Through the Lens of Daniel Xuzhi Chen

Fashion : Meet

15 February 2019

Known in the biz as a “wizard of fabrics”, London and Shanghai-based designer, Daniel Xuzhi Chen’s creations are somehow a combination of flowing and tailored, flamboyant and understated.

Since premiering his Autumn/Winter 2015 collection, XU ZHI has been stocked in major global boutiques, was shortlisted for the third edition of the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers, and has since been named by Forbes as one of Asia’s 30 Under 30.

Now, as he makes his mark once more on London Fashion Week, we’re charting how Daniel’s day to day happens… And why it inspires him!

“I’m definitely very much a morning person – I have a lot to look forward to. I love my route to work from Newington Green to Shadwell Lane and I love my studio. My favourite restaurants and bars are right near by, and I live around there.”

“We’ve been listening to a Japanese pianist, Ryuichi Sakamoto, on repeat to get us in the mood this season. The presentation was soundtracked by his melody, Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence.

This season marks our first foray into menswear. The inspiration for the collection came just one day after the SS19 presentation: I was sat in a cafe feeling exhausted and I saw people passing each other on the street as strangers – and I obviously didn't know them – but I felt like I somehow related to them. It's that sensation which got me started on this whole collection and the performance for the presentation: Everybody has a collective identity and I wanted to do this performance to showcase that.”

“My favourite part of the creative process is seeing it all come together. This is the climax, but I also think the process itself is very enjoyable.

I do what I do because it’s meant to be. Everyone has their own mission – and I’m supposed to tell stories with clothes."