ASHLYN FALL/WINTER 2022 “Identity”
The provokes are constant; complex and global. To the environment, humanity, health, to well-being, the economy, systems, resources and more. To create and produce during these challenging times demands courage, prevalence, and an openness to change.
The relentless hunger for newness feeds a cycle of consumption and waste. The quest for more, for the disposable, feeds the prevailing way of fast fashion. Beauty is lost. Artistry is lost. Quality is lost. We must ask ourselves, what is necessary? As a designer, ASHLYN Creative Director, Ashlynn Park questions her role in a system where waste has become the norm. As a mother, she grapples with providing a better world for her daughters. She channels her work to find better practices and to force change in her quest to protect beauty, protect the planet, protect the children.
Facing the current state of chaos and unpredictability, Park taps into the deep reserves of her resilience. The ASHLYN FW22 collection explores her unique identity through the terrains of personal history. Milestone points along the way of life, a deliberate return to the happy memories of the 90’s: in Tokyo where she was educated and first employed, and in New York, where she moved in her 20’s and discovered her independence. Moments of fun and joy, a time when love triumphed above all.
Grey wool stripes and white poplin shirting hint at school uniforms, while miniskirts and oversized pants reflect the influence of youth and the early Japanese avant-garde. Stacked shirting is layered to form a bustier with a raw edge collar that unexpectedly drapes to the front. A velvet striped jacket with padded puff sleeves fashioned in the shape of a heart, and filled with a mosaic of scrap fabrics, alludes to a time of personal joy and freedom. A partially deconstructed fine tailored blazer is paired with wide leg trousers. A luxurious shirtdress is draped from a single piece of silky black satin, constructed with Zero Waste product.
Outerwear explores classic forms in various proportions and materials: an oversized trench coat and single-breasted jacket in wool twill Melton, both trimmed with contrast color raw edge, a cropped trench in supple leather, and cropped two-layered jacket with ruched sleeves and rounded hem. Fantasy takes shape in the form of an exaggerated gown with deconstructed shirt and cage details. A spectrum of grey and blue muted colors is peppered with deep autumn reds.
ASHYLN garments are pre-ordered, never mass-produced, to ensure that all products hold intention. Waste is eliminated through thoughtful cutting and purposeful use of scrap materials. All materials are responsibly sourced, mostly from Japan, and ethically made by hand in New York City.
