What's your design philosophy?
I believe fashion is a form of language. In any human interaction, we notice a person's clothing before we even exchange words. In some cases, fashion can be more powerful than speech. Through my brand, NUYH NEWYORK, I aim to help people express the inner thoughts and feelings that often remain hidden beneath the surface.
Who are your design influences?
I draw inspiration from a wide range of arts and materials. While I strive to keep my concept cohesive, my design influences come from many different sources. Lately, I’ve found architecture—and the science behind it—to be the most fascinating aspect of designing clothes. Exploring Roman architecture, where design and functionality intersect, has significantly enriched both my creative process and collection development.
How do you balance creativity with wearability in your designs?
Fashion can be both a form of art and a medium of functionality. I believe that finding a balance between these two elements is essential to building a strong brand. In my work, I tend to take a more artistic approach when designing collection pieces, using them to tell a cohesive and compelling story—not just as a designer, but as an artist. At the same time, I prioritize functionality in my prêt-à-porter line. I draw from the techniques and concepts developed for my collection pieces, simplify them, and adapt them to create more wearable, functional designs. As a fashion designer, I believe that the ability to harmonize these contrasting aspects—artistry and practicality—is a key strength.
What's your favorite fashion film?
Karl Lagerfeld – “Once Upon a Time…” features striking monochromatic imagery and a powerful use of fashion, making it both visually compelling and deeply inspiring.
How important is collaboration in fashion design?
Collaboration is one of the most important factors in fashion design. The people you choose to work with can significantly influence the outcome of your work—for the better. When I was in school, I used to think of fashion design as a primarily self-centered industry. But my perspective changed as I began working with people from different fields. I discovered that while fashion on its own can be a form of art, it becomes even more powerful when enhanced through collaboration across various mediums.
How do you see the future of fashion?
Considering the rapid pace of development in other industries, I believe fashion will also be part of this technological evolution. In my design process, I use CLO3D to assist with pattern making and fittings. This software has significantly streamlined the garment creation process, saving both time and resources. If tools like this were more widely adopted in the fashion industry, it could lead to reduced waste and greater efficiency. I believe the advancement of artificial intelligence and technology is paving the way for a more sustainable future in fashion as well.
