We sat down with Jane Hong, an emerging South Korean designer and recent graduate of Bunka Fashion University in Tokyo, to discuss her innovative brand ‘Par Jane.’ Hong’s recent collection, ‘Oriental Painting in the West,’ showcases a stunning blend of Eastern and Western aesthetics, solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer in the fashion industry. In our conversation, we delved into the inspirations and techniques behind her work, as well as her commitment to sustainable practices and her competitiveness in the commercial field.
Growing up, Hong was deeply influenced by her grandfather, a renowned oriental painter in South Korea. Their conversations about art and tradition inspired her to create a unique fusion of Korean traditional beauty and Western elegance.
“I wanted to express the art in which Korean traditional beauty and Western beauty coexist through costumes,”
To achieve this, Hong embarked on a journey of discovery, visiting various temples with her grandfather to study traditional patterns and draping techniques. This immersive experience allowed her to hone her skills and create designs that truly embody her vision of a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western art.
‘Oriental Painting in the West’ is the culmination of Hong’s extensive research and dedication to her craft. The collection showcases a variety of techniques, including intricate draping, digital textile printing, and exquisite beadwork. Hong’s attention to detail is evident in every piece, as she studied the silhouette, the blooming process, and the characteristics of flowers in depth to capture their essence in her designs.
“The most important factor in costume production is the silhouette that comes out when the human body and clothes meet,” Hong says. To achieve the perfect silhouette, she meticulously studied women’s anatomy and physical characteristics, allowing her to create garments that flow smoothly and elegantly over the body. The result is a breathtaking collection of pieces that encapsulate the beauty of blooming flowers, the delicate textures of petals, and the grace of their natural curves.
Hong’s choice of materials further enhances the elegance of her designs. She primarily used organza and silk fabrics for their ability to create subtle, elegant, and intense silhouettes depending on the angle. “The transparent and clear impression creates an elegant mood and brings out harmonious beauty,” she notes. As an advocate for sustainability in fashion, Hong also employed digital textile printing and eco-friendly achromatic bead crafts in her creations.
A true artist at heart, Hong’s work is deeply personal, and she emphasizes the importance of her own identity in every piece she creates. “There is nothing that is not important, such as material, pattern, detail, and color,” she says. “I value my own identity that I can feel, ‘It is Jane Hong.'”
Hong’s passion for haute couture and its long-standing history is evident in her unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. As a designer, her goal is to continue developing her own unique style while upholding the important constancy of haute couture. “I hope that each of my works will showcase the elegant aesthetics that can be felt in the human body, presenting beautifully reinterpreted works with my own artistry,” she says.
As a testament to her versatility and competitiveness in the commercial field, Hong’s brand encompasses a Ready-To-Wear Line, Prêt-à-Porter BOUTIQUE Line, Haute Couture Line, and a custom-made Line. This diverse portfolio allows her to balance the commercial aspects of fashion design with her personal artistic vision and philosophy.
Hong’s deep affection for flowers inspired her to create the ‘Oriental Painting in the West’ collection. “I tried to put beauty in my outfit because every moment when the flowers started to bloom and start to wither was beautiful,” she shared.
Hong’s dedication to her craft has led her to explore a variety of artistic techniques, materials, and processes in her pursuit of the perfect fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics. Her innovative designs are a testament to her enterprising spirit and her desire to push the boundaries of fashion.
As she continues to challenge the status quo and reimagine the world of haute couture, Hong is paving the way for a new generation of designers who are unafraid to defy convention and explore uncharted artistic territory. Her work is a testament to her enterprising spirit and her desire to make a lasting impact on the fashion industry.
With her unique approach to blending Eastern and Western aesthetics, Jane Hong and her brand ‘Par Jane’ are poised to make a significant impact on the fashion world. As she continues to refine her craft and explore new artistic avenues, fashion enthusiasts and students alike will undoubtedly be eager to follow her journey and draw inspiration from her groundbreaking designs.
For those who want to keep up with Hong’s latest creations and updates, be sure to visit her Instagram account here and her website here.
