Made In China
To celebrate China’s burgeoning pool of fresh, exciting talent we are proud to present our selection of the country’s best new designers. Introducing our fascinating trio of China-based designers – Ms Min, Chictopia and Helen Lee – this season, all eyes are on the East.
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Printed full flare silk skirt

Ms Min
A graduate from London College of Fashion, Min cut her teeth working at Viktor & Rolf and Ports before launching her own label in 2010. Exquisite materials and expert techniques characterise the beautifully-cut silhouettes from this feminine brand.
What 3 words best represent your brand’s aesthetic?
Simplicity with depth, romanticism with edge and classic with a twist.
Which pieces from Spring/Summer 2014 encapsulate your brand’s DNA?
The pleated blouse with a gathered skirt represents a commitment to fine handwork, precious fabric and draping. The Matelasse vest dress represents structure, simplicity and details, while the black lace dress represents my constant love of romanticism.
How has growing up in China influenced you and your designs?
I am a Chinese woman and as such the values and views of Chinese women are very close to my heart. Being educated in Europe and having the ability to travel rounds out my work and gives it something truly personal which I hope has global appeal.
What’s your favourite Chinese city and why?
China is a huge country with many beautiful cities, but I’d have to say Xiamen, the city I call home, is definitely one of the most special. The constant sunlight, beautiful weather and pace of life, make it a very special place to live and work.
Mickey Mouse print pleated skirt

Helen Lee
Shanghainese designer Helen Lee launched her eponymous label in 2009. A graduate from the Raffles Design Institute and a Shanghai Fashion Week favourite, her designs epitomise a modern, urban woman with an edge.
What 3 words best represent your brand’s aesthetic?
Chic, innovative, positive.
Which pieces from Spring/Summer 2014 encapsulate your brand’s DNA?
The Minnie printed bell-shaped dress epitomises the Helen Lee brand. It’s feminine, sophisticated but with a modern and simple silhouette – the fitted top contrasted with the bell-shape skirt. The Mickey lace A-line shorts also shows the unique fabric designed and produced by our brand, showing our commitment to originality and innovation.
How has growing up in China influenced you and your designs?
My family taught me a lot about our history and culture. My father loved art and put me in painting classes when I was young. My mother loved to make clothes and accessories to dress me up in. Traveling around China is very rewarding as there is a deep-rooted culture everywhere you go and many beautiful things to see.
What’s your favourite Chinese city and why?
Shanghai, I have always loved Shanghai and am inspired by the growing and changing city. It’s exciting, energetic and always new.

Chictopia
Christine Lau was only 24 when she founded her label, Chictopia and her youthful energy infuses the brand with a strong contemporary vision. Born in Beijing and raised in Hong Kong, Lau injects her multi-cultural background into a retro-meets-modern aesthetic.
What 3 words best represent your brand’s aesthetic?
Young, quirky and elegant.
Which pieces from Spring/Summer 2014 encapsulate your brand’s DNA?
Those face printed pieces with asymmetric cuttings as shows the quirky side of the brand.
How has growing up in China influenced you and your designs?
become very interested and open to new designers and original designs, which gives me space to explore my designs.
What’s your favourite Chinese city and why?
Beijing. It is an arty city with a lot of history.