British-born Chinese Joanne Tse left her home in Bristol to pursue a vibrant and exciting career in the London fashion scene.
Since childhood, she was fascinated by her mother’s talents in knitting and making clothes for family members in the local Chinese community. She began her journey as a 10 year old learning to knit; now she is setting herself for success as a bright and promising Chinese designer in the UK.
Tse’s solidified sense of purpose developed through buying and design internships at Jaeger London, The Collection Design Studio, Diesel and Suzie Turner. She refined her skills in creative pattern cutting, drape, garment construction and hand embroidery, which culminated in her work being showcased in Harrods’ window display for Suzie Turner.
Her combination of passions includes mathematics and textiles. It is no wonder that her designs signify a fusion of her understanding of geometric concepts and reveal an insightful eye for trends.
On China’s rising fashion industries, Tse feels that her Chinese roots has influenced her creativity in a positive way. Her mother taught her the skills of knitting, and from her British upbringing, she could see and compare the differences of fashion between the two cultures and the opportunity to possibly unite them into one. She has also been approached by designers in Asia for collaboration projects, bringing together an east meets west design vibe.
Legacy of Taste speaks to Joanne Tse.
What is it that drew you into the fashion industry?
I never really knew what I wanted to do until I finished my A-levels and thought to myself that I really enjoy designing, making the designs come to life and seeing it on a model.
This inspired me to follow my passion which led me to completing a few internships during my degree (Fashion Design with Fashion Management at University of East London). This made me more interested in pursuing a career in the fashion industry.
Tell us about the inspiration behind the Amalgamation series.
Amalgamation is inspired by the idea of combining geometric shapes and structure, with soft and fluid movement. I wanted to create pieces which have a very strong structure and make statements, whilst incorporating the soft cutting lines in the design.
Who is your favourite designer and why?
I have a few favourite designers that I like. I love Valentino, as every detail has been taken into consideration, creating beautiful silhouettes and fabric manipulation. Another designer is Mary Katrantzou, with her bold digital placement prints, she turns garments into pieces of art.
Who do you wish could model your clothes?
I would like for Erin O’Connor to model my garments as she has that high class, luxurious, yet playful look about her. However, I would want the client wearing my clothes to feel fabulous, whilst emulating luxury and sophistication.
What is the most distinctive feature in your work?
The most distinctive feature within my work is the use of creative pattern cutting, through interesting and appealing seam lines which work well with the female figure
