Asia Fashion Collection, supported by Vantan and PARCO CO., LTD, is a platform for emerging East Asian talent. Winners from the Tokyo preliminary debut their collections at NY Fashion Week each Fall/Winter, contributing to the growth of the continent’s promising designers. AFC is dedicated to discovering and nurturing new talent, widening the reach of the fashion industry.
Five brands showcased their pieces on the runway, each with a distinct style and story.
KIYOKA HASE by Kiyoka Hase
Designer Kiyoka Hase, is a Japanese brand originating from Bunka Fashion College. The brand explores the captivating theme ‘NON-FICTION.’ Hase’s collection transcends fashion, envisioning a post-apocalyptic world where individuals navigate an invasion to discover purpose and self-awareness. The theme delves into the cautionary tale of battling external monsters without becoming one. With unique structural designs, mixed materials, and metallics, the collection is a mirror of self-reflection, prompting intriguing questions about the blurred line between fiction and reality. Beyond fashion, ‘FREE YOURSELF’ is the brand’s concept, reflected in functional activewear that blends style with utility—a metaphorical protective suit empowering individuals in their daily battles.
MIARI SHIGETA by Miari Shigeta
Designer Miari Shigeta, originates from Japan and is affiliated with Bunka Fashion College, where Shigeta is currently a fourth-year student. The brand’s inspiration for this collection revolves around the theme ‘CYCLING TRAIL.’ As train travel resumed post Covid-19 outbreak, Shigeta noticed the discomfort of crowded trains and yearned for the freedom of open spaces. The collection, influenced by cycling wear and bicycle elements, depicts the elegance of a girl’s lifted skirt and the glistening water surface through 3D graphics. The pieces had knots and Toul incorporated. MIARI SHIGETA’s brand concept centers on ‘the magic of falling in love with yourself,’ offering a touch of love to active women who shine at gatherings.
Sun Below by Naito Oikawa
The brand Sun Below, led by designer Naito Oikawa, originates from Japan and is associated with the Vantan Design Institute, where Oikawa is currently a student. The brand presented 8 looks for men. The theme is drawn from Oikawa’s contemplative observations during a car ride to the gym, where the pale and deserted stand contrasts with his father’s shining figure, despite its age and wear. This was shown in the muted tones and olive greens throughout the collection. Sun Below’s concept is rooted in boxing, reflecting the designer’s life experiences and ongoing struggles in realizing his goals. Oikawa, a former professional boxer since childhood, retired in 2021 and began his design journey at Vantan in 2022.
RE RHEE by June Bok Rhee and Hyun Jung Joo
RHEE, the collaborative effort of designers June Bok Rhee and Hyun Jung Joo from South Korea, showcased 8 looks. Their theme, ‘The Ripping Essence and Distorted Allure,’ explores the creative process, capturing the essence of dawn air’s whispers and dark breath. It delves into the solitary journey of creation, emphasizing the interdependence inherent in the artistic process. The collection, dedicated to creators worldwide, uses fabrics reflecting diverse emotions with lace, sequins, and leather. The mix of pristine ivory and sophisticated black, accentuated by point colors, symbolizes individual identity. RHEE’s refined designs, reimagined through innovative styling, aim for a harmonious blend of ‘refined luxury and restrained trends.’ Recognized for their work, both designers were awarded the Korea Fashion Award Presidential Prize in 2021.
YAXIN ZONE by Yahsin Chung
The brand YAXIN ZONE is curated by Taiwanese designer Yahsin Chung, an alumna of Brunel University and Parsons School of Design. The theme, ‘TRANSFORMATION,’ follows the previous season’s ‘SOLO DANCE’. The narrative depicts a shift from a pure and radiant swan to an unrestrained black swan, symbolizing an evolution from pristine white to profound black, akin to the oxidation process in music. The outfits in the ‘TRANSFORMATION’ series use tweed, suede, and denim, showcasing YAXIN ZONE’s signature juxtaposition technique. Notably, the series supports the local textile industry by incorporating fabrics manufactured in Taiwan. YAXIN ZONE’s brand concept revolves around its name, which symbolizes generations X, Y, and Z and expressing the potential for growth and transcendence within these frames. Inspired by diverse art forms, the brand translates emotions and exploratory art nature into garments.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
