Liu Min has never been one to follow the pack. The Chinese fashion designer is leading a new generation of designing talents who have become household names thanks to their combination of modern simplicity with a hint of romanticism.
Unlike most of her peers, Min’s avoided larger cities and based her label in Xiamen, China. Her designs are influenced by a wide range of eras and styles: traditional Chinese style, mid-century couture and retro elegance combine to create one-of-a-kind garments.
After graduating from the London College of Fashion in 2007, Min launched her brand Ms Min in 2010. She created her first collection, including just a few garments, on a small sewing machine in her 60-square-meters home. Now, her brand is sold by some of China’s best boutiques. She has created a buzz on the global fashion scene, attracting even the attention of Sarah Ruston, fashion director of Lane Crawford, who immediately took interest in her work and became her mentor.
A few weeks ago, Liu Min presented her new Spring/Summer Collection at Centrestage, one of Asia’s premier fashion events, featuring fashion shows, designer sharing sessions, fashion industry roundtables and trend forecast seminars.
Her collection is a lesson in functional luxury, with dresses that are suitable for a black tie event as well as for the office. Elegant dresses with voluminous silhouettes, oversized bows and layered fabric: Min has achieved the perfect balance of modern romance and glamour.
