Profile: Ka Yee Cheung – Real Leather Design Competitions

Ka Yee Cheung

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

A costume designer in my own right with a distinctive personal aesthetic and good communication and discussion skills, I am very interested in the issue of environmental sustainability in the fashion industry. With keen attention to detail and a sense of time, my process is creative as much as it is effective at fusing aesthetics and usability. I feel that for every piece they must not only look good, they have to encourage comfort and performance, all that while respecting our planet. I am interested in experimenting with sustainable materials and methods. I’m experimenting with sustainable fabrics including organic cotton, hemp and recycled polyester, and more innovative materials such as Tencel and Piñatex. Using recycled materials to create unique visions formed through beauty and responsibility, proving that stylish and sustainable fashion are not mutually exclusive. My design process requires collaboration. My process involves in-depth work with clients about their requirements, long-term goals and value systems so that every piece we create is one that makes a positive impact on the environment. I strive to create clothes that make its wearers feel confident and make choices that are mindful while flaunting their individuality. My dream is to promote sustainable fashion and show that you can be fashionable while making green choices. Through education and sustainable practice, I hope to join a movement that embraces slow over fast, quality products over passing trends. In addition to my work, I aspire to be a catalyst for positive change and promote a more sustainable and mindful fashion industry.

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Category: Apparel

Competitions: International

I am developing a single, new fashion product crafted from genuine, ethically sourced cattle leather. The garment is designed to provoke thought about our planet’s future and fight waste. In this age of fast fashion, I believe it is increasingly important to source materials and create highly visually defined garments while maintaining a level of sustainability and ethics. It will also present with a new tailored-like silhouette—elegant yet functional for a seamless transition from a casual to a formal setting. I want to include purposeful designs, such as asymmetrical lines, that celebrate the beauty and texture of the leather. This makes the piece not only visually more interesting but also ensures that the garment is wearable for different events. I aim to ensure that consumers are aware of responsible consumption, the value of using proper materials, and the importance of responsible sourcing by producing high-end products made from ethically sourced cattle leather. Every piece will be made to perfection, transforming the garment from just a fashion item. I design with durability in mind, as I want customers to buy a long-lasting piece instead of just disposable fast fashion, so my product is as permanent as possible. Besides the design, I would like to incorporate eco-friendly methods throughout the production process, including the use of natural dyes and zero waste practices. This piece is not only a statement; it can open the dialogue on the environment in fashion. I hope that the wearers will discover the craft of each piece and be more conscious of how they update their own wardrobes. I hope to contribute to a more significant movement of conscious fashion choices and environmental mindfulness by sharing this high-quality leather wear.