Jade Kang’s signature style is a skilled combination of tailoring, futuristic urban femininity and contemporary romanticism we caught up with him to talk about his inspirations and how he got where he is today.

Why did you choose to come to England to study at the London college of Fashion?

Before I moved to London I had been working in the fashion industry for 6 years. In Korea the fashion industry is huge but can be quite limited and quite conservative. I felt like I wanted to study more so I just decided to go to London. I found two great course that I was considering but after discussions with the tutors I really understood why I should choose to go to the London School of Fashion. I studied for a BA in Womenswear and because I already had experience I was able to skip the first year. I really enjoyed my time there, there were some great tutors. I was through my studies at the LSF that I was introduced to Giles at Giles Deacon Studios where I then worked for a year.

After launching your own label how were you able to prioritise your own work against working with other designers such as Alexander McQueen and Jonathan Saunders?

Launching your own brand comes with expenses; people need to understand that you won’t necessarily sell straight away. I was fortunate to be able to use my pattern cutting skills to continue to work while pursuing my own line. I literally worked 7 days a week and was so busy I slept in my studio. I think you have to manage your time well and the ability to do that comes with experience.

What advice would you give to any one wanting to start up their own fashion line?

When you’re a student you are often dreaming about a fantasy career. When in college many people don’t understand all the things that come with running your own business. I’d say you either have a rich family or an amazing passion. If you don’t have either then don’t waste your time. Setting up your own fashion line cost a lot of money and opportunities are limited. If you have passion I’d say try but be prepared for the hard work. The industry is so competitive, you may be able to get a job but starting your own brand is something totally different. I’d advise you to do placements before starting your own label just to gain some experience. It is important to not get tired and loose your dream.

What do you use as inspiration when designing a new collection?
With my last collection I was influenced by the colours found in candy and had a lot of fun mixing colours. For my A/W 12 13 Collection I did’nt want it to feel like winter, in-fact I didn’t use black. I wanted to show people how to wear colour. I studied fine art but even I find some colours difficult, I feel you really need to get used to colours. The collection surrounds the idea of being lazy in a beautiful daisy field. It’s pretty , feminine, lazy with elements of romanticism. There are mixtures of panelling, structure and a bridge between the ultra feminine and the strong career women. Next season expect colour blocking , strong shapes and a futuristic feel.

Do you have any key tips for us this season?

Key looks this season are strong, simple, futuristic and minimalistic. Go for styles with feminine draping or something simple with a strong shoulder.

 

To find out more and view the whole collection go to
www.jadekang.com