Having only recently familiarized myself with fashion designers outside of the typical commercial brands, I was unaware of Concept Korea until last season, so you could imagine my surprise find that they’re celebrating ten years (and their twenty-first season) this year. They return for the fall/winter season of New York Fashion Week, with designs that are as impressive (and in some cases, even more impressive) than the previous season. I expected nothing less than magnificent, and that is exactly what designers LIE, IIESI, and Leyii brought to their presentation at Spring Studio. Concept Korea are the fashion collective that showcases emerging Korean designers internationally, and represents some of the best designers to come out of that glorious nation.

LIE

London during the 1960’s was the main inspiration for LIE’s FW20 collection. Through combinations of bold and sculptural shapes contrasted against organic, feminine lines as well as influential styling of the working class Rude Boys movement; designer Chung Chung Lee has created dynamic looks that are reminiscent of post-industrial architecture of London along with the exciting developments in fashion during that time.   

This season, LIE continues to explore its modern sportswear aesthetics, featuring a range of oversized coats, jackets, and blouses with architectural shoulders combined with LIE’s signature tailoring and innovative fabric combinations. The structured pieces beautifully compliment the detailed flowing silhouettes of dresses, skirts, and trousers in bold accent colors against the rich urban earth tones, creating an artistic and avant-garde statement.   

LIE collaborated with FIXXAT handbags to translate collection’s fluid architectural theme into structured statement bags with a kiss of femininity.

Show Credits:

               Stylist – Delphine Danhier

               Shoes – Schutz and Dr. Martens

               Hats - FIXXAT

IISE

The FW20 collection focuses on the core design principles of IISE: symmetry, balance, and proportion. Derived from the pillars of traditional Korean architecture and furniture design, these philosophies emphasized not only a functional purpose for each work but also a sense of peace it would bring to a space it occupies. This collection showcases these concepts through use of paneling and symmetrical lines, highlighting a unique mixture of fabrics and customized metallic hardware. The FW20 collection embodies these principles, adopting them into the core identity of the IISE aesthetic.

Show Credits:

               Stylist – Matthew Henson

Leyii

At its core, Yoga is a spiritual practice connecting the body and mind. Combining activewear and mindfulness, the FW20 collection highlights the foundation of balance. Seamless organic silhouettes and curved line shapes come together creating figure-flattering designs.

Show Credits:

               Stylist – Zara Zachrisson

               Shoes – Shoespa

All Images Courtesy of Lecca Photography. Find more Concept Korea at their site, follow Concept Korea at Facebook.