I mentioned in a previous post the "Extreme of Optical Effect" collection by young fashion designer and Central Saint Martins graduate Yong Kyun Shin.
In that specific post I analysed his intricately complex designs and 3D elements in connection with the optical illusions in Piranesi's drawings and etchings.
The designer will be soon be in Milan to showcase his creations, so let's hear more from him to discover his inspirations and work.
How did you feel about getting the Fashion Special Prize at the latest ITS competition?
Yong Kyun Shin: It was amazing. The whole ITS#9 experience was incredible. There were many talented designers and it was very competitive, so I'm even happier I was among the winners of this edition. I met a lot of nice people who became my friends and I got a lot of attention from the media and this gave me the chance of getting involved in different projects. Taking part in the competition was definitely a good way to introduce myself to some of the main players in the fashion industry.
Was becoming a fashion designer what you always wanted to do in your life?
Yong Kyun Shin: I've been drawing since I was 3 years old. It was the only thing I could do better than anyone else. I still love drawing and creating beautiful things that are not necessarily fashion-related. I love for example painting, sculpting, taking photographs or making films. I studied Fine Art for a long time, then, one day, my father who owns a hair accessory company in Korea suggested me to redirect my passion for art into fashion design. He must have seen my talent for fashion earlier than me, so I enrolled at London’s Central Saint Martins. Superficially, Art and Fashion Design seem to be in the same field, but they are different, yet I feel my creations stand in the middle.
What inspires your designs?
Yong Kyun Shin: I carefully observe everything around me, from people to objects, streets, films, books and architecture. I then filter all these inspirations through my thoughts and transfer them into my drawings.
What is the main theme behind your latest collection “Extreme of Optical Effect”?
Yong Kyun Shin: This collection was inspired from the continual patterns in optical art. The latter is based on repetitive patterns and contrasting colours such as black and white, but I wanted to design it using bright contrasting colours. The different techniques employed in this collection helped me creating a variety of details. I focus a lot on details, as I think they are very important. Different tiny details form one beautiful design. For example, I found I could create amazing effects using the backside of hair clips and these effects turned into one essential part of my collection.
What’s your favourite piece from your latest collection?
Yong Kyun Shin: The black leather jacket matched with the dress. It took longer than any other piece and it perfectly summarises my principles since the little details and tight body conscious silhouette create a sharp and well-balanced design characterised by a perfect harmony of forms.
Who are your favourite designers?
Yong Kyun Shin: I like a lot Viktor & Rolf: I love their creativity, designs, catwalk shows and the way they surprise us with their presentations.
You come from Korea, what’s the fashion scene like over there?
Yong Kyun Shin: In Korea, fashion is mainly dominated by High Street and luxury brands, so there is a small market for young up-and-coming designers. Yet Korean people are very image-conscious and are discovering cutting edge designers. I think a lot of talented Korean designers like me have a huge responsibility since we must try and create great designs and convince people through them to become more experimental.
Would you ever work on a film as costume designer?
Yong Kyun Shin: I haven’t done costume design for film but I would love to do it! That would be amazing as it would allow me to give free rein to my fantasy!
What are you working on at present?
Yong Kyun Shin: I’m working for a company in London as a print designer. They launched a small label with my name on last year and the first season was successful, since my drawings go rather well with their brand concept. Now I’m working on the second collection for them. I can tell you it will focus on beautiful detailed drawings and lots of colours. I love working on collaborations, as you learn a lot in the process and it's also exciting to see my designs being produced on a big scale.
Will you be at any fashion show in Europe in the next few months?
Yong Kyun Shin: I’ll be exhibiting my portfolio in Milan at Palazzo Morando from 22nd September. I’m so excited about this opportunity since I’m sure I’ll be able to meet some nice people and see amazing designs.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
Yong Kyun Shin: Hopefully, I’ll be working on my own label, surrounded by people I love. I’ll probably be based in London. That’s the only thing I’m dreaming about now. I know I’ll have to work hard to do it, but that doesn't scare me!
All images courtesy of Yong Kyun Shin.
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