In the bustling domain of the fashion industry, where trends can be as fleeting as a midsummer’s night dream, Yumu stands as a beacon of timeless beauty and intricate craftsmanship. Delicately balancing the profound wisdom of Eastern Taoist philosophy and the rebellious spirit of Western deconstructive architecture, Yumu crafts pieces that are as much a meditation on the human experience as they are a statement of style.
The mystical allure of Taoism, deeply woven into Yumu’s upbringing, finds an exquisite canvas in her designs. “Eastern Taoist philosophy explores the origins and laws of the world from a cosmic perspective across time and space, emphasizing rationality and austerity,” Yumu shares, describing the philosophical underpinnings that serve as the bedrock of their creations. This spiritual grounding infuses her work, transforming clothing from mere body coverings into a first-layer building for humans, a means of self-expression, and a vessel for the spirit. Yumu’s connection to the art form runs deep, transcending the boundaries of mere design. They step into various roles, sometimes a painter, sometimes a poet, or even a philosopher, creating without constraints and allowing thoughts to roam freely, embodying the Taoist principle of “无为 (wúwéi)”.
As much as Yumu’s designs resonate with Eastern wisdom, they are equally influenced by Western deconstructive architecture, reflecting a rebellious spirit that seeks to balance deconstruction and reconstruction. The creative freedom to explore the tension of different materials and the spaces formed by the human body is what captivates Yumu, a true architect of the human body.
Yumu’s collections hold up a mirror to society, reflecting on the evolution of beauty standards. In a world enthralled by fast fashion and popular culture, Yumu seeks to liberate clothing from the confines of functionality and trends, creating pieces that communicate on a deeper, more philosophical level. “Generation Z is surrounded by fast fashion and popular culture,” Yumu observes, a circumstance that leaves designers with the decision of whether to embrace or resist the prevailing trends. Through her collections, Yumu strives to evoke contemplation and emotion, hoping to create a unique space where fashion can be deeply personal and profoundly expressive.
Delve deeper into Yumu’s designs, and one is met with an arresting engagement with the color black, a hue that embodies many profound concepts, ranging from nothingness to eternity. “Black possesses a kind of freedom that doesn’t care about being noticed; it is the most rebellious of colors,” Yumu reflects. This choice of color offers a quietly assertive strength, allowing for a focus on form, structure, and texture, and inviting viewers to explore the deeper nuances within each piece.
Despite being self-proclaimed as a shy and timid individual, Yumu channels a bold, adventurous spirit in her work, a silent yet powerful statement that transcends verbal communication. Her sensitivity, which might seem like a vulnerability in the real world, becomes a powerful tool in the creative domain, fueling a relentless pursuit of detail and a distinctive creative outlook.
In their captivating “Mirror” collection, Yumu showcases a stunning array of unconventional materials, including reflective mirror paper and safety pin chainmail, creating a sensory experience that is both visual and auditory. This choice of materials, coupled with the art of origami, sets the stage for a modern, futuristic narrative, a dance between tradition and the cutting edge of fashion.
As Yumu continues her journey in the fashion world, she embodies a spirit of courage and determination, inspired by the words of architect Tadao Ando, “You only live once, and if you fail, you can just apologize.” This fearless approach allows them to venture into uncharted territories, creating pieces that push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of fashion design.
Looking towards the future, Yumu envisions a fashion industry enriched by diversity and a return to timeless and classic pieces. Her place in this evolving landscape remains fluid, an adventurous journey driven by a passion for the creative process. “It’s an adventure, and I don’t fixate on the outcome,” Yumu shares, expressing a hope that her work will continue to resonate with individuals around the world, carving out a niche where artistry and philosophy meet in a delicate dance of light and shadow, form and texture, tradition and innovation.
In the dynamic landscape of the fashion industry, Yumu emerges as a powerful voice, crafting narratives that transcend time and trends, creating pieces that are not just clothing, but an exploration of the deeper realms of human existence, a reflection of eternity and timeless beauty.
To see more of Yumu’s work visit their Instagram here.
