A Black and Paper Exclusive
London based Chinese fashion designer interprets feminine looks using progressive materials paired with constructive elements of design.
A graduate of Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, Xu founded his label in 2014, achieving success with his collection available in many prestigious stores in Asia and Europe.
The young designer showed his Fall 2017 collection in Milan during Fashion Week at the Teatro Armani with support of Mr. Armani and National Chamber of Italian Fashion. Cutting edge denim, braids, and the color blue were the central themes along with leather. The collection showed confidence from a young designer willing to go in his own fashion direction.
As a new designer, how are you planning to attract loyal clients?
My brand is very much based on longevity. We are taking time to really assess who the Xu Zhi woman is, and offer collections that will enhance both their lives and current wardrobes. Also, in continuing developing the house style, we hope to familiarize yet still excite our customer season after season.
You use high quality materials, where are they sourced?
It is dependent on the season, but largely from Italy and France.
How did you feel about being supported by Armani and Camera Moda at Fashion Week?
Incredibly humbling and hugely exciting that, as a young designer, our hard work has been acknowledged.
What inspired the deconstructed looks?
It originally came from the idea of trying to imitate brushstrokes with fabric, and how that could be achieved in different ways. This resulted in the deconstructed element you refer to.
What type of woman would wear look #5?
The Xu Zhi woman. Decisive, commanding and assertive – yet approachable, humble and refined.
Where will your brand be in the future?
I think we’re growing organically – it’s difficult to say where it will be, but I’d like it to be in the closets of the woman we’re trying hard to speak to with our pieces.
Xu Zhi collection can be found in Dover Street Market, London, Lane Crawford Hong Kong, and Opening Ceremony, Tokyo.