Arts Thread

Hong Kong Polytechnic University graduate Enzo Chan was one of the many incredible talents who took part in the 2019 Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest YDC during the CENTRESTAGE fashion trade event. Applications for YDC 2020 are open until April 28 2020.

ARTS THREAD's Alan Hau, Head of APAC, asked Chan a few questions to learn more about his collection, background and top tips for this year's graduates.

See Enzo Chan's portfolio on ARTS THREAD

Alan Hau: Tell us about your background?
Enzo Chan Tsz Wa: I’m Enzo Chan Tsz Wa, I graduated from the Hong Kong Design Institute in 2017 and then majored in Fashion Knitwear at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2019, after which I entered YDC 2019 and won the New Talent Award and the Second Runner Up Award, which gave me the opportunity to develop a limited menswear capsule collection with Joyce and an overseas study trip to Europe sponsored by Tomorrow Showroom. In addition, my graduation collection won the Outstanding Menswear Award at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University 2019 fashion show.

Alan Hau: What are your thoughts on ARTS THREAD?
Enzo Chan Tsz Wa: ARTS THREAD is a platform for young designers to share their creative works, in particular young designers looking to build their own fashion label. Here, you could share and explore design ideas from creatives on a global scale, it’s also a platform enabling young designers to collaborate, it is a great opportunity to enhance my design signature.

Alan Hau: How do you think design education can ensure it teaches the skills the creative industries need today?
Enzo Chan Tsz Wa: We need to encourage students to leave their comfort zone and to develop their creativity, don’t just do similar stuff that you have done before or what you have seen. Also, I believe tutors’ role is to guide students in developing their own thoughts and ideas into their design works, such as sustainable fashion because its so central and prevalent right now, and to enable students to discover their own path.

Alan Hau: Can you tell us about your latest collection?
Enzo Chan Tsz Wa: The title of my final collection at the PolyU is, “SINCE 1996”, it is filled with memories that symbolise my life’s journey so far. Personal photographs with friends and family are digitally enhanced and turned into embroidery on jackets, and loaded with details both inside and out, illustrating the significance of memories and its narrative that is inherent within this collection. My aim is to create functional and creative menswear pieces, developing multiple wearing possibilities combined with detachable properties. The diverse mix of materials such as suiting fabrics, knits and corduroy create strong textural contrasts. The oversized silhouettes, multiple layers and subdued grey tones reflect my personal style.



Alan Hau: As a creative, what motivates you and what drives you on?
Enzo Chan Tsz Wa: My latest collection is talking about my own story and memories. I think each of us come from different backgrounds which creates a diversity of thoughts, and for me it is the best way to share this meaning and to highlight my signature style, my story is a perpetual voyage that I will continue to share my memories and experiences, but most importantly, my parents and friends are my motivation to keep driving forwards.

Alan Hau: What are your top 3 tips for fashion design students graduating in 2020?

Enzo Chan Tsz Wa:

• Enhancing the personality and signature of your design style

• Be yourself


• Keep studying and exploring

Alan Hau: Thank you Enzo Chan - we wish you every success in the future!

Read about all the winners from YDC here and remember - applications for YDC 2020 are open until April 28 2020 - view also on the Fashionally website.