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 textile artist and fashion designer from South China. His practice explores body, identity, and memory through experimental garment construction and textile research. His early work has been shown at AW21/22 Shenzhen Fashion Week and featured in Horizont Magazine. In 2025, his project Thing in Itself was presented as a solo exhibition at the Constance Howard Gallery, curated by Selvedge Magazine as part of London Textiles Month. The project was also showcased at Blackdot Gallery and Shoreditch Design Triangle for the London Design Festival 2025.

Christine Risley Award 2025 - Sole Winner