ABOUT

SHINKA: Japanese for 'Evolution', is inspired by the old tale of the Koi Carp swimming up the waterfall. Rewarded by the Gods for determination, it evolves into a beautiful Dragon. Motivated by this story, I focused my collection on traditional Japanese garments. Many of them, for example, the Kimono, were very similar for males and females. The culture is fascinating and often the garments were adorned with beautiful prints that were rich with meaning. During this project, have developed a love of making bright and exciting prints which are illustrated through my collection.

I believe the Fashion industry is ready to evolve to the next step of removing Gender binary constricting elements to how clothing design and marketing. Shinka has a double meaning as it also relates to the evolution of traditional garments into streetwear pieces, with encouraging nods to heritage. All the garments in the collection do not have any restrictive fit elements, such as zips. Ties and elastic fastenings were utilised instead, this is to ensure they are fully adjustable inclusive for anyone who wants to wear them.