2015 Fashion Show designer spotlight: Kai by Yng Chern

I had the chance to sit down and chat with emerging designer Yng Chern about her new collection, as well as her inspirations and plans for the future.

Chern is a final-year fashion student at Kwantlen Polytechnic University from Bloemfontein, South Africa. Encouragement from her high-school textiles teacher inspired her to pursue an interest in sewing and outerwear, which led her to KPU’s program.

After spending a semester in Helsinki, Finland, last year, she developed a deep interest in the ethical and social aspects of the fashion industry. With this combination of ideas, passions and a unique philosophy of design, Chern has created Kai, a outdoor apparel line for women.

Kai will be unveiled at the 2015 Fashion Show, presented by Tamoda Apparel, on April 9 at the River Rock Casino. Thirty-eight other lines by KPU fashion design and technology students will also be showcased. For event details, visit kpu.ca/2015fashionshow, or follow @kpu_theshow on Twitter and @theshow2015 on Instagram.

Lizzie Scott: Can you describe your collection?

Yng Chern: Kai focuses on the roots of outdoor adventure. The clothing that will be featured at the show uses traditional outdoor fabrics such as felted and boiled wool and moleskin. The pragmatic simplicity of the garments is highlighted by an emphasis on function and fit, allowing the wearer to truly enjoy nature without feeling disconnected by sport-specific gear. 

LS: What was the inspiration behind Kai? 

YC: I find that a lot of women seek apparel details and silhouettes that are often featured in men’s clothing but cannot be found in women’s. Most women who seek these features often compensate by purchasing men’s outdoor wear, but they sacrifice fit in doing so. My primary inspiration for this collection is the women who aren’t seeking overtly feminine clothing.

LS: Describe your creative process. 

YC: My favourite part of fashion design is the problem solving that the designer undertakes. I love researching. After discovering a target market, I spend the most time on research and developing real personalities for my niche market. It’s important for me to create real solutions for actual people.

LS: What have you learned at KPU?

YC: I’ve learned how to appreciate the fundamentals of design, and I’ve learned how to consider every aspect of the design process when I’m creating a collection. When I’m designing clothes, I’m considering the realities of manufacturing the garment, or the expectations of a customer.

LS: What are your plans for graduation?

YC: I would like to carve my own career path in my chosen field of design, but after travel though. Always after travel.