London-based Taiwanese designer Chen Shao-yen (陳劭彥) has been mentioned as a potential star in international fashion by prominent British international celebrity contact service Red Pages.
Chen was named to the Red Pages Hot 100 list of up-and-coming names in film, TV, music, fashion, literature, new media, sport and politics, becoming the first Taiwanese to make the list since it was launched in 2007.
Celebrities such as singers Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber and Adele, and actress Carey Mulligan, were previously named to the list — compiled in collaboration with industry insiders — before they became internationally renowned.
Chen, who started his brand “Shao Yen” last year, has caught the eye of the fashion industry mainly for the use of traditional knitting techniques that make his collections look bold and innovative.
Red Pages senior researcher Emma Horan said Chen was chosen because he was featured in the August issue of British style magazine Dazed & Confused, designed outfits for Icelandic singer Bjork and was invited by the Selfridges department store to design its windows this year.
Chen said he felt privileged to make the list, along with other big names in so many areas.
“I’m just starting and still have so much to learn. I’m grateful that because of the judges’ selection, Taiwanese fashion design can be seen on this international platform,” he said.
Chen has also been invited — for the fifth time — to take part in London Fashion Week, which will be held in February.
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