The Cleo: Silver Rhodium

The Coco - Rose Gold Plated

The Diana - Black Rhodium

Photo credit: The Ultimate Cuff.

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GIFT IDEAS FOR CHINESE VALENTINE'S DAY!

8/4/2016

4 Comments

Photo credit and model: George Chang.

With Chinese Valentine's day just around the corner, if you haven’t had time or are stumped as to what to buy your loved one this year, fear not! Take a look at a few ideas below. And if you're not celebrating Chinese Valentine's Day, why not check out the gift ideas anyway for future birthdays, or even just as a surprise gift!

Inspired by a desire to mix high fashion with function, Sebastian Cruz Couture was born. Using only the highest quality of materials, these fashionable pocket squares will elevate any mans look. Available in array of colors at Sebastian Cruz Couture there are so many to choose from, however there are a limited number available of each to ensure that the pocket square you purchase stays unique to him. Below are my top two picks to buy this year that will have him looking sharp all year round! (Sebastian Cruz Couture ship for a flat fee of $25 anywhere in the world and it takes just 3-5 days, arriving in luxe packaging making it the ideal gift!)

Black Raso with Yellow Gold Flake Signature Border

Black Raso with Red Diamond Flake Signature Border

What better time to give your man a gift he can use everyday than on Chinese Valentine's Day? These stunning wallets are just the ticket! No two of their wallets are the same as each one is crafted using French calfskin and then carefully finished and colored by hand, the result? A beautiful wallet with a truly unique finish. Below is a selection from their incredible collection. Items retail from $165.00- $420.00
To purchase or find more information about this wonderful company visit: www.dalembert.com.

Above: A selection of D'ALEMBERT's collection

DANIEL WELLINGTON WATCHES

If your man has been looking to update or add a new piece of jewelry to his collection this year, now would be a great time to purchase him a new watch to update his look. Daniel Wellington has an extensive collection of watches for both men and women that will add classic elegance to any look. You could even go for his and hers watches!

Price for the menswear piece - $299. For more information visit www.danielwellington.com
Use code: EURASIAN_VOGUE at checkout to receive 15% off.

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"fASHION IS A LANGUAGE OF ITS OWN... LET'S TALK" EURASIAN VOGUE

INTERVIEW WITH DESIGNER HEEJIN KIM OF KIMMY J #CONCEPTKOREA part 4

INTERVIEW WITH GREEDILOUS DESIGNER YOUNHEE PARK #CONCEPTKOREA part 3

INTERVIEW WITH DESIGNER YOHAN KIM OF YOHANIX #CONCEPTKOREA PART2

CONCEPT KOREA: INTERVIEW WITH PROJECT MANAGER, MS. JI KYEONG HWA

PLAKINGER : THE INTERVIEW

RAF SIMONS NAMED CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER FOR CALVIN KLEIN

CHINESE VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT'S FOR HER!

STILL DREAMING: THE ULTIMATE CUFF

GIFT IDEAS FOR CHINESE VALENTINE'S DAY!

DANIEL WELLINGTON WATCHES

By
STACY FAN

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"fASHION IS A LANGUAGE OF ITS OWN... LET'S TALK" EURASIAN VOGUE

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