裴勇俊培育韩流明星设计家？[朝鲜日报]2009年10月26日(星期一)上午09:前往21街|电子邮件|印刷




是最近设计家'i岛夷'种以韩流明星浮起这样的后门(后听的效果)。 正在是上次落下了幕的用首尔 流行 周被关注了的设计家之一。 有在伦敦 中央 分 马丁毕业后法国活动已经在海外受到了好评的以前的经历这样以韩流明星急浮上了事据说分别有原因。 确实'裴勇俊'是积蓄。 因为是作为确实裴勇俊的前女朋友驱了名的电影导演李思江segan lee父母姐姐。

是要说裴勇俊来返回了食堂,美发厅,被成为更加袜子店也全部'旅游路线'的日本爱好者们她的名字一点点知们开始做的。 所说的与进行特别i·萨根先生最近电缆 频道'开·风格的'这里&记号这个程序'裴勇俊前女朋友'的修饰语占据检索名次上位圈也做了。 对这个DoiiLee与李思江segan lee一起也演出'美女姊妹'的关心基于越发高涨了。

说这个DoiiLee为首尔,新寺洞(shinsadon)林荫树的道营运的店铺也屡次有日本爱好者们以旅游访问的事,是此次的流行 周的时候日本爱好者们找寻她的展览也做了这样的后门(后听的效果)。 这个Doii Lee是对这样的关心害羞这样的反应。 为了是无论如何也是设计家看'裴勇俊'替代用自己的衣服被记请求吧。 对以大邱(大丘)有钱人的家女儿没有钱担心少爷使用闻名了这样的传言就也拒绝了。 这个doi先生为兆日元明确了自己的话。





我的名字Doii Lee． 担当时装设计师这个职业热情工作的大韩民国的年轻人弟弟(妹妹)是李思江segan lee这个电影导演。 我们是激烈地穿过自己的道的是姊妹朋友。

对于我们的姊妹走这样稍微特别的道的地方爸爸的影响好象大。 一起不能,一起在与必须度过还在医学道路学校忙的时间的爸爸年幼的时期多的时间的时间之间经常我们挨近书喜好再能培育想象力指导了的想起。 像对领域不论不有偏见就那样接受事物和文化有多种多样的经验一样地被努力了。 好象对那个影响现在我们的姊妹为creative重要的事作的根干不成。

我有充分的可能性的话促进自己上了留学道。 可是像我相信我一样地不是大家我好意性的事。 想追问是不是有着因为我是黑的头黄色的皮肤东洋人正确不能理解他们的情趣这样的偏见寻问的程度严重的时间也多。 迎接IMF大家是难的状况的也没有到家打开手的事不久。 一边听不知不觉你们大家看我的名字的这样的误写(不认输)咬紧牙齿过于浓艳的人声忍耐一边忍受了留学时代。 比是是让把相信我被支援了的父母,并且姐姐作为卷模特儿弟弟(妹妹)失望真的死讨厌事缘故都。


2002年毕业伦敦 中央 分 马丁大学在7个月和文件夹制造里(上)吊垂打了Dior,jan·杆·gorutie,安东尼奥 marasu,优美地日元gabbana,维维安 韦斯特伍德的门。 那个中从Dior的个人品牌的maison kariano最最初接受联络,变得有在那里工作的机会。 知道通过这个couturier的质量和历史有多高(贵)深的再稍微由于我的事不能吸收kenzo转移多的事事还作为遗憾残留着。

但是因为kenzo的新的美术指导安东尼奥 marasu的最初 助手工作能这样的事比什么都富有魅力从那个接受了进公司劝诱的时候kenzo转移了。 认可我的能力的美术指导和不久工作了的经验培育了作为设计家自信,想依次用我的名字发出品牌到那样的中扩大只我设计这样的欲望变得深。

终于2006年10月连成一排法国,巴黎 流行周的间内名ronchi做了<doi 帕里斯 Doii Paris>。 被海外shorumunyon的成果鼓励,终于2009年3月参加首尔流行周的首尔搜集舞台的。 有满足当然还作为设计家我拥有了的东西,没有的财富也没有硬的名声和方法只有热情和抱负,说不定旺盛的好奇心左右想要世人们通过(接受)想穿的品牌创造我的衣服这样的我的梦的时候不为止休息跑的自信



[che拥有记者spica@chosun.com ]
Does bae yong joon bring up the Korean boom star designer?
Chosun Ilbo It goes in the town at 09:21AM on Monday, October 26th of 2009. |E-mail|Print




Though it is a gate (post-[ki]) after recent coming to the surface of designer DOII LEE seed in the Korean boom star. It is one of designers paid attention to on Seoul fashionable the week that lowered a curtain the other day. There is separately a cause the rapid surfacing in the Korean boom star like this though there is a past record that acts in France after graduation of London Central cent Martine and has been received popular in foreign countries. The purpose is ..Yong ''.. exactly. Though it is because it is a parents elder sister of movie director segan lee who won the name by bae yong joon's former girlfriend exactly.

Her name began to be told little by little by Japanese fans who were 'Sightseeing course' as for came bae yong joon and returned as for the dining room, the hair salon, and all socks shops. segan lee occupied it, and especially, the program of Coco & mark of cable channel 'On style' progressed recently and the modifier 'Girlfriend in front of bae yong joon' occupied the sphere of the high rank of the retrieval order. The concern for 'Beautiful woman sisters' has risen further more because this DOII LEE also performs with segan lee.

It is said that the shop that this Doii Lee has managed to the road of Seoul and new temple cave ([shinsadon]) street trees also frequently has what by Japanese fans stop by sightseeing, and after the search of Japanese fans for her show on this fashionable week, is a gate (post-[ki]). Though this Doi is a reaction of shamefulness to such a concern. The purpose is to wish to be memorized with clothes of [miru] and 'bae yong joon' taking the place the designer by all means it. mightIt refused to the rumor of ..Brahman.. ..Brahman.. using and having passed as it was a house daughter of large rich [**] (Taegu) and the money core distribution did not exist. This Doi clarified the story of one trillion yen.





My name is DOII LEE. He is a young person in the Republic of Korea that works ardently with the occupation of fashion designer and younger brother (younger sister) is a movie director named segan lee. We are sisters who run on the road intensely and friends.

The father's influence seems to have been large in the place where our sisters were going to go a little on a special road like this. It will still be recalled that it guides it with father who had to spend busy time at the medicine road school in the time that is together so that we always bring the book close and imagination is fostered again willingly though time of a lot of young time was not able to be combined. It made an effort with experiences various as things and the culture were received as it was without holding prejudice regardless of the field. The influence seems not to have been basic of our sisters' will being to be engaged in creative important now.

Oneself was urged when I had the sufficient possibility and it went up to the road of going abroad to study. However, everyone was not friendly to me as I believed me. There was a lot of time serious to want the cross-examination and to ask whether to have the prejudice that their emotions were not able to be understood correctly because I was oriental with black [i] head yellow skin. There was not what faced IMF and expanded the hand to the house though all were difficult situations in the degree either. Teeth were clenched some time due to the error in writing (unyielding) that you all would see my name and the age of going abroad to study was endured while hearing a heavy voice. Younger brother (younger sister) of whom the roll model who parents and is his elder sister who believes me and was supported is made disappointed because of more unpleasant than it dies really.

DOIILEE graduated from the London Central cent Martine university in 2002, it hung in 7 months and the portfolio production, and Dior, Jean-Paul Gaultier, [antoniomarasu], Dolce yen [gabba-na], and Vivienne Westwood's gates were beaten. It came to have the chance to receive reports from [mezo-nkariano] of an individual brand of the Dior most first, and to work there. It will know the history how high is and deep to be Cousturier's quality through this and cannot the absorption of a little more many, moving, and I to the Ken elephant will still remain regrettably.
However, when the solicitation of joining a company was received from it because being possible to work as the first assistant of Ken elephant's new [a-todei;rekuta-antoniomarasu] was attractive in above all, it moved it to the Ken elephant. The experience of working in the vicinity with the art director who admitted my ability raised confidence as the designer, and the desire of wanting to give the brand one by one by my name so and to expand only my design became deep.
The name was finally placed in a line during France and Paris fashionable week of October, 2006 and < [doiparisu] Doii Paris > was launched. It participates in the result of overseas [shorumunyon], and it can be power, and it will finally participate in the Seoul Collection stage of Seoul fashionable week in March, 2009. There is confidence to run without people's wanting my clothes (Receive it) and taking a rest until time that realizes my making from the brand to be put on dream though what I had as a designer of course still be might not wealth without hard fame and the road person either and nothing but zeal, an ambition, and a vigorous curiosity level.



The Tse possession is journalist spica@chosun.com.
http://kr.img.search.yahoo.com/search/imag...l&top=frame

DESIGNER DOII LEE http://doiiparis.com/main.swf

Profile : Designer Doii Lee

2009.02 : 09' F/W SALON DE PRET-A-PORTER
2008.10 : Pret-A-Porter Atmosphere
2008.05 : R&D Beading Fabric and patent application
2008.03 : Established 'Doii Paris' Doii Paris 08/09 F/W Collection
2007.10 : Doii Paris 08 S/S Collection

Review

Doii Lee opened her collection with a romantic theme entitled, “Butterflies flying to the jungle� this season. The designer, inspired by Japanese fairy tale, "Butterfly Girl," applied vibrant printed cottons and shiny sequins appealing bright and optimistic mood. The collection featured exotic color palettes recollecting of animals and plants from Brazilian jungles while transparent sequins were applied over graphic prints creating fantastic visuals. The eye catchers were metallic leggings, trench coats with cropped sleeves, kimono-sleeve dresses, practical-sized bag collection and evening dress featuring sea-referenced shells and pearl details. In addition, cute bow details were added almost everywhere appealing girlish features as well while shoes with neon trims and bead details were very attractive. It was a gorgeous collection as if watching an illustration of fairy tale that were harmoniously put together with vivid makeup.

Contact : www.doiiparis.com / More Images : www.fashionrss.net/1687

* Source from SBA & Seoul Metropolitan Government

Gorgeous Prints Recollecting of Illustrations from Fairy Tales - ‘Doii’ by Doii Lee Doii Lee opened her collection with a romantic theme entitled, “Butterflies flying to the jungle� this season. The designer, inspired by Japanese fairy tale, "Butterfly Girl," applied vibrant printed cottons and shiny sequins appealing bright and optimistic mood. The collection featured exotic color palettes recollecting of animals and plants from Brazilian jungles while transparent sequins were applied over graphic prints creating fantastic visuals. The eye catchers were metallic leggings, trench coats with cropped sleeves, kimono-sleeve dresses, practical-sized bag collection and evening dress featuring sea-referenced shells and pearl details. In addition, cute bow details were added almost everywhere appealing girlish features as well while shoes with neon trims and bead details were very attractive. It was a gorgeous collection as if watching an illustration of fairy tale that were harmoniously put together with vivid makeup.

Doii, LEE DOII
Seoul Fashion Week Fall/Winter 09/10

doiilee@me.com

doiiparis.com

Seoul Fashion Week Fall/Winter 09/10 - Collections

Doii Lee: Like a Doll from Paris


After graduating from Central St. Martins College (the best 10 graduates of the College, 2002), Doii's first job was with John Galliano. While working with him, she was sometimes collaborating with the Christian Dior Team. After working with Galliano, Doii was chosen by Antonio Marras himself to work at Kenzo. Working with these great designers, Doii discovered her talent and passion, and felt a strong need to start her own label. 'Doii Paris' is then established. . . Following her instincts, the success of the brand comes as no surprise. She is using very special techniques, and together with her amazing talent the collections are really stunning and glamorous! In a recent interview for Hello Magazine, Doii said: "My collection is based around a doll I have, she reflects a certain type of woman. This woman can go anywhere, she has access to any place. She can go to the office, go out and meet friends, or travel to Brazil, anything! She's an independent modern woman...everything in my collection has an ultra feminine touch...I like to define my collection as sexy and fun with an innocent edge...".

.
Doii's collections are produced in Korea, she is participating in Seoul Fashion Week, and she also presents her collections twice a year during Paris Fashion Week..
.
Doii Lee lives and works in Paris While my visit in Paris, I met the Korean designer Doii Lee. The truth is that I got really impressed with her designs...they immediately cought my attention...so original and so fresh! She is using a unique method by combining transparent sequins together with other beautiful and fun fabrics. The result is amazing; the garments are very feminine and glamorous.
. .
After finishing her studies in Central St. Martins College, Doii Lee worked for Christian Dior and then for Kenzo. At the moment, she is presenting her collections during Paris Fashion Week and Seoul Fashion Week. Her line, Doii Paris, is sold in many countries around the world with a very strong presence in Middle East. You can read more about Doii at the section of Biographies.
.
From next season onwards, Fashion Net World will be representing Doii Paris in Cyprus.
. .

10-29-2009 15:49

Spotlight on Seoul Fashion


Lee Doii created a collection of beautifully illustrated dresses for her show at Seoul Fashion Week.

/ Courtesy of Seoul Fashion Week
By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter

Seoul fashion was in the spotlight last week, as Korea's top designers unveiled their collections for spring/summer next year.

Seoul Fashion Week (SFW) brought together 43 designers for eight days of fashion shows at the Seoul Trade Exhibition Center (SETEC), Daechi-dong, southern Seoul.

This season's line-up was leaner but stronger, since the SFW organizers sought to pick more globally competitive Korean designers.

Korea Fashion Association chairman Won Dae-yun, who was also the chairman of the SFW organizing committee, emphasized the importance of global competitiveness for Korea's fashion designers and industry.

``The fashion industry must be globalized or else it will not survive. Since this fashion week started nine years ago, our event was mainly a local festival, without any global focus. But since I took over as the chairman of the committee handling SFW, I made global competitiveness the main priority of fashion week,'' Won told The Korea Times.

Won, a former CEO of Cheil Industries, sought to bring a global mindset to Korean designers who usually focus on the local market. This was why the SFW picked only Korean designers who are expanding abroad and whose design, quality and price were competitive, over designers who merely focused on the local market.

As a result, Seoul Fashion Week featured designers who are making inroads in foreign markets, including Andy & Debb, Lee Young-hee, Han Song, Song Zio, Song Jain and Lee Doii.

Renowned foreign designers Phillip Lim, Damir Doma and Richard Nicoll were invited to stage their shows, not just to bring more glamour and international flair to fashion week but also inspire local designers to pursue global markets.

Edgy but Classic Men's Fashion

As always, Korean menswear designers kicked off two days of shows at Seoul Fashion Week. The menswear designs were a mix of classic, edgy and even comfortable. Spotted on the runway were suits updated with trendy details, deconstructed jackets and resort-style pieces such as cuffed pants and tailored shorts paired with easy jackets.

Han Sang-huk unveiled his ``Tattoo Collection'' for MVIO, with a live jazz performance. Models wore resort suits and vests, with tattoo print undershirts and leggings peeking from underneath.

One of the most anticipated collections was from Andy & Debb designer Seo-kwon Andy Kim, who presented his first men's wear collection in Korea. He brought the Andy & Debb brand's sensibility of romantic minimalism to well-cut jackets and pants, matched with attention-grabbing red leather shoes.

In an interview with The Korea Times, Kim said he was inspired by colors from Marc Rothko's paintings, and sought to express this through different fabrics and materials. ``We had the same theme in 2003 (for Andy & Debb women's wear collection), and at that time I wanted to also have a men's collection. So we decided to have that theme again for this collection… We can now make a real Andy & Debb couple,'' Kim said.

While the collection will be initially available in Korea, Kim and his wife Won-jeong Debbie Yoon hoped to also be able to bring the collection to New York, like their women's wear line.

A distinctly European atmosphere pervaded Ko Tae-young's ``Beyond Closet'' show, from the street lamps on the runway to the collection inspired by ordinary people. There was an ``ordinary'' denim jacket paired with a checkered suit, as well as tailored denim suits, and sleeveless jackets.

At Kang Dong Jun's D.GNAK of KANG.D fashion show, barefoot models splashed on the water-filled runway as they wore rolled up pants and wet-looking linen shirts. Park He-rin sent down a collection of crisp suits, edgy tuxedo suits and strong shouldered jackets with a rebellious British vintage style for her second line ``I AM A BLUE BY HERIN.''

For ``Line or Circle,'' Park Sung-chul chose to put a spin on classics, resulting in tailored sleeveless jackets with shorts and sporty knit vests.

Song Zio, who presented in Paris last June, once again showed the Songzio Homme collection characterized by soft masculinity with hooded short jumpsuits, pleated pants and deconstructed T-shirts.

Chang Kwang-hyo's collection also featured classic suits with rolled up pants and tucked-out shirts, and easy-going pieces like cropped jackets, linen suits and pajama-style satin shirts. Most pieces were black-and-white with a touch of pastel colors.

Diverse Styles for Women

While there was a rich diversity in design, it seemed most designers focused on a few key trends like the easy-going style, loose silhouettes, edgy street fashion and masculine touches on feminine pieces. Black remained a dominant color, but designers also played with vibrant colors and natural earth tones in their clothes.

High profile designer Ha Sang-beg presented an edgy collection for his Ha:Sang:Beg line. Models wore outfits in red, green, acid pink and orange and adorned with frills, fringes, studs, patchwork and lace.

The style of 40's pin-up girls was revived in Cho Sung-kyong's sexy, glamorous collection. Strong shouldered jackets, which seemed to be a staple at several collections, also made an appearance at the Latulle show, along with satin dresses and lingerie-inspired pieces

With the somewhat macabre funeral theme for her collection, Im Seon-oc presented an almost performance art-like show with a mask-wearing model throwing fabric flowers with wet paint on the runway. The artsy element almost took away attention from Im's black and white designs adorned with zippers, sequins and lace.

In an interview with The Korea Times, Im said that she was inspired by the Shim museum, which has beautiful images of funerals. ``I took the idea that `death is scary but the funeral itself must be fun','' she said.

Lee Doii designed her Doii Paris collection with the theme ``Invincible Energy,'' combining futuristic elements with traditional Japanese ones. Her dresses were exquisitely feminine with pleats, ruffles, lace, ribbons and intricate beading, but with fabrics printed with Japanese-inspired illustrations Lee had made herself.

``I was inspired by a lot of Japanese artists who combine traditional art with their own originality which is modern, very urban and cutting edge. I wanted to try the same thing,'' Lee told The Korea Times, after the show.

Forget about favorite Korean animated character Pucca's cute side. Kwak Hyun-joo was inspired by a tough but sexy Pucca (think Angelina Jolie in ``Wanted'') when making her Gissen collection. The popular Pucca image was found on hot pants, cleavage-baring tunics, bikini tops and mini-dresses, which are geared towards trendy young women.

Han Song presented a very polished Troa collection, with pointy shouldered tailored dresses and jackets. Han said he was inspired by a mummy, and appropriately, a mummy-looking model covered in an all-white bandage outfit and jacket walked the catwalk.

Song Jain transformed everyone's spring essential, the khaki trench coat, into tube dresses, tops, skirts and shorts. This season, Song said, she focused on form and volume for her brand ``Jain by Jain Song.''

The honor of giving the closing show at Seoul Fashion Week went to Gee Choon-hee. The Miss Gee Collection fashion show attracted a bevy of celebrities, who adored Gee's utterly feminine and pretty designs.

SFAA Collection

Prior to Seoul Fashion Week, the Seoul Fashion Artists Association (SFAA) staged a separate, much smaller event featuring established designers such as Jinteok, Rubina and Sul Yun-hyoung.

With the theme of modern natural, SFAA member designers stuck to eco-friendly designs and light fabrics in muted colors. Jinteok interpreted this theme in her typically minimalist style with dresses in cocoon shapes and strong shoulders. Sul Yun-hyoung goes for a free, easy but extremely feminine look for her mini-dresses and shirt dresses in silk, cotton and silk jersey fabrics.

While the SFAA designers' collections were interesting and innovative, the SFAA shows were overshadowed by the bigger and better organized Seoul Fashion Week.

cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/art/2009/10/203_54472.html

BEAUTIFUL SHARING

Show of fashion that never goes out of style

November 09, 2009


“Fashion passes, style remains,� Coco Chanel was once quoted as saying.

You will see there’s quite a bit of truth to that when you see the Lea Seong collection at the upcoming Pret-a-Porter Busan. The designer’s collection is a modern twist on the 1920s, proving that some fashions never go out of style.

“The 1920s was an important decade in the history of women’s rights and fashion. Just think of films like ‘Chicago’ and ‘The Great Gatsby.’ It was when women enjoyed their newfound freedom in many ways. And that’s well illustrated in fashion,� she said in a recent telephone interview with the JoongAng Daily from Shanghai, where she is based.

In the roaring ’20s in the U.S., women won the right to vote and started breaking with the social conventions that had previously dictated their behavior. They powdered their noses and smoked cigarettes in public, and they drank cocktails and listened to jazz music in nightclubs.


Lea Seong recreates fashions from the 1920s at Pret-a-porter Busan. Provided by Model Center International
Fashion was quick to adapt. Chanel, for one, introduced jackets and short skirts to better suit women’s increased level of activity.

“I think women in the 1920s felt more liberated yet more feminine than before. That was the mood I was in when I was creating my collection,� said Seong.

She explained that the clothes in her collection are boxy yet feminine, as the styles in the 1920s were, with fringe and pleats.

Before the Busan show, which will feature 32 pieces, Seong presented her work at China Fashion Week 2010 Spring/Summer, which kicked off in Beijing last week.

Seong, a graduate of Parsons The New School for Design in New York, has earned recognition in China and she is the only foreign member of the China Fashion Designers Association. The friendly ties between Seong and the relatively closed Chinese fashion circuit have to do with her use of organic fabrics, which also reflects the larger trend toward organic materials at Pret-a-Porter Busan this year.

When Seong launched her own label, Lea Seong, last year after working for companies like Calvin Klein, she decided to start using organic fabrics to set herself apart from other high-end women’s wear lines and to keep in step with the global trend toward eco-friendly products. She works with fabrics made of bamboo, beans and charcoal, but her specialty is fabrics made of milk.

“Unlike other organic fabrics, milk fabrics are very practical and versatile. I have made chiffon, jersey and sweaters with it.�

She has partnered with a Chinese company that makes and exports milk fabrics mainly to Norway, Italy and France. The company has supplied milk fabrics for use in bed spreads, blankets and furniture, but only rarely for a trendy women’s wear brand. Seong will also launch a children’s wear line that uses organic fabrics in December.



Pret-a-Porter Busan takes place from next Thursday to Saturday at Bexco in Busan. Lea Seong’s collection will be featured on Friday. For more information, visit http://papbusan.com/.


By Kim Hyung-eun [hkim@joongang.co.kr]

http://www.olivetv.co.kr/cocomarc/ http://www.olivetv.co.kr/micro/2009styleic...awards_0101.asp

COCO & MARC

BEAUTY COCO& MARC MODEL* SEGAN LEE SSI MAP* W CONCEPT RED BEST RUNAWAY - WHO'S THE BEST? COCO & MARC STYLE RUNAWAY SHOW http://www.olivetv.co.kr/micro/cocomarc/default.asp

http://www.olivetv.co.kr/styleiconawards/ http://www.cgv.co.kr/pub/default.aspx/ http://www.olivetv.co.kr/micro/2009styleic...awards_0301.asp

[PHOTO] Stars arrive at Style Icon Awards - 3Photographer : Park Sung-Ki musictok@asiae.co.kr 기사입력2009.11.11 23:24최종수정2009.11.11 23:24 0 0

Girl group Jewelry member Seo In-young [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]


Girl group Jewelry member Seo In-young arrives at the 2009 Style Icon Awards held at N Seoul Tower in South Korea on November 11, 2009.




Actress Park Si-yeon [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]


Actress Park Si-yeon arrives at the 2009 Style Icon Awards held at N Seoul Tower in South Korea on November 11, 2009.

Photographer : Park Sung-Ki musictok@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

[PHOTO] Stars arrive at Style Icon Awards - 1Photographer : Park Sung-Ki musictok@asiae.co.kr기사 폰트확대
크게 작게
프린트하기 메일보내기 스크랩하기 네이트스크랩하기 기사입력2009.11.11 23:29최종수정2009.11.11 23:29 0 0

Actress Kim Nam-joo [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]


Actress Kim Nam-joo arrives at the 2009 Style Icon Awards held at N Seoul Tower in South Korea on November 11, 2009.




Actress Ha Ji-won [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]


Actress Ha Ji-won arrives at the 2009 Style Icon Awards held at N Seoul Tower in South Korea on November 11, 2009.

Photographer : Park Sung-Ki musictok@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

[PHOTO] Stars arrive at Style Icon Awards - 2Photographer : Park Sung-Ki musictok@asiae.co.kr기사 폰트확대
크게 작게
프린트하기 메일보내기 스크랩하기 네이트스크랩하기 기사입력2009.11.11 23:27최종수정2009.11.11 23:27 0 0

Actor Lee Min-ki [Park Sung-ki/Asia Economic Daily]


Actor Lee Min-ki arrives at the 2009 Style Icon Awards held at N Seoul Tower in South Korea on November 11, 2009.

Style Icon Awards shines 2009 with edginessReporter : Choi Ji-Eun five@10asia.co.kr기사 폰트확대
크게 작게
프린트하기 메일보내기 스크랩하기 네이트스크랩하기 기사입력2009.11.13 20:28최종수정2009.11.13 20:28 0 0 The 2009 Style Icon Awards


Korean actress Kim Hye-soo at the Style Icon Awards on November 11, 2009 [10Asia]


The 2009 Style Icon Awards -- which awards figures in society, culture and the arts who led the country in trend and style -- was held at N Seoul Tower on November 11. The event was aired live for five hours on three cable channels; Olive, tvN and XTM, from 6 to 11 p.m. The ceremony was hosted by 3 emcees -- anchorwoman Baik Ji-yeon, actress Park Si-yeon and singer Seo In-young -- who went from girl to woman and woman to lady, representing the famous Klimt painting "The Three Ages of Woman", which was the motif concept for the event.

Actress Kim Hye-soo wins two awards
The top prize Icon of the Year Award was handed to actress Kim Hye-soo, who put up a good fight with her edgy acting in SBS TV series "Style". Kim, who also won in the Television Actress category, said in her acceptance speech, "Thank you for calling my name twice on such a fantastic stage. I think it's a big blessing for me to win this incredible award at a ceremony which is about love and sharing." Jung Woo-sung of "A Good Rain Knows" and Ha Ji-won of "Haeundae" were selected winners for the Movie Star category, while hip-hop artist Tiger JK (of hip-hop group Drunken Tiger) won the Male Musician category and performed "Monster" and "True Love" with singer-rapper wife Yoon Mi-rae. Actress Kim Nam-joo, who won the TV Star category for her role in MBC drama "Queen of Housewives", delivered the perfect housewife speech. "I love [husband and actor] Kim Seung-woo, the King of Charms". Idol group member and actor Kim Hyun-joong, who starred in the pouplar KBS TV series "Boys Over Flowers" earlier this year, was voted the Most Popular Icon by some 250,000 Netizens.


Stars who attended the 2009 Style Icon Awards on November 11, 2009 : Clockwise from top left, singer and MC Seo In-young, actress Ha Ji-won, baseball player Choo Shin-soo, actor Lee Min-ki, actress Kim Nam-joo and model Kim Young-kwang [10Asia]


For the Special Icon Award, Kim Young-kyun accepted the award on behalf of his wife, actress Jang Jin-young who passed away in September due to stomach cancer, and gave a moving speech: "I attended this event because the purpose of the ceremony, which is to help many people in need, was what my wife believed in when she was alive. I will deliver this award to Jang Jin-young." Actress Kim Hye-ja, who has long worked as ambassador for World Vision, shared her Beautiful Sharing Award with "people who do good work for children behind the scenes". Many celebrities, including Jung Hyung-don, Jung Ga-eun, Horan and Jeong Ryeo-won attended the event to present the awards. Other stars who showed up included actresses Shin Min-ah, Oh Hyun-kyung, Choi Song-hyun, Lee A-hyun and Song Sun-mi.


Icon of the Year: Kim Hye-soo
Male Movie Star: Jung Woo-sung
Female Movie Star: Ha Ji-won
Male TV Actor: Kwon Sang-woo
Female TV Actress: Kim Hye-soo
TV Star: Kim Nam-joo
Male Singer: Tiger JK
Female Singer: 2NE1
Model: Kim Young-kwang
TV New Icon: Kim Nam-gil
Movie New Icon: Lee Min-ki
Sports: Choo Shin-soo
Culture & Arts: Park Chan-wook
Performance & Arts: Lee Seung-chul
Beautiful Sharing: World Vision (Kim Hye-ja)
Fun Fearless Female: Ha Ji-won
Male Fashionista: Kim Sung-soo
Female Fashionista: Shin Min-ah
People's Choice - Most Popular Icon: Kim Hyun-joong
Special Award: Jang Jin-young (accepted by husband Kim Young-kyun)


Reporter : Choi Ji-Eun five@10asia.co.kr
Photographer : Lee Jin-hyuk eleven@10asia.co.kr
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Korea to set up showroom during New York Fashion Week

The Korean government is to set up a showroom in the United States during the upcoming New York Fashion Week, aiming to increase global recognition of the country's emerging designers and their fashion through the influential event, according to Yonhap News.
The showroom "Concept Korea: Fashion Collective 2010," displaying works by six Korean designer teams will run for three days at the New York Public Library starting Feb. 12, Korea's culture ministry said.

The showroom is the first part of the event in the government-led project to promote and introduce Korean designers overseas. The Council of Fashion Designers of America is also sponsoring the project.

The six designer teams participating in the event are: Park Choon-moo (DEMOO), Kim Suk-won and Yoo Won-jung (Andy & Debb), Lee Doii (Doii Paris), Chung Ku-ho (KUHO), Jung Wook-juun (JUUN.J) and Hong Seung-wan (ROLIAT).






2009.11.16

Pret-a-Porter Busan starts today



Pret-a-Porter Busan, Korea's second-largest fashion event, kicks off today and continues through Saturday at BEXCO.

Unlike in previous years where it the event made efforts to introduce world-class foreign designers to the local fashion industry, the 2010 edition will focus on featuring distinguished Korean designers active on the international stage, according to the Model Center, which is hosting the event.

In particular, Gina Kim, Doii Lee and Lea Seong are the three Korean female designers worth paying attention to, a Model Center spokesperson said.


Kim is a classical pianist-turned-designer based in Australia. Just three years after beginning her new career, Kim proved her talent upon winning an Australian Fashion Design Award in 2002.

Kim is known for her works that incorporate innovative textiles with commercial appeal, creating her own style of "modern-day glamour." The Gina Kim brand is particularly noted for evening gowns which have already been worn by celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Kylie.

Lee has worked for luxury goods brands John Galliano and Kenzo since graduating from leading Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design. She has been mainly focusing on pursuing her career in London, Paris and Japan.

For her Saturday show, Lee will present energetic and witty designs -- mainly colorful printed cotton, chiffon and silk garments with shiny decoration like sequins on them. She uses diverse colors from white, black and blue to pink, emerald and ivory.






Seong is also an up-and-coming designer that the fashion-savvy might want to keep an eye on, said the Model Center spokesperson.

The Parsons graduate is popular in Shanghai, where her eponymous brand name is based, as well as the United States. She recently became the first foreign member of China Fashion Designer Association.

Seong's collection tomorrow is also highly anticipated by industry insiders, since she will feature "flapper-style"-themed garments made of her specialty fabric, which is made from organic milk.

Other veteran local designers including An Yoon-jung, Lee Young-hee and Lee Mi-kyung, also participates in the event.

With funding by the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism from this year, Pret-a-Porter Busan ambitiously aims to make grounds as a fashion event that represents the country, along with the Seoul Fashion Week.

"We are also considering combining fashion shows with other artistic genres to make Pret-a-Porter an event that represents Asia," said Model Center president Toh Shin-woo.

For more information, go to www.papbusan.com or call Model Center at (02) 528-0888.

(youngaah@heraldm.com)





By Koh Young-aah

Future of Korean Fashion in 2010


Models stand on the runway for Andy & Debb’s fashion show during the 2010 spring/summer Seoul Fashion Week last October. Korean designers Kim Suk-won and Yoon Won-jung were chosen to participate in “Concept Korea: Fashion Collective 2010� during New York Fashion Week in February.

/ Courtesy of Seoul Fashion Week

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter

If 2009 was any indication, then 2010 will be an exciting time for the Korean fashion industry.

The year saw Seoul stepping up its efforts to build its reputation as an haute couture capital with two successful Seoul Fashion Week events. Next year, local designers and companies are trying to become more competitive in order to battle global fashion brands not just at home, but also overseas.

Going Global

Unlike previous years when the focus was on the local market, Seoul Fashion Week placed more emphasis on global competitiveness.

Korea Fashion Association chairman Won Dae-yun said the survival of the Korean fashion industry is hinged on its ability to compete with foreign brands. Many Korean designers and brands are known for their high-quality, but also for their expensive price tags.

``Most Korean garments are very expensive because they only focus on the local market. That's why they don't want to export. But the local market is already 50 percent occupied by foreign brands, so many local designers are screaming that they are having difficulty and can't survive. But they don't even try to make their prices lower,'' he said.



Won, the former CEO of Cheil Industries who was responsible for launching brands such as Bean Pole, suggested that Koreans should make their design, quality and pricing globally competitive if they want to make inroads into the international market. Or maybe even incorporate unique elements of Korean culture to make them stand out from the rest.

``If we do Western clothing, we should add some Korean aspects to it such as Korean colors or fabrics to make it different. Otherwise, why would they buy from us … Western people don't know much about Korean culture or lifestyle, so we should try to make them understand and recognize Korea. Maybe in five years or later, we can have a world class Korean designer or fashion brand,'' he said.

Interestingly, the government is pushing Korean fashion designers more aggressively into the international markets through fashion shows and events.

The ``Concept Korea: Fashion Collective 2010'' will introduce several Korean designers during New York Fashion Week in February. Organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Culture & Contents Agency, the project involves opening a Korean showroom at the New York Public Library from Feb. 12 to 14.

Six Korean designers have been chosen to showcase their collection: Park Choon-moo (DEMOO), Jung Wook-juun (JUUN.J), Chung Ku-ho (KUHO), Kim Suk-won and Yoon Won-jung (Andy & Debb), Hong Seung-wan (ROLIAT) and Lee Doii (Doii Paris).

Lee, who has worked for Christian Dior and Kenzo in Paris, says that Korean designers are very talented, but some haven't quite embraced the idea of going global.

``I think Korean designers haven't yet recognized the importance of being international yet because Korea has a tradition that Korean people stay together. But in the last few years, people have been more aware of the international market. But with the help of the government, I think it will start happening,'' Lee said.

Fast Fashion Wars Heat Up

As H&M, the world's third largest fashion chain in terms of revenue, is preparing to enter the Korean market, expect fiercer competition among fast fashion brands here.

The market is already filled with global brands such as Japan's Uniqlo, Spain's Zara and U.S.-based brands Gap and Forever 21.

Recently, a Korean fast fashion brand SPAO was launched by leading fashion retail conglomerate E-Land. It hopes to challenge foreign brands by offering a Korean take on fast fashion. The name SPAO is an acronym for ``specialty retailer of private label apparel original,'' which means the company produces its own clothing line and sells it exclusively in its stores.

SPAO made a big splash when it opened its three-storey flagship store in Myeongdong, alongside Uniqlo, Mango, Gap and Bean Pole, last month.

While it offers the usual range of T-shirts, jeans and sweaters, SPAO has set itself apart by tapping Korean pop groups Girls' Generation and Super Junior as image models. Girls' Generation and Super Junior members have also collaborated with SPAO to design a special line of shirts, sweaters and jackets, which are quite popular among fans.

However, H&M is looking to be a strong competitor when it opens in spring next year. The Swedish fashion chain is known for its collaborations with world famous designers such as Comme des Garcons, Karl Lagerfeld, Matthew Williamson, Jimmy Choo and Sonia Rykiel.

Emerging Fashion Trends

Meanwhile, new trends emerged at the spring and summer collections presented by local and international designers.

Women can keep an eye on trends such as sexy lingerie, bold florals, African tribal prints, puffed skirts, exaggerated ruffles and luxurious metallic fabrics. Men have it easier, tweaking their wardrobes with a few simple pieces like cuffed pants, tailored shorts and resort suits.

Say goodbye to black and dark colors, and say hello to pastel shades, perhaps a sign of more optimistic times ahead. Try injecting your wardrobe with peach pink and royal blue pieces.

Lingerie-inspired clothing, spotted on the runways from New York to Paris, is seen as a top trend for 2010. Corset tops, sheer skirts, lacy dresses and satin brassiere tops will give a sexy touch to any woman's wardrobe. However, make sure to pick lingerie-style items that will add a touch of sexiness, but in a tasteful way.

The military look has been updated with a feminine touch, as seen in elegant khaki jackets and use of softer camouflage prints.

The '80s trend shows no sign of waning, and exaggerated shoulders, boxy jackets, cinched waists, harem pants and puffed sleeves will continue to be seen in stores.

cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

Discover makgeolli



This is the 60th in a series of articles highlighting tourism spots in Seoul. The guide for planning weekend trips in the capital city will help readers rediscover Seoul. - Ed.

Written by Yeonmi Kim
http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/NEWKHSITE/dat...01001080021.asp

Fashion designer Doii Lee enjoys the dinner appointments she has with her foreign friends. This is because there is an alcoholic drink she can introduce as one traditional to Korea since makgeolli became famous worldwide. It was difficult to explain to foreign friends about traditional wines before makgeolli became well known. Now, it is easy to take them to makgeolli restaurants, and enjoy a traditional tipple.

Doii Lee invited Jasmine, Maurizio, Lachlan and David, who are all admirers of makgeolli, to a restaurant called "Muimui" close to her office in Sinsadong Garosu-gil.

"When you think of a makgeolli house, it is usually an old pub with makgeolli filled in a yellow kettle, but nowadays there are many atmospheric makgeolli houses. Also, it is good to see how makgeolli comes in a variety of containers, such as glass bottles."

Doii Lee thinks that makgeolli houses are providing a different atmosphere to suit their customers, which now include a lot of female makgeolli fans.






Lachlan showed interest in Muimui's interior before sitting down. The first floor is a cafe and the second floor is a terrace pocha. They sell makgeolli on the second floor, but only for this day, there were seats available at the group table located in the cafe on the first floor.

The only makgeolli sold at Muimui is rice makgeolli. It is made in a traditional method by using the old liquor pot in North Gyeongsang Province. Every day, the old ladies who make the makgeolli have it taken by refrigerated truck and delivered to customers.

As everyone exchanges greetings, a glass bottle of rice makgeolli and tasty kimchi came out. There was a bamboo stick in the glass bottle to stir the makgeolli. Jasmine began to stir with a practiced hand.

"Makgeolli tastes best when you stir it," she explained

Lachlan and David also stirred makgeolli each time they poured it in the cups. These days, young people don't stir the cloudy white portion at the bottom before drinking -- they prefer to drink the clear makgeolli. However, makgeolli tastes best when you stir the cloudy white portion into the rest of the drink. Even makgeolli in individual cups tastes better when you stir the cloudy portion in with a chopstick.

Makgeolli is an alcoholic drink made from fermenting steamed rice flour, glutinous rice and flour by adding yeast and water. The main ingredient of makgeolli is 80 percent water, 6-7 percent alcohol, 2 percent protein, 0.8 percent carbohydrates and 0.1 percent fat; the rest contains fiber, vitamin B and C, lactic acid and yeast.

Makgeolli gets its name from the fact that it requires no processes like distillation after fermentation. There are other names besides makgeolli, such as "takju" and "nongju," which means "farmer's liquor," so called because people usually drank it when farming.

Lachlan asks how strong makgeolli is while pouring. The waiter tells him it is 6 percent alcohol by volume.

"Makgeolli's alcohol by volume is higher than beer, but about 3 times lower than soju. You can get full if you drink too much, but it's a great drink to enjoy at parties."


Refreshing taste


Nokdu jeon and pork belly steak salad are great side dishes for makgeolli. Pajeon is another good side dish for makgeolli, but it goes well with other dishes too.

Jasmine who has lived in Korea for over 4 years likes Korean food so much that she has learnt to make her own soybean paste stew. She said makgeolli goes well with kimchi stew and soybean paste stew as well.

"Makgeolli seems to go well with all food. It tastes good with kimchi stew. When you drink it, the gas gives out refreshing taste that works well as an alcohol before meals."

As soon as Jasmine finished speaking, Lachlan added that it was best to drink after exercising. Lachlan has been coming to Korea regularly for the past 5 years, and has been staying in Korea for the lasst year-and-a-half because of work.

"I have lots of opportunity to drink makgeolli with my Korean friends. I usually drink them after going hiking. The refreshing taste is perfect when I am thirsty."

There is a unique refreshing side to the taste of makgeolli. Jasmine, Maurizio, Lachlan and David all said that the refreshing taste of makgeolli appealed to them. This is because of its unique taste and the subtle fizz provided by the carbonic acid formed during the fermentation process.


Makgeolli on rainy days


They all said they enjoyed makgeolli the most when it rains.

"My friends here today are more Korean than foreigners. Most of the foreigners who come to Korea learn to drink from their Korean friends. That is probably why they enjoy drinking makgeolli on rainy days more than other days. Emotionally, we have a tendency to crave makgeolli when it rains. It tastes much better and the oil from the pajeon smells great," said Doii Lee.

David who came from Israel said he liked makgeoli because of the family-like atmosphere found in the Korean drinking culture.

"Korean drinking culture is very family-like, unlike in Israel. I've been here in Korea for three years now, and the one thing that changed is that I drink alcohol like Koreans with my foreign friends, even when there aren't any Korean friends present," he explained. "We fill each other's cups when they are empty and make sure there are enough side dishes. This sort of drinking culture is difficult to find in Israel."

Maurizio added to David's comment.

"We think it is impolite to come to drinking parties when it's late, but in Korea, people welcome the latecomer and make room for that person. Koreans really enjoy the atmosphere of drinking together," he said

After around six cups of makgeolli has gone around, the atmosphere has risen and cheeks have become a little red.

Lastly, it was curious as to how much they can drink. Lachlan said he could drink up to 7 bottles of soju, David was 3 bottles of soju, Jasmin was 2 bottles of lemon soju, and Maurizio kidded the night was too short to find the extent of his drinking capacity. Everyone answered how much they could drink in terms of soju, even though they had been talking about malgeolli until now. In future, perhaps makgeolli will be mentioned more often.

As it gets late, Lachlan proposed a toast to end the gathering, and everyone happily emptied their last cup. The small makgeolli party ended with everyone wishing each other a happy 2010.


Muimui Information

Menu: Rice makgeolli 900 ml 10,000 won, nokdu jeon 15,000 won, pork belly steak salad 25,000 won

Business hours: Cafe 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

Terrace pocha 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

Location: Go down the alley next to Cine City, and turn right at the Mini Stop.

Inquiries: 02-515-3981~2



BOX1. Reasons for Praising Makgeolli

"You can feel full after drinking only one or two cups of makgeolli, which eases the burden of drinking parties that last until late at night. It is also good for women who worry about gaining weight and who are on a diet."

Doii Lee (32, Korean, CEO and designer of Doii Paris)


"Makgeolli tastes good with kimchi stew and soybean paste stew. It is good as a drink before meals along with soybean paste stew in an earthen pot."

Jasmine Guerin-Jones (27, New Zealander, primary school English teacher)


"Makgeolli is perfect for after exercising and hiking. The bubbles formed inside your mouth give off a cool refreshing taste."

Lachlan Winner (32, Canadian, Joint CEO of Tutti Matti Resto Lounge Italian restaurant)


"Makgeolli is a great alcohol to drink together. It is the kind of drink that friends who came late to the drinking party uninvited would even enjoy drinking."

Maurizio Ventrone (33, Italian, Joint CEO of Tutti Matti Resto Lounge Italian restaurant)


"Now, I drink like Koreans even when I am with my foreign friends and there aren't any Korean friends there. We fill each other's cups and make sure there are enough side dishes."

David Manor (32, Israeli, PR Magazine managing director)


Recommended Makgeolli Houses


Makgeolli houses that have won fans thanks to their differentiated makgeolli are listed below.


Baesangmyun Brewery


Baesangmyun Brewery is a franchise pub. You can drink raw rice wine called "Saeng Makgeolli Daepo" at Baesangmyun Brewery. Unlike most makgeolli, which is made from hard-boiled rice, saeng makgeolli daepo is made by fermenting raw rice. Since it uses raw rice, the acetaldehyde decreases by more than ten times to give a cleaner taste. Additionally, there is no heat treatment involved, adding to the clean taste. If you order Baesangmyun dinner special set or side dishes, you are provided with unlimited regular alcohol (Sansachun, Heukmeeju, Cheondae-hongju, Hwalin 18 pum and Baekhaju).


Menu: Saeng makgeolli 1 liter 13,000 won, Lunch special set 19,000 won, Baesangmyun dinner special set 32,000 won

Business hours: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 17:30p.m.-11 p.m.

Location: In the basement the Finance Center next to the Korea Press Center in Gwanghwamun

Inquiries: 02-773-3238 www.soolsool.co.kr


Bekseju Village

A pub operated directly by Kooksoondang Brewery. You can taste the thickest type of makgeolli, "ihwaju," at Bekseju Village. Ihwaju was the high-quality makgeolli available only for noblemen during the Goryeo era, and leaves a trace of rice powder around the lips. A cup of ihwaju shouldn't be drained all at once, but tasted one sip at a time. It is made from steamed white rice cake, which is why there are only small amounts available and is difficult to mass produce. It is best to make phone inquiries before you visit. Haemul sujebi spicy soup and tofu kimchi are great side dishes for ihwaju. Also, saeng makgeolli is recommended if you prefer a more refreshing taste, and rice makgeolli if you like a clean and smooth taste.


Menu: Ihwaju 300 ml 24,000 won, Saeng makgeolli 750ml 4,000 won, Rice makgeolli 960 ml 6,000 won, Roasted bossam with sauce (standard) 18,200 won, Hae-mul pajeon 10,000 won, Tangpyung-che Cheongpo-muk 13,000 won

Business hours: 5 p.m.-1 a.m.

Location: Go out of Exit 4 of Jonggak Station on subway Line 1. Bekseju Village is behind the Bosingak Belfry.

Inquiries: Bekseju Village Jongno Branch 02-720-0055 www.ksdb.co.kr


Dduktak


Chamsari-takju, which is made by Jang Seok-pil, who is the official Korean master of traditional wines, is the only alcohol sold. It is a makgeolli made of environmentally-friendly Korean rice. Chamsari-takju's alcohol by volume is 5 percent. You can drink it pure, or drink it as fruit makgeolli. There are over 20 different fruit makgeollis, including peach, grape, pineapple, strawberry, kiwi, citron, Korean raspberry and pomegranate, which you can choose from. Korean raspberry, strawberry and pomegranate makgeolli are popular with Japanese women. It is good to drink with Korean-style seafood pancakes, cheese potato pancakes, and Sichuan style chicken vegetable stew.

Menu: Liquor by the cup 4,000 won, 1/2 bottle 5,000 won, one bottle 9,000 won, Garlic mushroom and tteokgalbi-gui 17,000 won, cheese-potato pancake 12,000 won, seafood pancake 12,000 won, Sichuan style chicken and vegetable stew 15,000 won

Business hours: 4 p.m.-4 a.m.

Location: Between Sinchon subway and railway stations, opposite Nolita Italian restaurant.

Inquiries: 02-323-8820 www.dduktak.com


Tip

How to choose makgeolli in a plastic bottle at the mart


It is similar to choosing fruit. The plastic bottle should feel strong when you touch it. When you choose a watermelon, you look for the ones that sound ripe by tapping on it; the mature makgeolli gives out a clear sound when you tap on the plastic bottle.










2010.01.08

Korean fashion expects grand debut in New York
Date: February 10, 2010





http://www.korea.net/news/news/NewsView.as...12&part=106
New York Fashion Week is coming up (Feb. 11 to 18), posing a perfect chance for Korea to give its fashion culture a boost from Feb. 12 to 14.

The show, entitled “Concept Korea,� has been jointly prepared by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Creative Content Agency and sponsored by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).

In past programs, the government limited itself to shouldering partial expenses for local designers going abroad for a prestigious show. In this program, the government is giving offers comprehensive service, assisting in creating Look Book, running websites, introducing related functions and more.

The opening ceremony for Concept Korea alone is expected to attract considerable attention. Korean-American designer Doori Jung will be the host and Rain, the Korean singer-turned-actor who recently starred in the Hollywood movie “Ninja Assassin� will drive up the excitement on the stage. The food will be prepared by esteemed Jean Georges and Da Silvano, big names in fusion cooking. They are to adapt typical Korean dishes to better suit those who are unfamiliar with Korean cuisine.

The guest list is yet to be confirmed, but some of the names on the definite list include world famous model Naomi Campbell, designer Ralph Lauren and Mark Jacobs, actresses Julia Roberts and Uma Thurman, and New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, among others. “With the sponsoring of CFDA, we expect to see quite a number of celebrities that day,� said one official at the culture ministry.




The main designers to star in the show are in six teams: Park Choon-moo (DEMOO), Jung Wook-juun (JUUN.J), Chung Ku-ho (KUHO), Kim Suk-won and Yoon Won-jung (Andy & Debb), Hong Seung-wan (ROLIAT) and Lee Doii (Doii Paris).

The decorations in the showroom will be done by media artist Rosemarie Trockel, who plans to fit the venue out with a collage made of the designers' childhood photos and Curtis Anderson, who will use with paper objet. Curator Wilfred Dickhoff will direct the overall display and photographer Jack Pierson, who was invited to the 2004 Whitney Biennale, will put together the pictorial magazine.

“The partnership born from the official exchanges between the Korean fashion world and CFDA will become a great basis for local designers to make advances overseas,� said Yu In-chon, the minister for culture.

The resulting display will also be shown on a website (www.conceptkorea.org) later.

By Kim Hee-sung
Korea.net Staff Writer


http://www.conceptkorea.org/sub/sub.asp?gl...amp;thirdmenu=0

Korea debuts ambitious fashion in N.Y.




Korea makes its official New York fashion debut Feb. 12 through 14, while the city hosts the New York Fashion Week. The festival will feature a showroom-style exhibition titled "CONCEPT KOREA, fashion collective 2010" at the New York Public Library.

The event is co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), in collaboration with the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Asian heartthrob Rain will kick off the opening party set for Friday night in New York.

"It is noteworthy that the event is led by the government while internationally renowned fashion group CFDA is sponsoring," a culture ministry official said.

In the past, the government played only a partial role in designers' overseas advances. This time, the government is offering assistance in varioius areas from creating look books and operating websites to other fashion-related businesses, the official said.






"The partnership between Korean fashion and culture and the CFDA, which is kicked off by this opportunity, will greatly help Korea's competent design and culture to advance to foreign countries in the future," said Korean Culture Minister Yoo In-chon in a press release.

Six teams of top-rated Korean designers -- Kim Suk-won and Yoon Won-jung (Andy & Debb), Hong Seung-wan (ROLIAT), Chung Ku-ho (KUHO), Park Chun-moo (DEMOO), Doii Lee (Doii Paris) and Jung Wook-juun (JUUN.J) -- will participate in the exhibition. Among them, Chung Ku-ho will participate in the New York Collection with one of his lines, Hexa by KUHO.

"Concept Korea" has other offerings, including media artist Rosmarie Trockel, who will present collages of childhood photos of the participating Korean designers, and Curtis Anderson, known for his creative use of natural fabrics, who will feature paper objects inspired by works of Korean designers.

The exhibition will be overseen by well-known curator Wilfred Dickhoff.

Rain, star of Hollywood flick "Ninja Assassin," will open the opening party for "CONCEPT KOREA" while three-star Michelin chef Jean Georges presents diverse fusion Korean dishes inspired by hansik, or traditional Korean cuisine.

The list of attendees for the party is impressive and includes model Naomi Campbell, designers Ralph Lauren and Mark Jacobs, actresses Julia Roberts and Uma Thurman, and New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, among others.


Visit www.conceptkorea.org for more information.

(youngaah@heraldm.com)





By Koh Young-aah








2010.02.12

Doii 'fulfills dream' at London Fashion Week

http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/NEWKHSITE/dat...01002220010.asp


LONDON -- After presenting her exhibition in Paris and again at the Korea Concept Gala in New York, spring has been an international journey for Doii Lee. The Korean designer, who studied at Central Saint Martins and previously of the House of John Galliano and KENZO, showed at London Fashion Week for the first time this season, presenting her collection "Walk in the Forest."

London Fashion Week is the zenith of the global fashion trail; it can also be an adieus trek. A capital renowned for it's fierce variety and dogmatic opinion of style, to make the cut, designers have to appeal to a wider spectrum of tastes and trends and show an originality in their own creativity.

The story of her collection was adapted from a fairytale about a girl named Vasilissa, who was sent by her stepmother to Baba Yaga to get some fire wood. Met by different obstacles along the way, she realized, "It is not the fire that will make me happy, but the divine roses that blossom along the dark path of the forest."

"I was inspired by a Russian fairy tale. it reminded me of myself growing up and made me aware that I am still learning and growing up as a person," said Doii, who heads the fashion brand Doii Paris.






Before the music started a voice projected "I have a story to tell" and 12 strong-red and bright-blond haired models walked to a remix of "Twinkle, Twinkle" by Towa Tei, wearing a forty piece Autumn Winter collection. Front row included Jefferson Hack from "Dazed and Confused" and actress Camilla Rutherford from the movie "Vanity Fair."

Working with Shanghai and London Fashion Week director John Walford and New York stylist Deborah Kossman, Doii showed in the Freemasons' Hall with production company Vauxhall Fashion Scout, during the world's most internationally competitive event.

"Ever since I started studying at Central St Martins, it was my dream to present my collection in London. So now my dream is coming true," she said.

After showing her London debut, Doii will return to Korea to show at Seoul Fashion Week, the home of her collection.

"Korea is my root and I would like to be recognized for my work by Korean people, and it is brilliant to have the support from the Korean government to promote my collection internationally. My production is in Korea and it gives me so much freedom and creativity," she said.

Doii's bold new collection is the glamorous attention-grabbing sister of her previous works. Technically the pieces are finely made with a intense attention to detail in colors of red, pink, brown and blue, finished with faux-fur in silver-fox-gray or her signature sequins. Every button, eyelet, zipper and popper has been carefully considered and executed to a consummate standard. It's Doii's choice's of styles in the detailing that add a convivial flourish that is in tone with the spirit of her collection.

Overall, the whole collection could only be described as enchanting, like the fairytale it was derived from.





By Freya Olsen

韩国时装文化走进纽约“Concept Koreaâ€�晚会纽约举行
纽约=朝鲜日报记者 申晶善 (2010.02.17 15:35)


▲本月12日在美国纽约公共图书馆举行的“Concept Koreaâ€�活动现场，时装界相关人士们正在举行晚会。照片=韩国文化体育观光部提供当地时间本月12日晚8点，在美国纽约公共图书馆举行了韩国时装庆典活动。当天举行了“Concept Koreaâ€�晚会，当地时装界相关人士等大约有640人（主办方估计）出席该活动。“Concept Koreaâ€�旨在帮助国内设计师进入海外市场。

此次活动选在纽约时装周期间举办，向众人展示和宣传韩国的6个设计团队（Kim Seok-won＆Yun Won-jeong、Park Chun-mu、Lee Do-i、Jeong Gu-ho、Jeong Uk-jun、Hong Seung-wan）的作品。活动由韩国文化体育观光部和韩国文化产业振兴院主办，美国时装设计师协会(CFDA)赞助。

在活动期间，“米其林三星厨师â€�Jean Georges Vongerichten在切成小块的萝卜上加入辣酱汁，推出了混搭韩餐。并且，歌手Rain的演出将现场氛围推向高潮。坐轮椅现身的超写实派画家卓克-高斯(Close)评价说：“hexa by kuho服装秀的作品很有创意。â€�展馆馆长Dickhoff表示：“被韩国设计的生动所感染。â€�前来出席活动的意大利RAI电视台记者Pitulan表示：“政府如此大规模地支持时装产业，令人震惊。â€�据估计，13日至14日在图书馆地下举行的六人作品展，共有600多人参观。

另外，政府为此次活动投入了不小的预算（13亿韩元），体现了打造文化强国的决心，并成功地引起了人们对韩国时装的关注。

但要想达到进入时装界和宣传作品的本质目的，可能还需要一些时间。开幕式后Rain的演出一结束，在短短20分钟内，五分之四的参加者先后离开了会场。文化观光部有关负责人强调“时装与艺术的融合â€�，而美方代表的发言则强调了“赞助的回报â€�，从中也体现出双方的分歧。同时，CFDA主席Von Furstenberg在致开幕词时表示：“2006年就任时曾说过要推动美国服装出口。希望明年（为了出口）欢迎美国设计师去韩国。â€�此番发言强调了“礼尚往来â€�。

《纽约时报》14日就此次活动报道说：“证明了亚洲人的创造性对美国多样性的重要性â€�，但在报道中对韩裔美国设计师Doo-Ri Chung给予了高度评价。却没有提到上述6个团队。
http://chn.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2...0217000025.html

朝鲜日报中文网 chn.chosun.com
本文内容归朝鲜日报和朝鲜日报网版权所有，未经许可，不得摘编

Seoul Fashion Week has shared catwalk




It's that exciting time of the year when the fashion-savvy can check out the fashion outlook for the upcoming season.

The 2010/11 Fall/Winter Seoul Fashion Week begins its seven-day run today.

This year marks a special occasion for the bi-annual feat which marks its 20th collection season.

All three major local fashion designer organizations -- Korea Fashion Designers Association, New Wave in Seoul and Seoul Fashion Artists Association -- agreed to get on board for the event this time.

Doing so has been a long-awaited project among local fashion industry insiders. The three organizations had separately held their own fashion festivals in recent years because they continuously failed to agree on the list of designers to show.

The Seoul Fashion Week takes place simultaneously at two venues -- SETEC and Kring in Daechi-dong, Seoul. The main venue SETEC will feature the Seoul Collection, where top designers present their creations.

The list of over 40 designers featured at the Seoul Collection includes veteran designers Lee Sang-bong, Han Song and Sul Yun-hyung.

Doii Lee, and couple designers Steve Jung and Yoni Pai, who recently became acknowledged in the international fashion scene with their one-of-a-kind looks, also participate in the Seoul Collection shows.

Lee Joo-young, the daughter of renowned designer Sul who heads her own brand RESEURRACTION, is also notable, according to organizers.

Lee is famous for having dressed the Black Eyed Peas for the Grammy Awards in February. Her clothes are also known to be frequently worn by Lady Gaga and Marilyn Manson.






Kring, meanwhile, will feature "Generation Next," where rising young designers unveil their unique works.

Lee Bo-hyun of shoe brand Sue.Bonnie and Project Runway Korea season 1 contestant Chung Jae-woong are some of the designers to watch out for at Kring.

Lee is one of the first-generation shoe designer brand creators whose products have been selling well both locally and abroad. Chung, who recently launched his own brand BLNK last year, presents unisexual outfits which suitable for both men and women.

As part of an attempt to nurture global fashion brands, Seoul Fashion Week, for the first time, will select 10 designers who will be given the opportunity to go abroad.

The 10 designers -- who will be chosen by domestic and foreign fashion experts and buyers -- will show their collections at Tranoi, a well-known fashion trade show which will be held in June (menswear) and October (womenswear) in Paris.

"Seoul Fashion Week marks its 10th anniversary this year. The Seoul City plans to actively support leading Korean designers to advance to the global market through the event," said Choi Hang-do, the head of Seoul City's Urban Competitiveness Headquarters.

Fashion week, which has been trying to be more business-oriented in recent years, has secured more domestic distribution channels this year. Home shopping channel CJ O Shopping's prime time show "Style on Air" will sell garments by participating designers during the event.

Its online website www.cjmall.com also features separate shopping malls for designers to boost sales of their brands, while also showing their runway parades.

(youngaah@heraldm.com)


By Koh Young-aah








2010.03.26

Fashion Week Starts in Seoul


A model shows off a creation by designer Han Song for his brand Troa during the spring/summer Seoul Fashion Week in October.
/ Courtesy of Seoul Fashion Week

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter

Fashionistas, put on your high heels and most stylish outfits, and make a beeline for Seoul Fashion Week.

Top Korean designers will be unveiling their 2010 Fall and Winter Collection at the Seoul Trade Exhibition Center (SETEC), Daechi-dong, southern Seoul, from Friday through April 1.

It's been 10 years since Seoul Fashion Week began, under the auspices of the Seoul Metropolitan Government which identified fashion as one of the industries to receive strong government support.

What started as a small local fashion festival in Seoul has now grown into an event with an eye firmly on the international market.

``Seoul Fashion Week has reached its 10th anniversary. The Seoul Fashion Week represents Korea's fashion market and Seoul Metropolitan Government will support Korea's designers to advance into the global market,'' said Choi Hang-do, director of the global economic headquarters at the Seoul Metropolitan Government, in a statement.

Seoul Fashion Week is not just about the gorgeous dresses or stylish outfits presented by Korean designers, but it also means big business.

Organizers said the 2010 Fall/Winter Seoul Fashion Week is now focusing on the global fashion market by merging creative fashion design and a business-type fashion system.

With a new focus on the business aspect of fashion, it is only fitting Seoul Fashion Week organizing committee is headed by Won Dae-yun, a former chief executive officer of Cheil Industries. In a statement, Won said the committee is striving to make Seoul Fashion Week an event that will promote global competitiveness.

Global competitiveness of Korean designers and brands is as important as ever, as they seek to carve a niche in the global fashion market.

To do this, organizers have adopted a business-friendly system that focuses on the buyers and the overseas market. Over 100 buyers from major agencies such as L'Eclaireur in France, Brown in London, United Arrow in Japan, as well as 30 foreign journalists and media, will attend Seoul Fashion Week.

Lauren Lewis, who runs the online fashion shop Glassworks Studios (www.glassworks-studios.com), has been to Seoul Fashion Week in recent years as a buyer.

``Seoul Fashion Week is a great platform for putting Korean designers on the map, but more needs to be done to encourage the larger Korean brands to participate and support the event. This might help to attract foreign buyers who already carry or are considering carrying those brands, which in turn could attract more foreign press,'' she told The Korea Times.

Seoul Fashion Week has also organized smaller presentations by designers, such as Lie Sang Bong, Moon Yong-hee, Juun.J., Sheen JeHee, Sujak, Steve J and Yoni P, and suecommabonnie exclusively for buyers.

To attract more public attention, the Seoul Fashion Fair is being held to showcase clothing, shoes, bags and accessories by Korean designers. Exhibition booths from 100 participating designers in Seoul Collection and Generation Next, as well as fashion companies will be set up at the SETEC Hall 3, through April 1.

Seoul Collection

Ultimately at the heart of this event, of course, is fashion. Seoul Fashion Week will feature seven days of shows by 15 men's wear designers and 30 women's wear designers.

Designers had to undergo strict screening before being chosen to present their collection at fashion week. They were selected after a qualitative evaluation of their domestic and overseas profits, distribution performance, marketing, brand awareness, originality and merchandise quality.

``Seoul Fashion Week is quickly becoming a place for passionate local fashion designers who dream of becoming global fashion design stars. By participating in Seoul Fashion Week, it is understood that designers, whose talent and business skills are acknowledged through this opportunity, have been able to broaden their activities and thus received a greater level of interest and participation from the industry,'' organizers said.

There is a more competitive mood in this season's fashion week, since the Seoul Metropolitan Government is starting a program that will help nurture Korean brands into global brands. Top 10 designers will be selected, through screening by the buyers, press and international PR agencies during Seoul Fashion Week. The selected designers will have a chance to participate in the famous Tranoi trade show held in Paris in June (men's wear) and October (women's wear).

The first two days of Seoul Fashion Week (March 26 to 27) will feature men's wear collections.

Kang Dong-jun will have the honor of kicking off fashion week with his D.gnak collection. Also on the first day, there will be a series of shows by Han Sang-hyuk (MVIO), Song Hye-myung (Dominic's Way), Kim Seo-ryong, Ko Tae-yong (Beyond Closet), Choi Bum-suk (General Idea), Lee Ju-young (Resurrection), Song Zio, and Kim Seok-won (Andy & Debb Homme).

On Saturday, there are six shows from Lee Jeong-jae (BON), Jung Du-young (Fahrenheit Homme), Seo Eun-gil (G.I.L. Homme), Park Sung-chul (Line or Circle), Yang Hee-min (Vandalist by Vandal) and Chang Kwang-hyo (Caruso).

Eyes will be on some designers whose clothing lines have been attracting attention overseas. Lee Ju-young is making waves with her edgy Resurrection designs, which have been worn by the likes of Marilyn Manson, Lady Gaga and Black Eyed Peas.

Ko Tae-yong, who created the brand Beyond Closet in 2008, has expanded overseas, with his clothes now available in New York, Canada and Russia.

The much-anticipated women's wear collections begin on Sunday, with Lee Doii presenting a fresh new collection for her brand Doii Paris. Also on Sunday are shows by Kwak Hyun-joo for Gissen, Lee Suk-tae for KAAL E.SUKTAE and Kim Jae-hyun for Jardin de chouette.

Monday will feature designers Hong Eun-ju (Enzuvan), Han Song (Troa), Im Seon-oc, Park Byung-kyu (how and when) and Gee Choon-hee (Miss Gee Collection).

This season also marks the return of the Seoul Fashion Artists Association (SFAA) to Seoul Fashion Week. SFAA designers Ro Seung-un, Park Youn-soo, Jinteok and Bakangchi will be unveiling their fall-winter designs on March 30. The next day, it will be the turn of Rubina, Park Dong-jun, Shin Jang-kyoung, Kim Dong-soon, Sul Yun-hyoung, Oh Eun-hwan and Choi Yen-ok. Song Jain will also have a show on the same day.

The last day, April 1 will feature collections by Lee Youn-jung (Duchess by Leeyounjung), Kim Chong-wol (Petillante), Choi Myoung-uk, Choi Bok-ho, Kim Young-joo and Son Jung-wan.

New Generation of Designers

A preview of the new breed of Korean designers at Generation Next will be held at Kring, Samseong-dong, southern Seoul, March 27-29.

The 12 designers chosen to showcase their designs are all part of the Generation Next Promotion Program at the Dongdaemun Fashion Production Studio, supported by the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

Designers include Choi Ji-hyung (Johnny Hates Jazz), Ju Y-A (MoMA by YA), Kim Sun-ho and Park Jung-eun (Groundwave), Hong Hye-jin (Studio-K), Lee Seung-hee (Leyii), Kim Jae-hwan (ALANI), Song Seung-ryl (8C11C), Uhm Mi-ri (Giliyate), Han Dong-woo (Irony Porn(o)), Yoon Se-na (Softcore), Joo Hyo-sun (Paul & Alice) and Kim Hong-bum (CRES.E.DIM).

Special Designer Sale

During fashion week, CJ Mall (www.cjmall) will be highlighting participating designers' brands on the online shop.

On the last day of fashion week, a special sale will be held from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the SETEC Hall 3. Some 50 businesses will sell top-quality fashion items at lower prices. Three percent of the profits from this event, as well as ticket sales will be donated to the Seoul Welfare Foundation and the Seoul Youth Employment Foundation.

cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

Emerging designers, high profiles

March 29, 2010

Beyond Closet by Ko Tae-yong / Resurrection by Lee Ju-young / Doii Paris by Lee Doii / Jardin de Chouette by Kim Jae-hyun
The 2010 fall/winter Seoul Fashion Week kicked off last Friday on the largest scale in its 20-year history.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government, which is hosting the event, said the seven-day show will have events with 45 leading local designers - best represented by the internationally recognized Lie Sang-bong - and 12 fledgling designers. That is an increase from 43 and 11, respectively, at last season’s show in October.

In addition to these designers, 50 smaller, low-profile fashion brands have been given spaces in showrooms to display their lines throughout the event. These designers are hoping to clinch sales deals with domestic and overseas buyers through their separate presentations.

The design- and catchphrase-savvy city government has designated 2010 “the year of fostering global fashion brands� and has promised to help 10 outstanding participants showcase their works at Tranoi, the biggest trade show for the high-end fashion industry. The men’s collection will be shown in June at Tranoi and the women’s collection will be shown in October.

Every day from 11 a.m. till 8 p.m., models and local celebrities will take to the catwalks at two different venues in southern Seoul - Setec near the Hangyeoul Station on line No. 3 and Kring near Samseong Station on line No. 2. The “Generation Next� shows with 12 emerging designers will take place at Kring.

The first two days were dominated by the men’s collections. The opener was the D. Gnak by Kang. D line by designer Kang Dong-jun, who debuted in the Seoul Collection in October 2008. Kang said this season’s theme is masculinity, inspired by military uniforms.

Interpretations of battle gear have been widespread since last year and the influences seem to be still rolling, judging by previous global collections including the one in New York.

Other men’s collections included Songzio Homme by Song Zio, General Idea by Choi Bum-suk, Andy & Debb Homme by Kim Seok-won and Caruso by Chang Kwang-hyo. Lee Ju-yong, who owns the brand Resurrection, is one of the better known designers who showcased men’s collections. Her clothes have been worn by overseas pop stars such as Marilyn Manson, the Black Eyed Peas and even Lady Gaga.

Yesterday, the brand Jardin de Chouette by Kim Jae-hyun made its debut at Seoul Fashion Week. The brand, whose name means “the owl’s garden� was launched in 2005 and became popular across destination boutiques in Paris and Seoul with its signature owl logo.

Doii Paris by Lee Doii, noted for materializing classical and feminine qualities through unusual fabrics and embellishments, featured a girl walking into a magical forest like in a fairy tale.

Today, Steve J & Yoni P, Korean designers who have been featured at the London Collection since 2007, are having a presentation session for buyers in a separate showroom. Like 19 other leading designers, they will not have a runway show.

Fashion Week organizers say these presentations are meant for companies to “turn a maximized business result.�

The Miss Gee Collection by senior designer Gee Choon-hee will have a runway show in the afternoon.

Tomorrow and Wednesday will focus on veterans. Tomorrow, Lie Sang-bong, who has been showing in Paris for in the past seven years and is recognized for adopting hangul, the Korean alphabet, patterns in his clothes, will have a presentation for buyers. Lie is expected to dress models in tiger patterns with what he calls the “Korean power shoulder,� as he did at Paris Fashion Week earlier this month. Others showing tomorrow include Ro Sung-un of Nosgun, Park Youn-soo, Moon Young-hee, Jin Te-ok and Park Hang-chi. Wednesday will showcase lines by Rubina, Shin Jang-kyoung and Sul Yun-hyoung, among others. Most of these designers have long been the fashion favorites of affluent older Korean women.

This will be the first time since the fall of 2007 that these senior designers, who belong to the Seoul Fashion Artists Association, the nation’s biggest and most powerful designer group with 11 figures, will show at Seoul Fashion Week.

SFAA’s history with Korean fashion is a long one. The association had been the very matrix of Seoul Fashion Week. It launched its collection in November 1990 and in its footsteps followed smaller designer groups such as the Korea Fashion Designer Association and New Wave in Seoul, which held their own collections in different periods.

In October 2000, the Seoul Metropolitan Government officially launched Seoul Fashion Week, but top designers were reluctant to join. In March 2003, at last, the SFAA, KFDA and NWS joined up, but the alliance didn’t last long. Reconciliations and breakups have repeated since then, as those groups pursued their own interests, according to fashion industry insiders.

Won Dae-yun, chairman of the Seoul Fashion Week Committee, expressed his hope earlier that the unification will last a while this time.

Seoul Fashion Week will close on Thursday with a show by Son Jung-wan. The designer whose jacket-skirt suit combinations have long been loved by brides-to-be and younger female office workers for their feminine qualities, said she will debut a few pieces of her homme collection, along with her existing female collection.

Online tickets are sold-out, so those wishing to attend Seoul Fashion Week should purchase tickets from the box office for 7,000 won ($6) per show. For further information in both Korean and English, visit www.seoulfashionweek.org.
http://www.seoulfashionweek.org/main/

By Seo Ji-eun [spring@joongang.co.kr]

Seoul Fashion Week F/W 2010
Posted Now Mar. 25, 2010 ShareThis
Source : Seoul Metropolitan City

Three groups representing the nation's leading designers will participate in the fashion fair, along with collections by Lady Gaga's designer.

‘Seoul Fashion Week F/W 2010' will be held at the Seoul Trade Exhibition Center (SETEC) near Hangnyeoul Station and Kring, in Samseong-dong, from March 26 to April 1.

‘Seoul Fashion Week F/W 2010,' which marks its 20th anniversary this year, will showcase collections from three groups representing the nation's leading designers. The fashion show will consist of the Seoul Collection featuring the nation's top-level designers and Generation Next featuring 12 up and coming ‘next-generation' designers.

This year, the designers to feature at ‘Seoul Fashion Week F/W 2010' were shortlisted after the event's organizing committee assessed their revenues for the previous season at home and abroad, as well as their PR and marketing profiles. There was an average 3.3 applications for each opening for the competition, higher than previous events.


Bridgehead to promote a global fashion brand

Of the designers that showed off their collections at the Seoul Fashion Week, 10 designers will be chosen as the best designers. They will get a chance to expand their business overseas, including a spot at the prestigious fashion trade show Tranoi in Paris - men's fashion for June and women's fashion for October.

Meanwhile, Seoul Fashion Week is expected to draw about 100 foreign buyers from famous fashion labels such as Recle-ler of France, Brown of London and United Arrows of Japan, known for attending the prestigious fashion weeks in New York, Paris, Milan and London. About 30 journalists from influential media, including the British magazine Dazed & Confused, are also scheduled to visit Seoul to cover the Seoul Fashion Week.



About 100 fashion labels to attend at Seoul Fashion Fair

About 100 fashion labels are scheduled to attend Seoul Fashion Fair on the sidelines of the Seoul
Fashion Week. The number of participating firms at this year's fair is doubled that of last year. Some 20 fashion labels, including the nation's top designer, Lee Sang-bong, will operate showrooms in which to host the press and buyers from home and overseas. The number of fashion labels operating showrooms also doubled from last year because such labels received more orders via their presentations at last year's fashion week.

In addition, young designers at the Dongdaemun Fashion Creation Studio, which opened in December of last year, will also participate in the fair.

A shopping even will be held for ordinary visitors between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., on April 1, in Hall No. 3 of SETEC. Here visitors will be able to purchase high-quality yet low-priced clothes donated by some 50 participating fashion labels.

▣ Seoul Fashion Week F/W 2010

-Period: March 26 – April 1 (7 days)
-Venues: SETEC, Kring (fashion & culture complex)
- Overview

04-04-2010 17:08

Seoul Fashion Week Ends Fall/Winter Shows


A model shows off a richly detailed dress by Lee Doii during Seoul Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2010, which ended Thursday. / Courtesy of Seoul Fashion Week

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter

Winter has just ended but Korean designers have already given their fashion forecast for the coming fall and winter.

The Seoul Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2010 ended after seven days of fashion shows at the Seoul Trade Exhibition Center (SETEC), in Daechi-dong, southern Seoul, on Thursday.

Organizers touted Seoul Fashion Week as the ``largest in history,'' with around $3.4 million (3.8 billion won) in sales. There were noticeably bigger crowds at the venue, with a 20 percent jump to 74,000 in attendance this year. Videos of the fashion shows were uploaded on YouTube, while iPhone users had the chance to watch them on their handsets.

Men's Fashion

Designers presented men's wear collections that were inspired by military and bohemian looks, as well as vintage British and traditional European styles.

Kang Dong-jun, presenting his D.gnak collection that was inspired by the military uniform, created very masculine looks with sharply tailored suits and coats. Han Sang-hyuk surprised the audience with a riveting 20-minute presentation for his collection that was inspired by mountaineers.

At Kim Seo-ryong's show, the audience was treated to a collection of thick overcoats, chunky knit sweaters and staid suits that seemed straight out of the Old World.

The edgy rocker style is always identified with Lee Ju-young, whose Resurrection designs have been worn by the likes of Marilyn Manson and the Black Eyed Peas, and this season is no different. With the works of American director Tim Burton as her inspiration, Lee presented coats and jackets that mixed leather, knits and denim, as well as bold green plaid suits.

Andy Kim Seok-won, also known as one-half of the successful design team Andy & Debb, presented a collection of ``marine'' style, classic suits and jackets. Chang Kwang-hyo melded bohemian street fashion with traditional British design in his collection.

Women's Wear

The much-anticipated women's wear collections kicked off on March 28 and ended Thursday. Lee Doii, who has worked for Christian Dior and Kenzo in Paris, shows why she was selected as one of the best designers by the Korean Culture Contents Agency last year. Her show opened with a mysterious veil-covered woman wearing a lace bodysuit, followed by a collection of dresses and gowns characterized by gorgeous prints and luxurious fur details.

Han Song's latest collection for Troa incorporated elements usually found in winter sports wear, resulting in fashion-forward outfits. Han, known for interpreting elements of traditional Korean culture in his collections, also collaborated mulberry paper artist Ham Seop to create prints that convey the texture of ``hanji.'' The results are unique garments with prints featuring the five colors that traditionally represent Korean culture (yellow, blue, white, red and black), and layered with silk organza on top.

Gee Choon-hee once again showed her expertise in creating utterly feminine and sexy designs, which are usually worn by top Korean celebrities. There was a distinct 1940's mood throughout the show, with female models wearing both sexy dresses and masculine suits.

Kwak Hyun-joo experimented with wild color combinations that echo the richness of the Amazon, to create a sporty but chic collection. Im Seon-oc brought a futuristic sportswear line, with streamlined silhouettes, new quilting techniques and cool blue, red and gray colors.

Song Ja-in tried to express her unique urban sensibility in a collection of stylish, but functional, garments in green and earthy tones. There were crisp white shirts with quirky details, like a skewed collar or off-center cut-out, paired with long, lean skirts in brown and black.

Minimalism and eco-fashion trends were reinterpreted by designers under the Seoul Fashion Artists Association (SFAA). Ro Seung-un kept her collection chic but with a humorous edge, introducing futuristic stripes and silhouettes. Jinteok's new collection once again showed a tribal atmosphere, with models wearing rich fur coats, leather jackets and elegantly draped clothing. Rubina's new collection was undeniably luxurious and elegant, with deep tones of grays, khakis and browns and a feminine silhouette. All in all it was a fantastic finale to what was an exciting fashion week.

cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

Concept Korea II’ to debut in N.Y. Fashion Week
2010-08-15 16:55


All eyes will be on three up and coming Korean fashion designers for some two hours of the 2011 S/S New York Fashion Week which runs from Sept. 9 to 16.

Kwak Hyun-joo, designer of Pucca by Kwak Hyun Joo, “Resurrectionâ€� designer Lee Joo-young, and designer Lee Jean-youn of Lee Jean Youn will showcase their 2011 S/S collections under the name “Concept Korea Ⅱâ€� at Lincoln Center at 7 p.m. Sept. 9. Co-hosted by the Culture Ministry and Daegu Metropolitan City Government and co-organized by Korea Creative Content Agency and Korea Research Institute for Fashion Industry to help Korean fashion designers crack into the highly competitive global fashion market, the “Concept Koreaâ€� project was initiated last February.

While “Concept Korea Iâ€� featured six Korean designers at a showroom away from the main New York Fashion Week stages, “Concept Korea Ⅱâ€� is on the official Fashion Week schedule and is expected to fill 1,000 seats.

In addition to the three designers who will show in September under the category of “New Talent,â€� five more established designers ― Doho, designer of the brand Doho; Lee Sang-bong, designer of Lie Sang Bong Paris; Jeong Hyuk-seo and Bae Seung-yeon, designers of Steve J & Yoni P and Choi Bum-suk, creative director of General Idea ― will participate in the second part of the “Concept Korea IIâ€� project, grouped as “The Talent,â€� in February.

“The Talent� team will showcase their collections at a Business Showroom, separate from the Fashion Week stages.

Participants of “Concept Korea II� — (from left) Lee Joo-young, Choi Bum-suk, Kwak Hyun-joo, Lee Sang-bong, Doho, Lee Jean Youn, Bae Seung-yeon and Jeong Hyuk-seo Concept Korea II

“Unlike other industries, like movies for example, fashion events do not immediately result in orders. Inquiries about making orders start to come in at least two years after the event, as the designers gradually become recognized. So for ‘Concept Korea I,’ we focused on promoting Korean designers, rather than going for some actual business matching right away. But this time, we are inviting buyers to the ‘Business Showroom’ next February, hoping to bring out some actual orders, whether big or small, by early next year,� said Kim Min-seob, head of the Korean popular culture team at Korea Creative Content Agency.

The total budget for “Concept Korea II� is similar to that of “Concept Korea I,� approximately 1.6 billion won, according to Kim.

“We grabbed some good opportunities and found ways to organize two events ― one in September and another in February ― with the same budget as last time when we held only one event,â€� said Kim.

The seven designers that are participating in “Concept Korea II� were selected among some 30 applicants. The jury committee was composed of influential fashion figures, including Christina Neault, executive producer of IMG Fashion for New York Fashion Week, Lisa Smilor, vice-president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America and Mary Alice Stephenson, general editor for Harper’s Bazaar.

Some of the selected designers in the Concept Korea projects, like Choi who is participating in February’s showroom event, however, have already been showcasing their lines individually at New York Fashion Week.

“The designers applied themselves and passed two screening procedures, one by a Korean jury and the next one by an international panel. There were no particular restrictions about the applicants’ qualifications,â€� said Lee Han-nah, public relations officer of “Concept Korea Ⅱ.â€�

Choi said he will participate in the showroom project in February and also present his regular runway show on the official Fashion Week schedule.

“Because ‘Concept Korea’ is organized by the government, it brings a different type of press and buyers from when we organize a show by ourselves. We usually call ‘younger’ media and fashion magazines but the government can bring daily newspapers, for example. My company is pouring in a lot in our New York business right now, so we thought it could be helpful if we can get some more help from the government,� said Choi.

By Park Min-young (claire@heraldm.com)

http://joongangdaily.joins.com/article/view.asp?aid=2932498


Korean fashion hits the stage in N.Y.

February 22, 2011

From left: Choi Bum-suk, Yoni P and Steve J (of Steve J &Yoni P), Lie Sang-bong, and Do Ho presented their collections in New York. Provided by the Culture Ministry

On the sidelines of New York Fashion Week, five established Korean designers showcased 40 new outfits for their 2011 Fall/Winter collections in New York on Feb. 15.

The presentation was part of the Korean government’s ambitious project known as “Concept Korea” that aims to publicize Korean fashion in the world’s most fashionable cities.

The Korean designers are leaders in women’s and menswear: Lie Sang-bong, Do Ho, Choi Bum-suk and the couple Steve J & Yoni P.

Entitled “Cultural Treasures 2011,” the show was held at the David Rubenstein Atrium at New York’s Lincoln Center - the official venue of New York Fashion Week, which ran from Feb. 10 to Feb. 17.

Over 600 fashion buyers, experts and journalists took in Korea’s “Cultural Treasures 2011,” said the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the main sponsor of the event.

Invited guests included buyers of New York department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Barney’s New York, Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.

The government-sponsored event was also organized to promote Korean food.

Following the presentation, guests were treated to Korean fusion dishes concocted by Tom Collicchio, a celebrity chef who co-founded Gramercy Tavern in New York, as well as kimchi, mandu (dumplings) and makgeolli (rice wine).

Collicchio’s fusion dishes included bulgogi (marinated pork) and vegetable rolls.


Choi Bum-suk of General Idea presents his 2011 Fall/Winter collection. Provided by the Culture Ministry

The Korean government has established a showroom in New York’s fashionable Meatpacking District from Feb. 14 through tomorrow so fashion buyers from around the world can have access to Korean fashion brands.

Although no major contract has been signed, the Culture Ministry believes more frequent overseas media coverage of Korean fashion will eventually lead to better results, said Kim Seok-il, an official with the ministry’s Video Contents Industry Department.

The five Korean fashion gurus were picked by the ministry last year in a competition.

Government sponsorship included a presence at the Meatpacking District showroom and expenses for models and publicity.

The designers were responsible for other expenses including transportation to and from New York and their accommodations.

Lie, the oldest and most celebrated among them, has held shows in Paris since 2009.

He is renowned for his usage of Hangul (the Korean alphabet) in his clothing designs as well as in his designs of industrial goods such as cigarette packaging, cell phones and purses.

At Cultural Treasures 2011, his collection was dominated by beige, brown, gold and black with Zen-inspired designs.

Steve J & Yoni P, currently the hottest designer couple in Korea, presented punky patterns on dark materials.

Choi Bum-suk, a leading menswear designer for the brand General Idea, showcased an outdoorsy look inspired by military garments accentuated by the color red.

Do Ho presented an elegant avant-garde look with furs, beads and leather.

The Culture Ministry last year announced a long-term plan to boost Korean fashion’s global competitiveness, which it said lagged far behind the country’s textile industry.

Investing 39 billion won ($35 million) through 2015, the ministry wants to foster fashion labels that represent Korea.


By Seo Ji-eun [spring@joongang.co.kr] 首页 >文化> 走向生活







韩国时装打在纽约舞台

뉴욕패션위크간이상봉과한국디자이너들
2011年2月22日

左起：崔范淑，号Yoni P和史蒂夫杂志（J和号Yoni的史蒂夫规划），李相峰，难道何呈现在纽约的集合。 文化部提供的

在纽约时装周的观望态度，建立了五个韩国设计师展示他们的2011年40秋/冬季收藏在纽约2月15日的新衣服。

这次报告是韩国政府雄心勃勃的“概念朝鲜”，旨在宣传世界上最时尚的城市韩国时尚知名的项目的一部分。

韩国设计师领导人在妇女和男装：李相奉，做何彩范淑，两人史蒂夫体育强号Yoni

这个名为“2011年的文化宝藏，”这次演出是举行庭戴维鲁宾斯坦在纽约的林肯中心 - 纽约时装周的官方场所，存在着从二月10日至二月17号。

600多名时装买手，专家和记者在韩国参加了“2011年文化瑰宝”之称的文化，体育和旅游，这次会议的主要赞助商部。

特邀嘉宾包括纽约百货公司买家，如内曼马库斯，巴尼的纽约，Bloomingdale 's和Saks第五大道。

政府主办的活动，还组织，以推动韩国的食物。

介绍之后，客人们欣赏到由汤姆Collicchio韩国融合，一名厨谁共同创立了纽约格拉姆西酒馆，以及泡菜，曼杜（饺子）和makgeolli（米酒）炮制美食。

Collicchio的Fusion菜，包括烤肉（腌猪肉），蔬菜卷。


崔范-淑的总体思路提出了他的2011年秋季/冬季系列。 文化部提供的

韩国政府已建立了从2月14日到明天在纽约时尚的肉类加工区陈列室等来自世界各地的时装买家可以有机会获得韩国时尚品牌。

虽然没有重大合同已签订，文化部认为更频繁的海外媒体报道，韩国时尚最终将导致更好的结果，表示金锡金正日，与该部的视频内容产业部部长。

5个韩国时尚大师们挑选了由该部去年在一场比赛中。

政府赞助包括在陈列室和肉类加工区模型和宣传费用的存在。

设计师们，包括运输和从纽约和住宿等费用自理。

谎言，其中最古老和最有名的，有自2009年在巴黎举行的节目。

他是著名的朝鲜文字的使用情况，他在他的衣服（韩国语）设计以及工业产品的设计，如香烟包装，手机和钱包。

在2011年的文化宝藏，其收藏的主导力量是米色，棕色，金色和黑色禅宗的灵感设计。

史蒂夫强号Yoni磷，目前最热门的韩国设计师夫妇，提出了关于黑暗物质朋克模式。

崔范淑，一个品牌的总体思路领先的男装设计师，展示了一个由户外看红色突出军事服装的启发。

做何提出了一个与皮草，皮革优雅的珠子和前卫的外观。

文化部去年宣布了一项长期计划，以提高韩国时装的全球竞争力，它说，远远落后于国家的纺织工业落后。

到2015年投资三百九十万点零万韩元（3500万美元），该部希望促进代表韩国的时装品牌。


搜索引擎优化祉垠[spring@joongang.co.kr]

Korean designers strut their stuff
Oct 03,2011
http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/new...spx?aid=2942223


Left: Ten teams of Korean fashion designers showed collections at Le Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris on Sept. 28 on the sidelines of the Tranoï fashion trade show. Entitled “Seoul’s 10 Soul,” the show is part of a project by the Seoul Metropolitan Government to promote local designers abroad. Pictured, from left, are: Choi Bum-suk of General Idea; Kim Jaehyun of Jardin de Chouette; Lee Seung-hee of Leyii; Lee Suk-tae of Kaal E. Suktae; Kim Jaehwan of Alani (seated); Yoni Pai and Steve Jung (on the ladder) of Steve J & Yoni P; Ko Tae-yong of Beyond Closet; Lee Jae-hwan of Jaewhan Lee Paris; Kim Sun-ho of Ground Wave; and Shin Je-hee of Jehee Shin. Provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Government

Right: Korean designer Son Jung-wan of the womenswear brand of the same name poses with actress Kelly Rutherford backstage at Son’s show at Lincoln Center, New York, on Sept. 11 during the 2012 Spring/Summer Mercedes- Benz Fashion Week. The fashionable celebrity, best known as Lily van der Woodsen in the hit U.S. drama “Gossip Girl,” has attended Son’s New York shows for two straight seasons. Provided by Son Jung-wan

http://m.seouls10soul.com/ http://m.seouls10soul.com/withfx.htm http://m.seouls10soul.com/mainHome.htm http://m.seouls10soul.com/designer/main.htm http://koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/art/2011/...9_96000.htmlVOD] Ten designers exhibit "Seoul's 10 Soul" in Paris





Seoul's 10 Soul in Paris from CultureM on Vimeo.

By Julie Han

"Seoul's 10 Soul" exhibition, the global fashion brand project sponsored by both Seoul Business Agency (SBA) and the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) was held successfully at Le Hall des Marechaux
of Musee des arts deco in Paris Sept 28.

The 10 designers are Ko Tae-yong (Beyond Closet), Kim Sun-ho (Ground Wave), Kim Jae-hwan (ALANI), Sheen Je-hee (Jehee Sheen), Choi Bum-suk (General Idea), Kim Jae-hyun (Jardin de chouette), Lee Suk-tae (Kaal E.Suktae), Lee Seung-hee (Leyii), Lee Jae-hwan (jaehwan* lee paris) and Steve Jung and Yoni Pai (Steve J & Yoni P).

This event was attended by local fashion experts as well as over 2,000 international press and buyers.

seoul's 10 Soul Meet&Greet・satisfied the five senses with regards to contents, not just showing the clothes and provide a refreshing and totally new experience for those involved.
It also provided champagne and catering services as well as classy clothes with soft music.

The total of three floors of exhibition space and on each works by the designers greeted visitors with a colorful show.

In particular, Musee des Arts Deco, which is close to the heart of Paris, the Louvre, satisfied the high expectations of press and buyers as the place has played host to various fashion shows by internationally renowned designers over many years.

Most of the press and buyers met designers on the spot and exchanged ideas for costumes by taking pictures with smartphones.

Kim Jae-hwan (ALANI) introduced flower prints on a sophisticated tailored tuxedo look with the theme summer Tuxido.・Steve J & Yoni presented Luxe sportism
with varied colors expressing energetic flower prints and waves swaying back and forth. Paris-born designer Lee Jae-hwan (jaehwan* lee paris) expressed an elegant image of
women using delicate materials such as silk and organza.

Ko Tae-yong (Beyond Closet) presented chic safari look under the theme of e jardin botanique (bugs collection).Sheen Je-hee (Jehee Sheen), who was inspired by Buddhist practice asceticism showed her clothes with the subject of life is suffering.
"I am impressed by the novelty, perfection in the work and artistic presentation of Korean designers.
The quality of women's clothing as well as those of men's wear is competitive in the world market. I hope to have more chance to encounter Korean designers in this field,・Joel Morio from the Fance's leading daily newspaper Le Monde said.

In particular, seoul's 10 Soul・designer and brand introduced the catalog, mobile home, and the designer's collection by releasing a video for localization of the designer in Paris.

Visit http://m.seouls10soul.com for more information.

Kuho opens Fashion Week with taste of Russia
2011-10-17 21:19


Seoul Fashion Week S/S 2012 kicks off six-day run, packed with over 60 fashion shows


Dazzling prints of badges and medals reminiscent of the military outfits of Romonov Russia fluttered from chest to toe while the rest of the floor-length dress was imbued in florescent turquoise blue ― a familiar look for those who watched hexa by kuho’s 2012 S/S collection at New York Fashion Week last month.

Designer Jung Ku-ho experimented with the colors and patterns at the curtain raiser show at Seoul Fashion Week S/S 2012 held at SETEC in Daechi-dong, southern Seoul, on Monday, all the while keeping the cuts simple and almost even rigid to the point that they flattened out the models’ natural curves. Minimal, masculine silhouettes of slim tailored jackets and baggy Jodhpur pants displayed an impressive contrast with fringe details, bold colors and playful patterns inspired by the aesthetics of imperialist Russia.

“I am very proud to see how much the competence of designers participating in Seoul Fashion Week has improved and how the global perception on Korean fashion is picking up. I will be here together to enhance the position of Korean fashion,” said Jung before the show.

Including the unusual participation of national brands ― hexa by kuho and MVIO, both part of Cheil Industries ― there are several changes at SWF this season.

hexa by kuho (Yonhap News)

Samsung D’light building in Seocho-dong was chosen as the venue for “Generation Next,” one of the three divisions of SFW which introduces 10 up-and-coming designers, instead of Kring in Samseong-dong which has hosted Generation Next since its inception.

At SETEC, a total of 27 top Korean designers are lined up to showcase their latest collections at “Seoul Collection” and 10 designers who are seeking business opportunities overseas at “Fashion Take-off.” Three foreign designer teams ― London-based Choi Eudon, Paris-based Rad Hourani and New York-based United Bamboo ― will showcase their collections on Tuesday.

Including Jung, most of the veteran designers were scheduled to showcase on the first day, including Park Youn-soo, Son Jung-wan, Moon Young-hee and Gee Chun-hee.

BIG PARK
http://www.koreaherald.com/national/Detail...=20111017000793
Led by main models Reina and Gahee, members of girl group After School, designer Park Youn-soo introduced his color-and-pattern saturated 2012 S/S collection for his new line BIG PARK. Influenced by stylish girls spotted in neighborhoods all over the world, Park’s new line was launched only last month in London targeting younger customers.

The line was definitely more casual and sporty just like the bubbly attitude of sweaty models on the catwalk, but perhaps a bit lost in terms of theme.

BIG PARK (Seoul Fashion Week)

The key feature ― handcraft patchworks of dragons and tigers reminiscent of Joseon Dynasty covering capes, skirts and jackets ― was easily forgotten as brilliant flower prints and black polka dots were added everywhere. The line was supposed to “celebrates the return of the Oegyujanggak uigwe from France,” according to the program note.

Designer Son Jung-wan’s show was composed of elegant, romantic and wearable garments as usual, with chiffon, silk and jersey as the main materials. Pastel-toned drapes of green, navy and cream variants effortlessly dropped and wavered as the Caucasian models strutted down the runway.

Meanwhile, SFW premiered its two-day run project, “Fashion Blossom in Seoul,” in which designer-aspirant university students showcase their creative collections.

Another notable addition to SFW is “W Beauty & Fashion Week.” Organized by the fashion magazine W, many cosmetics and hair product brands including Aveda, Benefit, Laura Mercier and Nars hold beauty shows and promotional events.

SFW S/S 2012 runs through Saturday. For more information, visit www.seoulfashionweek.org.

By Park Min-young (claire@heraldm.com)

Business-oriented Seoul Fashion Week mixes extremes
2011-10-23 20:59
Menswear designers gain spotlight while some veteran womenswear designers lack experimentalism


Seoul Fashion Week 2012 S/S finished its six-day run on Saturday at SETEC in Daechi-dong and Samsung D’light in Seocho-dong in southern Seoul, attracting about 15,000 visitors every day. A total of 127 brands participated in the shows and the fashion and beauty fair.

About 200 buyers and 100 press members from countries including the U.S., France, Italy and the U.K. attended the show, reflecting the growing interest in South Korea’s fashion industry.

Business booths were better organized than in previous seasons and were busy negotiating deals with buyers. An important aim of this year’s SFW was to serve as an effective platform for Korean designers to showcase their works and actually ink deals with foreign buyers.

Participating designers said they were glad to see more participation by foreign buyers and press. Visiting foreign buyers included those from Le Bon Marche department store in Paris and popular French multi-brand shop Colette. Buyers from emerging markets including Middle Eastern countries continued to rise. The foreign press included editors from Vogue Italy, New York-based online fashion magazine Flaunt and London-based online video magazine Crane.tv.

Foreign buyers were provided with tablet PCs which enabled them to search product databases and make orders online.

Jardin de Chouette (SFW)

Mixing extremes

Exotic vacation destinations was one of the most popular themes for this season’s SFW. Andy & Debb showcased a vintage resort look inspired by laid back vacationers and so did designer Kim Jae-hyun of Jardin de Chouette, who was impressed at the sight of many who stayed stylish even while vacationing at a deserted beach she visited last summer.

Designer Choi Bum-suk of General Idea took the image of the stylish boys he saw at a French beach last year to complete the “Garcon de la Plage” look mainly using orange, mint and shades of green.

General Idea (SFW)

The melding of maximalism and minimalism was another penetrating theme, mostly expressed through lengthy skirts pepped up with crisp pleats or feminine cuts. The Studio K and Andy & Debb showcased an impressive line of pleated skirts and shirts. Designer Park Seung-gun of pushbutton and Lee Jae-hwan of jaehwan*lee gave sexy highlights to their garments by cutting them in unexpected spots and sometimes covering the parts with mesh.

Wild color-saturated patterns in contrast with simple silhouettes was another hard-to-miss trend. Designer Choi Bo-ko painted his collection with vivid colors derived from fine art paintings, Lie Sang-bong printed voluminous and geometric shapes in hot pink, dark purple and aqua mint and Steve J & Yoni P played with flower-oriented prints.

Lie sang bong (SFW)

Menswear outdoes womenswear

Perhaps too mindful of potential buyers, womenswear designers, especially veteran ones, seemed to be rather short of experimental ideas or reluctant to try something new.

While their collections were surely covetable everyday wear, foreign buyers and press questioned whether they were enough for a fashion show.

“Why are they so conventional? Everything was just ready to be sold. They did not need to be put on a show. I don’t even know what to criticize because I am not sure that even was a fashion show,” said one member of the foreign press after watching several designers’ shows on the first day.

Another disappointing point was the presence of so many reruns, as more Korean designers showcase their collections first at fashion weeks abroad.

The fashion-savvy here who saw their favorite Korean designer’s collections in the recent New York and Paris fashion weeks had only the option of seeing the same shows all over again. At the recently ended SFW, about half of the participating designers including Jung Ku-ho, who opened the event, had previously showcased the collections elsewhere.

Relatively up-coming designers and menswear designers, on the other hand, received more favorable responses. Designer Lee Suk-tae’s airy collection of satin and chiffon dresses, mesh-added silk pants dipped into watery patterns of sky blue, gray and white, was especially favorably commented upon by buyers.

Menswear collections which were showcased in the final two days of SFW were praised for their amusing presentation as well as the quality of the collections. Insiders have noted that menswear designers are stronger both in terms of artistry and sales compared to womenswear designers in Korea. Designers Lee Ju-young, Choi Bum-suk, Seo Eun-gil, Chang Kwang-hyo, opened their shows with interesting fashion films and designer Kang Dong-jun ended his show by proposing to his girlfriend on the runway after the finale.

By Park Min-young (claire@heraldm.com)
http://www.koreaherald.com/national/Detail...=20111023000228

Korean designers seek spots on the global stage
Nov 02,2011



Jehee Sheen, the menswear designer behind his eponymous brand, has been showcasing his collection at two of the most prestigious fashion fairs in Europe - Pitti Immagine Uomo in Italy and Tranoi Homme in France - since 2009.

As the first individual Korean fashion designer to make his debut at both trade shows, Sheen initially had a difficult time gaining recognition not only for his brand but also for Korean fashion design as a whole. But the now-emerging designer, whose professional career spans less than five years, believes that consistent exposure of his creative works is more important to his success in the international market than short-term sales.

“It is true that competition is fierce in Europe, but I’ve been steadily making a profit there,” Sheen said. “But in the long term, and for symbolic significance, focusing on the European market - especially Paris - is important. I know some big-name buyers have been watching me and in one or two seasons, I expect some of them will contract with me.”

On Sept. 28, he gained an additional boost when he was chosen as one of 10 Korean fashion designers to receive extensive support from the Seoul Metropolitan Government under the Seoul’s 10 Soul project.

As part of the project, Sheen, along with nine other design teams, were given the opportunity to showcase their 2012 spring/summer collections at “Seoul’s 10 Soul Night,” held at Le Musee des Arts Decoratifs, which is located in the Louvre.

The Seoul city government-hosted event, which took place on the sidelines of Tranoi Femme, was solely devoted to the 10 designers.

“That the Seoul government lent us a hand has definitely helped,” Sheen said. “Korean designers attracted attention as a group among buyers and the press since Tranoi put us in the spotlight after the Seoul city government provided its formal assistance. The state-provided service, ranging from interpretation to an independent showroom, made the whole procedure at the fair much easier.”


Nine of the designers selected to participate in this year’s Seoul’s 10 Soul Night pose at the event on Sept. 28 at Le Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris. Provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Government

Seoul’s 10 Soul is a project that the design-savvy Seoul government launched in April last year. Through the project, 10 designers are chosen to receive support each year, which helps them gain international credibility while also promoting the Korean fashion industry.

Sales by the Korean fashion industry at home and abroad are estimated at 39.5 trillion won ($35.5 billion) this year, marking a rise of 14 percent on-year, according to the Federation of Korean Industries. The business lobby cited exports of Korean fashion products as a major force in the increase.

In addition to “Seoul’s 10 Soul Night,” the three selected menswear designers participated in a showcase at Tranoi Homme in July, while the seven selected women designers showed collections at Tranoi Femme in October.

The Tranoi shows highlight some 900 fashion brands and attract the participation of an estimated 20,000 buyers.

The value of the export contracts that the first batch of Seoul’s 10 Soul designers gained through the Tranoi shows last year amounts to $1.63 million, with each piece by the respective designers valued at between $200 and $400, according to the Seoul government.

Ma Chae-sook, director of the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Cultural Industry Department, said the city government chose Paris over New York, London or Italy as the first destination for the project because of its “symbolic significance” as still the most influential fashion capital of the world.

“We think Korea’s high-end designer brands can raise the overall image of Korean fashion products abroad,” Ma said. “Selling a massive amount of clothing at low prices in gigantic markets like China may give us instant figures. But the city’s focus on high-value items means that even products with low to moderate price tags can see their prices and images upgraded in the end. The ultimate impact on the overall industry will be huge.”


Designers Son Jung-wan, left, and Lie Sang-bong pose with models wearing clothes from their collections at Concept Korea’s showcase at Avery Fisher Hall in New York on Sept. 9. Provided by the Korea Creative Content Agency

At the end of last year, the Seoul government picked designer Choi Ji-hyung of the womenswear label Johnny Hates Jazz as the “rookie” of the 10. She was guaranteed a high-end showroom in the trendiest district of Paris, top-tier public relations services and participation in the Paris Collection throughout 2011.

“It took 10 to 15 years for established Korean designers such as Lie Sang-bong in Paris to make proper forays overseas,” Ma said. “But with the government’s backing, Choi, a budding designer, easily became part of the official schedule at Fashion Week in Paris, and she did it in a short time. Isn’t it amazing?”

On Oct. 4, Choi had her runway show at Christie’s Paris during the Spring/Summer 2012 Paris Fashion Week period, rubbing shoulders with global fashion houses such as Chanel, Christian Dior, Lanvin and Hermes.

On the occasion of the show, she changed her brand name from Johnny Hates Jazz to Ji Choi. The decision was based on advice from global fashion consultants that Johnny Hates Jazz reminds most Westerners of the English rock band from the 1980s.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government isn’t the only entity in Korea that has been active in efforts to globalize Korean fashion brands. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Daegu Metropolitan Government launched a similar project in February of last year called Concept Korea.

While Seoul’s 10 Soul is more focused on tangible business deals, Concept Korea was initially born out the belief that fashion “contributes to boosting the nation’s image,” said Lee Hyun-ju, director of the public art promotion team at the Korea Creative Content Agency, which is under the Culture Ministry.

For Concept Korea, the KCCA, which oversees the project, selects five to seven local designers to showcase their works on the sidelines of the biannual New York Fashion Week.

Although the project initially drew criticism for not providing designers with enough visibility because the clothes were displayed only on mannequins at a showroom away from the main Fashion Week venues, the selected designers are now given a runway show and a presentation at a venue that is close to the action, insiders say.

This year, as Concept Korea celebrated its fifth edition, five designer brands - Doho by Do Ho, Lie Sang Bong, Resurrection by Juyoung, Son Jung Wan by Son Jung-wan, and Steve J & Yoni P - presented spring/summer collections at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall on Sept. 9. Some 500 buyers, press members and fashion industry insiders attended the event.

“The package offered by the Culture Ministry of a runway show and a showroom was extremely helpful,” said Son Jung-wan, who made her New York debut a season earlier without government support. “My fellow designers and I feel that Concept Korea has evolved in a more sensible direction than before, which has helped us develop real business contacts.”

It is not unusual for governments to become involved in spearheading the globalization of fashion. According to Lee of the KCCA, Japan started supporting its designers in the 1970s.

On the back of state-led support, three designer brands - Issey Miyake, Comme des Garcons and Yohji Yamamoto - formed the cornerstone of Japanese fashion beginning in the 1980s. The three are credited with creating the unique Japanese aesthetic and communicating it to the global market.

“In a broad sense, we, the Korea Creative Content Agency, and the Seoul Metropolitan Government are the driving forces behind Korean fashion’s globalization,” Lee said.

Even before the government began paying attention to fashion, however, there was a string of Korean designers who succeeded in the global market. But many of these now-elite designers have struggled in recent years with a decline in market share and profits amidst the entry of premium global fashion labels.

“It’s almost impossible for us Korean designers as individuals to beat the global giants,” said Son Jung-wan. Although she said domestic sales have continued to be resilient, she said she has been feeling a sense of crisis inching toward her because of the fear she will not be able to keep up with the competition.

Local designers say they cannot bring prices down any further because of mounting labor and textile costs.

“Unless they find alternative means to earn profits - success in overseas markets, which may be the most plausible yet challenging route - they can’t possibly survive anymore,” Lee said.

A handful of them - Solid Homme by Woo Young-mi, Lie Sang Bong by Lie Sang-bong and General Idea by Choi Bum-suk, to name a few - have succeeded, but the majority has yet to make a substantial mark overseas.

One example of the latter is Andy & Debb, a high-end fashion label run by a Korean couple who both graduated from the Pratt Institute of Fashion Design in New York. The brand, which features a minimalist structure and colors, became popular among Korea’s well-heeled fashion enthusiasts in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

As they saw their profits decline, the couple turned their attention to the U.S. market and rented an office and showroom in New York to promote their line. They held their own showcase in late 2008 and became part of Concept Korea a year later, but success is still elusive, according to Lee.

“For us Koreans, Andy & Debb is beautiful. But to New Yorkers, the line may not have an edge over Prada in terms of price and design, which is difficult to say but true,” Lee said.

“Still, we think it’s too early to say that they’ve either failed or succeeded because even the brand Hexa By Kuho, which has the backing of Cheil Industries, has yet to bear noticeable fruit in New York,” she said, referring to the company run by the second daughter of Samsung Group Chairman Lee Kun-hee. “But we believe that there should be constant exposure - at least three collections in a row, perhaps - before we come to a conclusion.”
http://koreajoongangdaily.joinsmsn.com/new...spx?aid=2943563

By Seo Ji-eun [spring@joongang.co.kr]

Top Designer to Design Postmen's Uniforms Lie Sang-bong Designer Lie Sang-bong, who is notable for prints inspired by the Korean alphabet or Hangeul, will design the uniforms of 17,000 postmen nationwide. This is the first time that a top-notch designer is doing the job.

A Korea Post Office spokesman on Monday said, "Until now, uniforms for postmen have only focused on the functional aspect and have not been sophisticated in terms of design and color. We are currently negotiating details of the contract with Lie." He said the post office considers working with the designer "an honor."

Postmen nationwide will be able to wear Lie's designs from November if the contract is successfully concluded.

Lie, who takes practical aspect of fashion seriously, received great reviews for his reinterpretation of Hangeul characters with a modern touch at one of the world's most prestigious fashion shows, the Pret-a-Porter in Paris in 2006.
englishnews@chosun.com / Jan. 17, 2012 14:28 KST http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2012/01/17/2012011701803.html