Vancouver Fashion eZine - Online Magazine | Art Institute Fashion Student

"Ian Chen, a young local designer with the heart of vintage classic, is inspired by the untraceable little details in life. His obsession with the past leads to an unexplainable love for its legacy. His love and inspiration cannot be explained by words. Only those who have been truly touched by the fluidity of art can understand the beauty of visual communication ...(from Ian's professional statement)." An inspired men's-wear designer, this Art Institute student graduating in June brings a fresh approach to classic men's wear by taking elements from the past and adding unique twists to take them in a new direction.

Fashion Design was never a career Ian considered growing up. Born in Taiwan he was sent to Canada at the age of 16 to attend school. Regular studies didn't inspire him and after graduation he decided to learn about Fashion Styling. The Art Institute appealed to him because it would take students from square one and with their encouragement Ian broadened his horizons to include Fashion Design. His parents were initially hesitant about this career choice, but they have backed him 100% and even helped him stay on track during moments of doubt. "I was kind of confused about whether combining an interest in fashion with a career might not be a good choice and I was going to change to retail management…but my mom said you're not going to change…half way through the program, so I had to finish." Now he is grateful for that advice. What was most difficult initially was a total lack of sewing experience, "I was a disaster". Another hurdle was learning the proper structure for men's wear as most design programs focus on women's wear. With determination, a good textbook and supportive teachers these challenges were met.

Ian's graduation collection titled "The Very Good Years" is a tribute to past designers who have paved the way. Inspiration came easily. "I don't just make classical stuff; I do my own stuff, my own way…ideas just pop into my head." The line has traditional elements combined with interesting details such as asymmetrical hems and waistbands. The 4-garment collection starts with an unusual gray wool suit. The jacket has a classic look through the shoulders and lapels but an unusual diagonal front opening and curved hem. Black stripes are placed down the sides of the pants and the suit is paired with a white polo shirt that sports a matching diagonal opening. Second, is a stunning men's cape with an asymmetrical hem sewn in black cashmere and lined with purple, black and green tartan. Black pants with pockets lined in the same tartan and a white polo shirt with an extended placket complete the ensemble. The final pieces include a wrap cardigan in burgundy paired with teal blue pants and a trench robe shirt sewn in a bright fuchsia, yellow and black plaid combined with navy pants. The fit of all pants in the collection is extremely slender. "The Very Good Years" can best be described as classic with a twist.

After graduation Ian is hoping to gain experience working in the industry and possibly pursue further studies in shoe design and knitwear. For now he is preparing for an upcoming fashion show in August. His final thoughts, "Never give up…(the) results may not be what you expected, but at least you tried…Never expect too much. Just put in as much effort as you can."