Thing in Itself

Thing in Itself explores the fluidity of masculinity and identity, articulated through a collection centred on a reversible tailored suit that integrates multifunctional elements, including a baby carrier, an apron and a pair of engageante-style sleeves. Inspired by my great-grandfather’s gentle presence in a Chinese tunic suit, the design translates caring gestures into structural garment language.

Each garment—fluid, hybrid, and genderless—resembles an orchid blooming under every gaze, embodying a softness as strength, and does not dictate who one should be, but frees one to become.

Ping Chen is a London-based artist and fashion designer from South China. His practice explores the relationships between body, identity, memory, and cultural heritage through experimental garment construction, textile research, and material-based practice. His project Thing in Itself has been presented at London Design Festival and London Textile Month. In 2026, he was selected to exhibit at FASHIONCLASH Festival and Dutch Design Week. His work reimagines clothing as a site where memory, care, and cultural narratives are embodied, negotiated, and transformed through making.

Christine Risley Award 2025 – Sole Winner
International Design Awards (IDA) 2025 – Bronze Award
Mittelmoda The Fashion Award 2026 – Finalist
FUYI Creative Futures – London Edition 2026 – Longlisted