This summer, Browzwear, iCare, and Plus One, a subsidiary of Yee Tung Garment, embarked on an exciting journey together! Teaming up with nine enthusiastic students from the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), we tapped into the power of 3D technology to weave vibrant narratives through the ‘Inclusive Designer Internship Program’, redefining the dynamic intersection of fashion and inclusion.
From July 24th to August 26th, we brought excitement to our weekly 3D clothing classes, guiding students in designing garments for individuals with immobility. As they honed their skills, they also learned to connect with the needs of this community on a deeper level, infusing their work with empathy and compassion. The students’ creations are not just designs; they are vibrant expressions of inclusion and a passionate desire for a better life for all.
At the Presentation Day on August 26th, we were thrilled to witness the students' incredible achievements! Among the standout projects, Kathy Pang and Lau Tin Yan dazzled us with their innovative designs for wheelchair users. Their work brilliantly prioritized both health and comfort, focusing on functionality without sacrificing style. They crafted garments that are a breeze to put on and take off, resulting in stunning pieces that are visually appealing and exceptionally practical for daily life.
Lau Tin Yan’s designs feature invisible side zippers, fishtail hems, and sleeveless silhouettes that prioritize comfort and freedom of movement. She selected satin fabrics for their smoothness, washability, and durability, enhanced by a lovely drape. The prints draw inspiration from rich Chinese cultural elements like bamboo and celadon, infused with vibrant chocolate hues, creating a beautiful blend of tradition and modern flair.
Kathy Pang’s designs cater to individuals who spend extended time in a wheelchair. She created a skirt with removable padding at the hips for extra softness and support. The detachable sleeves feature a magnetic zipper at the center front, making them easy to wear. The top and skirt are designed as separate pieces, but they can be styled individually or combined, enhancing both the wearability and accessibility of the garment.
We were truly inspired by Cheung Ho Yin’s innovative work. He introduced the concept of “Touchable Clothing” to tackle the challenges faced by the visually impaired when shopping for and wearing clothes. This groundbreaking design features a touchable Braille label and a built-in NFC chip, allowing users to access product information and matching suggestions quickly. Cheung also employed embossed printing techniques and various knitting methods to enhance the tactile quality of patterns and stripes. This empowers visually impaired individuals to intuitively understand and select garments through touch, granting them greater dignity, confidence, and fashion autonomy.
Browzwear is proud to be part of this impactful program, and we are truly impressed by the talent and compassion of these young designers. We eagerly anticipate continuing our journey with 3D technology to empower them to create a better world for all in the future!