Yen Chung Cho

National Yunlin University of Science and Technology

I am an industrial designer with over ten years of experience, specializing in form development and aesthetic design. My background in product design has shaped my ability to translate functional concepts into expressive visual forms, which I now extend into fashion design. My work focuses on the integration of technology, sustainability, and human-centered design. In recent years, I have explored the application of AI-assisted design tools to generate innovative forms, materials, and concepts, creating a new dialogue between digital processes and physical products. Coming from a cross-disciplinary perspective, I approach fashion not only as wearable design, but as a medium for storytelling and future lifestyle exploration. My design philosophy emphasizes simplicity, structure, and emotional connection, aiming to create pieces that are both visually striking and meaningful. Through this competition, I hope to present a design that reflects the fusion of industrial design thinking and fashion innovation, while exploring new possibilities in sustainable and AI-driven creative processes.

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Magnetic Puzzle

Category: Accessories

Competitions: Taiwan Region

Magnetic Puzzle is a modular bag system that fights fast fashion through adaptability and repairability. The system consists of multiple standardized leather modules – phone pouch, wallet, passport holder, cosmetic case, etc. Modules connect via hidden neodymium magnets and brass snap buttons, allowing users to assemble a tote, shoulder bag, or travel pouch in seconds – no tools needed. No more buying separate bags for different occasions. When a single module wears out, replace only that module, not the entire bag. Each module is crafted from vegetable‑tanned cowhide with cotton lining, brass hardware, and waxed thread. Magnetic Puzzle transforms a single purchase into a lifelong, expandable ecosystem – reducing waste one module at a time.

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Repairable Waltz

Category: Footwear

Competitions: Taiwan Region

The most frequently worn parts of the shoe (toe, heel, and midfoot) are designed with "elegantly replaceable" modules. Design Directions: Magnetic Toe Cap: The toe cap is secured magnetically or with tenons, allowing for replacement with different colors/materials after wear, like changing a tie to change your style. Threaded Heel: The heel doesn't use nails but is screwed in thread, allowing users to replace it themselves and extending its lifespan to decades. Removable Upper: A double-layer upper design; the outer layer can be peeled off after wear to reveal a pre-colored leather layer underneath.

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Leather Memory Layers

Category: Footwear

Competitions: Taiwan Region

Dual Truth — The restraint of off- leather exterior dialogues with the passion of vegetable-tanned interior. The suspended heel structure externalizes supportive mechanics, challenging conventional leather footwear vocabulary. Two genuine leathers create a dual temporal experience: the exterior develops personal patina over years, while the interior reveals intimate orange surprises with every wear. Modular heel design extends lifespan; adhesive-free construction ensures repairability. This is not about loud difference, but the wisdom of choosing when, to whom, and which layer of self to reveal. Stay Different is inner conviction, not outer noise.