Unpacking the possibilities behind wearable objects, Jang’s research began with an object called an ‘air vase’, which is made with paper and laser cutting. Creating a lattice effect, the technique implores a sculptural feel to Jang’s voluminous collection, while also citing the works of Caroline Broadhead, a jewellery artist in the ‘70s – and CSM alumna holding the position of the Jewellery and Textiles Programme Director and BA Jewellery Design Course Leader for almost ten years – exploring the intersection between object and garment. The multi-dimensional structures are a testimony to Jang’s early training growing up, studying ceramics for eight years and attending a specialised creative high school, focused on traditional Korean art. Yet, despite her piqued interest in ceramics throughout her childhood, Jang pinpoints the moment she decided to map her affinity for her collectables onto the runway. “During a foundation class at CSM, I saw the White Show, and felt my heart thump.” In rapture with the silhouettes, the textures, to the production, it marked her first fashion show, and by result the catalyst for her foray into the industry.
“As a knitwear student, I was so sad that I couldn’t use the knit workshop for ideas I’d developed for a long time, so I had to change the knit techniques into crochet.”
Produced under the confines of lockdown, Jang returned home to Korea, and as a result, was forced to reduce the number of looks. “As a knitwear student, I was so sad that I couldn’t use the knit workshop for ideas I’d developed for a long time, so I had to change the knit techniques into crochet.” But in the face of global travesty, Jang found some benevolence, collaborating with her mother on a crochet dress for the collection, something she’d never imagined in London. Despite the unforeseen deviations, the theme behind Jang’s collection is poignant for the period of its creation, boasting zero-waste patterns and sustainable materials, Jang wants her clothes to provide emotional longevity. “I want my designs to make people happy, joyous and know their choice is sustainable; that sustainable fashion is not that difficult and can be fun. Not everyone is interested in fashion, but people wear clothes everyday, so even those who aren’t interested should think about where the clothes are coming from.”