Sun Ho Kim

Born from the tumultuous spirit of the 80s under South Korea's military regime, this collection offers a poignant reinterpretation of that era through the lens of modern fashion. Drawing inspiration from the 35 policy, it notably positions baseball as a central theme, with the designer embracing baseball as a symbol of resistance. Targeted at individuals enamored with sportswear yet yearning for a distinctive and fashionable edge, this line speaks to those who cherish casual wear but resist blending into the mainstream fashion crowd. While deeply rooted in street fashion ethos, the collection incorporates sophisticated pattern-cutting and draping techniques. The unique juxtaposition of casual staples, like the Pique shirt, stands out as one of its defining fea-tures.

Denim, symbolic of South Korea's 80s fashion, plays a significant role, drawing parallels with baseball's American heritage. Leather, inspired by baseball gloves, further enriches the collection's texture palette. While true to its sportswear origins, materials like polyester and nylon are also thoughtfully integrated. Given the characteristics of these materials, the collection is best suited for the FW season.

This line not only commemorates a significant period in South Korea's history but also pushes the boundaries of streetwear, offering wearers both comfort and a rebellious statement.

Expanding on the themes of my pre-collection, my graduation collection delves deeper into textile development and incorporates Western cultural elements to diversify the design aesthetic. Inspired by the intricate lacing details of baseball gloves and cowboy trousers, I have integrated eyelets and lacing into the garments, creating a distinctive and intricate texture. This adds a new layer of craftsmanship and complexity to the col-lection.

To express the 80s filmy texture and vibe, I partnered with a renowned Korean fashion brand known for its hand-dyeing techniques and custom fabric production. Each fabric is unique, crafted by skilled artisans, adding an authentic and bespoke element to every piece. While I aim to use these unique hand-dyed fabrics extensively, I balanced them with other materials to maintain visual interest and avoid monotony.

The collection continues to honor the rebellious spirit and historical significance of the 80s in South Korea, while also embracing the rugged, adventurous ethos of Western culture. This fusion creates a compelling narrative, blending Eastern and Western influences to produce a collection that is both globally relevant and deeply personal. By integrating handcrafted techniques and unique fabrics, this line embodies a commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion, while making a bold statement in the world of contemporary sportswear.

In essence, this collection celebrates the ordinary transformed into the extraordinary, offering wearers a blend of comfort, rebellion, and distinctiveness. It is a testament to the power of fashion as a medium for storytelling and cultural expression.