Gieun Chae

Gieun Chae

Fashion Product

HANA

Loneliness is often called the “epidemic of our time”—a complex and growing issue fueled by isolation, individualism, and the effects of social media and the COVID-19 pandemic. Within this collection, Hana (meaning “one" in Korean) explores how products can offer emotional comfort and a sense of connection.

At the heart of this collection is the hand—one of our most expressive tools for empathy and care. Hands are often the first physical connection point, used to comfort, support, and communicate.
Inspired by the power of human touch, the designs integrate hands as motifs: wrapping the products like a hug or appearing to support the wearer, symbolizing presence and reassurance.

Each piece in Hana is crafted to evoke warmth, unity, and belonging. The use of red lining throughout the collection serves as a subtle reminder that beneath status, dress, and appearance, we are all human, connected by the same blood and shared experience.
Image: I began by creating preliminary sketches and collages to explore conceptual ideas and define a clear direction for my work. My initial focus was on the human body as a whole, and from there I gradually refined by focusing on specific parts that particularly interested me
Image: As I refined my concept, I became particularly interested in hands and their role in communicating with others. This sketchbook spread features traced images of hands from collected photographs, which I studied to better understand their form and expressive potential
Image: Developmental iterations and sketches of the products
Image: FInal lineup illustration

Bio

A Korean American fashion designer based in NYC, Gieun Chae explores the intersections of mental health, emotion, and the human body. Incorporating her background within fine arts and craftsmanship, her work embodies unique techniques and concepts from past projects. Loneliness, anxiety, and connection are some themes that Chae took to heart and made sure to include in her designs.

Chae aims to create work that resonates with individuals who seek comfort, empathy, and a strong will to make a change. The infamous quote by George Bernard: “Progress is impossible without change.” A mindset that drives Gieun Chae’s creative practice today.

gieunarchive@gmail.com@g.eun_arch.ve
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