The Real Leather. Stay Different. Chinese leather design competition celebrates the beauty, sustainability and versatility of leather, while recognizing the innovation and craftsmanship that the new generation has to offer. The competition engages with young and exciting designers to directly highlight the history, application and sustainable credentials of leather as a rich and versatile material. In doing so we look to recognize and reward creativity, craftwork and innovation in fashion & design while also creating new exciting ambassadors who can champion leather for the future.
Wu Jingling has certainly proved that fashion has no boundaries with her submission for the ‘Real Leather’ student design competition. We wanted to learn more about her quirky entry that is set to enter the global fashion market (and beyond).
Congratulations for being shortlisted! Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Wu Jingjing, I’m 21 years old, I’m from Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China and I study at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology.
Tell us about your submission.
My inspiration comes from many reports and legends about genderless aliens, who can’t distinguish between male and female in appearance. To show this, my designs feature both male and female characteristics, achieving an androgynous look. Using tough leather and delicate tulle, I have combined rigid and soft embellishments to showcase exaggerated chests and hips as well as wide shoulders.
What are your thoughts on working with leather?
I have always liked leather – the texture, scent and special craftsmanship of it has always attracted me. A lot of leather stitching was used for this project, with embellishments added using different fabrics to create a unique style.
*To find out more and check out the other entrants see our YouTube video here*
The Chinese leather design competition received 416 sketch designs from seven renowned universities and colleges, including Tsinghua University and Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, were submitted for the categories of Apparel, Footwear and Accessories. A judging panel consisting of domestic fashion designers, leather designers of retail brands and leather experts, has selected 54 of the most innovative designs. Winning finalists will then be selected for a product demonstration and award ceremony, planned to take place at Shanghai Fashion Week 2021, with national lifestyle and fashion media in attendance.
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