WOOYOUNGMI: Where Tradition Meets Modernity in Menswear
founded in 2002 by the visionary designer Woo Youngmi, WOOYOUNGMI has established itself as a leading force in menswear, boasting a distinct international perspective. with flagship stores in both Paris and Seoul, the brand holds a coveted spot on the official menswear calendar as a member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Mode Masculine.
WOOYOUNGMI’s design philosophy centers on a harmonious blend of innovation and timeless style. The brand’s aesthetic is characterized by the use of luxurious fabrics, impeccably tailored silhouettes, and a bohemian spirit that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship.This unique approach has garnered WOOYOUNGMI a loyal following among discerning fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
In 2020,WOOYOUNGMI took a bold step forward by introducing a gender-borderless series,championing the concept of a “shared wardrobe” between men and women. This progressive vision continues to evolve each season,with the brand constantly pushing boundaries by exploring cutting-edge fabric technologies and redefining the very notion of luxury. Through intricate embroidery, bold printing techniques, and a seamless fusion of tradition and modern technology, WOOYOUNGMI crafts a compelling narrative with each collection.Spring/Summer 2025: A Celebration of Cultural Fusion
The Spring/Summer 2025 collection delves into the fascinating concept of ABK (American-Born Korean),a term that encapsulates the vibrant intercultural communities that have emerged over the past century due to waves of immigration. This concept represents a beautiful tapestry of diverse lifestyles woven together into a unique and eclectic wardrobe style.
WOOYOUNGMI expands the ABK concept further, exploring the shared style territories between South Korean and global cultures. drawing inspiration from diverse subcultures such as yuppie, preppy, surf bohemian, agri-utility, and even baseball uniforms, the collection presents a captivating dialog between the past and the future.
Through the lens of WOOYOUNGMI’s forward-thinking Seoul perspective, the collection transcends mere fashion, becoming a powerful statement on cultural exchange and the evolution of style. This season marks the brand’s most artisanal collection to date,deeply rooted in Korean craft traditions while embracing a global outlook.
A Fusion of East and West: OKYC PROJECTS and SOLID HOMME Unveil Spring/Summer 2025 Collections
The fashion world witnessed a captivating blend of Eastern and Western aesthetics as OKYC PROJECTS and SOLID HOMME presented thier Spring/Summer 2025 collections in Shanghai.Held on December 18, 2024, at the Entrepreneurship Building on Sichuan Middle Road, the media preview marked a meaningful moment in the intersection of style and cultural exchange.
OKYC PROJECTS: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
OKYC PROJECTS’ collection drew inspiration from the rich tapestry of Korean heritage,reimagining traditional elements through a contemporary lens. The “Wild East” theme permeated the designs, evident in durable overalls, twill jeans, and jackets that evoked a sense of rugged individualism.
the collection showcased a harmonious blend of textures and materials. Corded suede jackets, suede and denim vests, and knitted varsity jackets added a touch of sporty sophistication. Knitted collared polo shirts, plaid shirts, and boga shirts, inspired by Korean knot art, celebrated the beauty of handcrafted details.
WOOYOUNGMI’s minimalist and graphic aesthetic shone through in wooden surf accessories adorned with hand-painted WYM logos,mixed-material sneakers,woven leather loafers,and hand-crocheted tops. Coats featuring mesh materials with bold graphic V-shaped knitted skirts added a futuristic edge.
The Korean savannah came alive on tapestry trucker suits and bags, incorporating imagery from ancient Korean landscape paintings.A hand-painted zigzag pattern, inspired by historical Korean patchwork, bridged the gap between tradition and modernity, appearing on nylon bomber jackets, reversible jackets, jersey shirts, surf tops, linings, waistbands, and bags.
ABK: A Transcontinental Journey of Style
ABK’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection embarked on a transcontinental journey, fusing the relaxed formality of American yuppie tailoring with the bohemian spirit of the East.
The collection featured tailored pieces paired with shirts and ties, showcasing a elegant yet approachable style. Flowing silk suits and coats, reminiscent of ceremonial attire found in oriental temples, added a touch of ethereal elegance.SOLID HOMME: A Cultural Exchange
The collaboration between OKYC PROJECTS and SOLID HOMME marked a significant moment in the fashion world, highlighting the power of cultural exchange and the beauty of blending diverse aesthetics. The Spring/Summer 2025 collections promise to be a captivating fusion of East meets West, setting new trends and inspiring fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
SOLID HOMME: Exploring the Uncharted in Spring/Summer 2025
SOLID HOMME, a leading force in contemporary menswear, is renowned for its impeccable tailoring, innovative use of fabrics, and forward-thinking designs.The brand consistently pushes boundaries, redefining classic menswear for a global audience.
Their Spring/Summer 2025 collection, aptly titled “AFTERHOURS,” takes inspiration from the spirit of exploration and discovery. SOLID HOMME invites us to shed the constraints of urban life and embrace the beauty of the unknown, both internally and externally.
This season, the brand reimagines practicality through a lens of adventure. Relaxed silhouettes and layered looks offer both style and functionality, while glimpses of skin hint at the collection’s outdoor roots.
Imagine a suede mountaineering vest layered over nylon shorts and topped with an expedition hat – a modern explorer’s uniform ready to tackle any challenge. Suits are paired with hiking poles, expert hiking shorts are combined with cozy terry hoodies, and crocheted tops are juxtaposed with sleek nylon jackets.
The collection’s color palette reflects the journey itself, with organic gradients of faded olive green, dusty purple, apple green, peach, and light blue symbolizing the transition from darkness to light on the trail.
SOLID HOMME’s commitment to its heritage is evident in the use of classic fabrics like tweed and timeless base colors in various shades of gray. Thes elements subtly weave together the brand’s past and present,creating a sense of anticipation and excitement,much like a climber poised at the start of an expedition.
Spring/Summer 2025 is a testament to SOLID HOMME’s ability to blend urban sophistication with a thirst for adventure, reminding us that true style lies in embracing the unknown.
East Meets West: A Double Bill of Masculine Style From Seoul & Shanghai
The intersection of tradition and modernity is a compelling theme in menswear, and recently, two prominent brands – WOOYOUNGMI and the collaborative duo of OKYC PROJECTS and SOLID HOMME – offered compelling interpretations at their Spring/Summer 2025 presentations.Both designer spotlights offer intriguing glimpses into the evolving landscape of menswear, embracing cultural influences and pushing aesthetic boundaries.
WOOYOUNGMI: A Tapestry of ABK Identity
WOOYOUNGMI’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection,presented in Paris,delved into the concept of “ABK” – American-Born Korean – a label signifying the vibrant cultural tapestry woven by generations of immigrants. This collection transcends simple fashion, becoming a sartorial exploration of identity, cultural exchange, and the evolution of style.
The Seoul-based brand skillfully blends Korean heritage with global influences,drawing inspiration from diverse subcultures such as yuppie,preppy,surf bohemian,and even the iconic American baseball uniform. This juxtaposition creates a compelling visual dialog between past and future, East and west.
WOOYOUNGMI’s signature craftsmanship is evident throughout the collection. Rich fabrics, impeccable tailoring, and intricate embroidery create a sense of timeless elegance. The inclusion of traditionally korean elements, such as handcrafted boga shirts, further reinforces the brand’s commitment to cultural preservation alongside modern innovation.
OKYC PROJECTS & SOLID HOMME: rugged Individualism Meets Korean Heritage
Across the globe in Shanghai, OKYC PROJECTS and SOLID HOMME joined forces for a showcase of masculine cool, deeply rooted in Korean tradition while embracing a contemporary streetwear aesthetic.
The “Wild East” theme permeated OKYC PROJECT’S collection, conjuring images of rugged individualism through durable overalls, twill jeans, and jackets. A rich blend of textures and materials – corded suede,denim,knit varsity jackets – added depth and sophistication.
but it was the intimate details that truly shone. Athletic-inspired knitted collared polos, plaid shirts, and Korean knot-inspired boga shirts showcased a commitment to handcrafted artistry. Accessories like wooden surf pieces with hand-painted WYM logos and bold graphic sneakers added a contemporary edge, proving that tradition and modernity can co-exist harmoniously.
both WOOYOUNGMI and OKYC PROJECTS & SOLID HOMME demonstrate that menswear is not simply about clothing; it’s about storytelling. They weave narratives of cultural identity, innovation, and the beautifully complex tapestry of human experience. These collections offer a glimpse into a future where fashion transcends borders and celebrates the richness of diverse cultural influences.
