CURATOR:

https://www.instagram.com/ellavaughnjohnson/

There is something about the work of Jolin Lin that is playful yet sophisticated, whimsical fabrics and anomalous shapes take the serious edge off the muted tones and somber expressions.

One of my favorite pieces produced by Lin is Look 4 from her collection: “Deconstructing Norms”. The piece in question is a baby pink asymmetric knit top, embellished all over with a blue tear drop-like yarn pattern. Paired with a sort of pink yarn brief, and most remarkably, very large pink boots. Think of MSCHF boots if they were light pink UGGs. Surely the title “Deconstructing Norms” refers to Lins's use of non-humanoid shapes to destroy the conventional standard of beauty and the idea of “normal” but in doing so Lin also creates an array of whimsical fantasies and fascinating designs.

Slightly less playful, but just as captivating is Look 2  also from Lin's “Deconstructing Norms” collection, inspired by Axel Johann Salto’s ceramic Jacket- a piece by the early 20th-century Danish ceramist. Look 2 is a slick black neoprene dress with a singular front zip, full-length sleeves, and a high neck. Layered under a puffy textured silver shawl wrapped around the model's back and shoulders. The shawl is a hand-painted silver foil which gives it the same effects as an aged vase.

“Living Beyond Borders” taps into Lins more somber side, constructed out of primarily black fabrics and in much contrast to Lins's collection “The Game of Survival”- an extremely whimsical collection made from a hodgepodge of materials and prints. As a designer, Lin showcases a wide variety of styles and executes them in eccentric shapes and colors that captivate viewers' attention.

ARTIST: https://www.instagram.com/jolinlin_/

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Alex Jiang

https://www.instagram.com/jolinlin_/

KUYIHAO / Elvis Ku 

https://www.instagram.com/kuyihao/

 Where are you from?

Taiwan, in a city called Taoyuan

 What encouraged you to pursue design as a career?

My journey towards pursuing a career in design was greatly influenced by my grandmother. She used to work as a home tailoring, and when I was a child, I often found myself sitting right beside her as she worked her magic. I would immerse myself in the world of fabrics, patterns, and enticing textures. Those experiences deeply resonated with me, igniting a passion for hands-on creativity. As I grew, I realized that design was my path to explore and bring to life beautiful things.

How would you describe your style as a designer?

My style as a designer can be best described as a fusion of minimalist aesthetic and artisanal craftsmanship, with a strong emphasis on functionality.

What are some of the key inspirations that influence your work?

My creative journey draws inspiration from two main sources. Firstly, contemporary artists, particularly those working with ceramics and sculptures. The textures and unconventional shapes they craft influenced my work. This pushes me to experiment with unique fabric manipulations and constructions in my designs.

Secondly, the diverse ethnicities within my homeland, Taiwan. The vibrant blend of cultures, traditions, and histories celebrate inclusivity and honor our shared heritage.

How did your experience in (school/interning) forge your progression as a designer?

Fashion schools allowed me to interact with various materials, styles and the most important, make lots of mistakes. This inspired me to experiment and push my boundaries. With the guidance and mentorship from professionals, I not only gained a deeper appreciation for the industry but also unearthed my own distinctive design identity.

What excites you about fashion?

What excites me about fashion is its power to for self- expression and storytelling. It's about how each piece becomes a vehicle to communicate who we are, what we believe in, and how we perceive the world. Fashion allows people to channel imagination and craft something that resonates deeply with people; evoke emotions, spark conversations, and even challenge societal norms.

If you could dress anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

If I had the privilege to dress anyone in the world, I would choose Benedetta Barzini. Her commitment to addressing the fashion industry's impact on women and her strong advocacy for sustainable fashion and consumerism resonate deeply with my design philosophy. Dressing someone like Barzini would be an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about responsible fashion.

We are seeing a revolution in the way fashion is done. For example, brands are increasingly focused on digital mediums to share their work as a result of the pandemic. What is something specific you would change about the industry?

 I believe a crucial transformation that the fashion industry needs to undergo is an embrace of sustainability and ethical practices, from materials and manufacturing to distribution and consumer behavior. Transparent supply chain disclosures, highlighting fair labor and safe working conditions, empower consumers to make informed choices. Digital platforms can be instrumental in driving change.

What are the ways you are tackling sustainability as a brand, and how does that fit into your creative process?

In terms of sustainability, I've embraced several methods to weave eco-consciousness into my brand's identity. One of the key ways I address this is by prioritizing the use of recycled fabrics. By sourcing and incorporating these materials into my designs, I not only reduce the demand for new resources but also contribute to minimizing waste. Through experimentation, I give new life to these textiles. In addition to recycled fabrics, I also incorporate zero-waste pattern making and draping techniques. This approach allows me to optimize the use of materials, ensuring that every inch of fabric finds purpose in the final design.