Profile: Heenyoung Choi – Real Leather Design Competitions

Heenyoung Choi

Asia University

Hello, I am Heenyoung Choi, a 22-year-old student currently majoring in Fashion Design at Honam University in South Korea. I believe that the true beauty of fashion transcends temporary trends and superficial glamour; it finds its ultimate value when it harmoniously coexists with our environment and nature. To integrate the core principle of sustainability into the essence of fashion design, I have dedicated myself to experimenting with the potential of natural materials, such as Hanji (traditional Korean paper), and reinterpreting them into modern silhouettes. Through these research processes, I have been recognized in multiple design competitions, consistently proving the infinite aesthetic value and innovative alternatives offered by eco-friendly materials. My lifelong aspiration to become an Haute Couture designer is a sublime creative journey that goes beyond simple garment construction. It is an endeavor to realize the values of 'Slow Fashion'—creating pieces that remain cherished over time through meticulous craftsmanship, minimizing waste in the production process, and maximizing the inherent charm of the materials. Furthermore, the sense of responsibility I developed as a team leader in various university projects, combined with the empathy gained through consistent community service, serves as the vital foundation for my design philosophy. Through this competition, I wish to deeply connect with the audience through works that balance artistic inspiration with a sincere commitment to the environment.

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FRAGMENTED TRAJECTORY

Category: Apparel

Competitions: International

This collection explores the maturity of the human inner self, which grows increasingly resilient through life experiences. It draws inspiration from the strength found in adversity, fusing the imagery of emotional wounds with the profound historical footprint of Korea. By reassembling these elements, the collection visualizes the transformation of pain into an inner strength and unyielding self-confidence. The main piece is a bold avant-garde reinterpretation of traditional Hanbok aesthetics. A rigid black corset serves as the core, visualizing a fortified inner spirit. Over this structure, the sharp lines of the dongjeong and git, along with the fluidity of the goreum, are dismantled, twisted, and reconstructed into a striking, three-dimensional form. Furthermore, the collection utilizes dense pleating and voluminous layering to express the complex path of overcoming hardship, while traditional deep green and red fabrics create a vibrant contrast against the black, infusing a sense of resilient vitality. This work transcends mere aesthetics by capturing the noble spirit of humanity. Through the use of fragmented gold leaf patterns that symbolize the warmth of healing, and intricate knots and norigae tassel decorations that act as a metaphor for binding the shattered pieces of the heart, the collection conveys a message of hope and resilience. These pieces are designed to be cherished over time; they are not just garments, but artifacts of healing that offer a profound emotional connection, ensuring their value remains timeless as they embody the enduring strength of the human spirit.