Junxiang Liao

We see fashion not merely as a surface phenomenon but as a dynamic process that reveals the underlying essence of social and individual tensions. This approach allows us to perceive clothing as more than just aesthetic objects; they are mediums through which the deeper forces shaping identity and society are expressed and contested.

From a Hegelian perspective, the essence of our designs is revealed through their form, color, and structure, illustrating that these external features are not superficial but are rich expressions of the social, cultural, and historical forces that shape identity. However, invoking Lacan’s notion of “not-all,” we acknowledge that identity is never fully captured or finalized through these forms. It remains fluid, constantly evolving, and inherently incomplete, much like the garments themselves.

Wearers engage with this dynamic process by transforming the garment, symbolizing the active role individuals play in shaping and reshaping their identities. Just as the essence of the garment is never static, the identity of the wearer is always in motion, never fully defined or confined by social norms or expectations.