WORDS BY AMELIA BELL
Rejina Pyo is a superwoman. In a flash, the Korean-born designer has become one of London’s luminaries, dressing (and empowering) strong, like-minded women near and far. In fact, celebrating individuality seems forever on the mind of Pyo, who, among her many powers, is making clothes designed for every kind of woman, in every walk of life.
Such was the case for the designer’s latest SS19 show this London Fashion Week. The collection, inspired by the very women who surround her, is a beautiful compilation of eclectic colour pairings juxtaposed with signature, sophisticated tailoring. The message here? Discover, experiment and just do you.
What’s the theme of your SS19 collection?
This collection is a natural progression from last season. It evokes the feeling of what follows after you leave home and that exhilarating time of discovery and exploration as you work out who you are and who you want to be. There are nostalgic references to a time where we experiment with how we dress, mixing and matching old and new, worn and obscure pieces to form our individual style. This collection aims to capture that feeling of freedom, expression and play in a time before Instagram and social media.
What’s the significance of showing at London Fashion Week this season?
London and the women who surround me everyday are my constant inspiration. It’s where I live and where my studio and team are based, so it’s the best place to show my collection. There is always such an empowering energy, and the support from the industry here is incredible!
You’ve often said your designs are made for real woman wearing the
clothes in real life, how so?
I always think of our customers who wear the clothes when I’m designing each collection. Our philosophy as a brand is to think about dressing as an everyday phenomenon around the world that is both mundane and extraordinary. Women play multiple roles in their lives and I want to contribute to that ritual, to offer something special. I love to see how different women interpret the clothes in their own way, showcasing their personality and mood. Seeing the clothes on our customers brings the collection to life!
What pieces from the SS19 collection best exemplify this?
This collection is so playful and has so much personality! I think the suiting in the vibrant pallet or the printed dresses celebrate that balance of modern femininity. Also, the shoes and handbags are beautiful as objects, but don’t compromise at all on function.
Which women inspire you?
I want to dress strong, intelligent and creative women…women who are confident in themselves and who take risks with their sense of style. Women who are passionate!
How does the brand celebrate women and inclusivity? What’s the message
here?
I think the Rejina Pyo woman can be any age and from any place, she is not only about following trends but experiments with how she presents herself to the world, unafraid to take risks and have fun. She’s not defined by how others see her.
As a proponent of longer hemlines and covered-up shapes how do you feel
about the theme of modestly that’s having a moment right now?
A woman should feel empowered however she dresses, whether that is more modest or revealing. A hemline does not define who you are and it should not define how others see you, it is your choice to dress however you feel confident and comfortable!
Finally, what can we expect to see more of for the future of Rejina Pyo?
I hope that Rejina Pyo will grow into a contemporary lifestyle brand with womenswear, menswear, accessories and homeware. The future is full of possibilities!