For many of us, the idea of launching one’s own business and catapulting it to the starry heights of success in under three short years is, quite frankly, laughable. (Heck, that’s barely enough time to choose a pair of pedi-friendly sandals of a summer morning, amIright?!)

Daniel Xuzhi Chen is the exception that proves the rule; between launching his debut collection in 2015 and subsequently establishing his eponymous label, the Shenzhen-born Central Saint Martins alumnus (of both J.W.Anderson and Craig Green stock) has already scored a hat-trick of nominations – H&M Design Award, International Woolmark Prize, and the LVMH Prize – as well as being tipped by Forbes as part of its 30 Under 30 roster in Asia.

It’s his commitment to construction and material innovation, alongside a proud policy of in-house production and development, that makes Daniel’s practice so incredibly unique; at his heart, he is a storyteller, and each thoughtful collection becomes a vessel into which he pours his narrative.

As he develops his newest season – a journey in art that sees a PVC-esque trench coat play canvas to colourful curlicues and undulating swipes of rich acrylic – we met with Daniel to learn more about his relationship with art and fashion.  


In case you missed it, read our interview with the winner of the MaxMara Art Prize for Women 2018.