In today’s fashion landscape, designers are increasingly challenged to create pieces that transcend seasonal trends while also addressing the demand for sustainability, cultural relevance, and personal expression. The current state of fashion is one of rapid evolution, where the pressure to innovate is balanced by a renewed appreciation for heritage and craftsmanship. Many brands are turning to traditional techniques to create timeless designs, blending them with modern aesthetics to appeal to a globalized, fast-paced world.
Amidst this dynamic environment, YUECEN has emerged as a brand that honors both the past and the future. Co-founded in 2023 by Yuecen Ricky Cai and Churou Wang, the brand is carving its place by merging the intricate artistry of Shanghainese heritage with the energy of urban, cosmopolitan design. Their collections not only showcase impeccable craftsmanship but also tell stories of cultural convergence, challenging the boundaries of what fashion can communicate. To understand more about their philosophy and vision, we sat down with Cai and Wang to discuss how YUECEN is shaping the future of fashion.
Adana Vincent: YUECEN has gained a lot of attention recently, blending tradition and modern aesthetics. What inspired you to create this fusion?
Yuecen Ricky Cai: For me, fashion is much more than just clothing. It’s about telling stories—stories of culture, identity, and adaptability. When I started YUECEN, I wanted to merge my heritage with the influences I’ve absorbed from living in global cities like Shanghai and New York. It’s about finding a balance between traditional craftsmanship and the modern, structured beauty of urban life. That tension between old and new is what drives the brand.
AD: You’ve worked with several notable figures in the entertainment, arts, music, and finance world during your time at Bode. How did that experience shape your vision for YUECEN?
YRC: Working at Bode was pivotal for me. It gave me an opportunity to work with high-profile clients, but more importantly, it taught me the importance of storytelling in fashion. Every piece we created was deeply rooted in a narrative, and that’s something I’ve carried with me into YUECEN. Whether it was working for a famous actor, musician, or athlete, I learned that fashion could be an extension of who you are.
AD: Churou, you’ve had a multifaceted career in fashion, visual arts, and design. How do you bring those experiences into your work at YUECEN?
Churou Wang: My background allows me to look at fashion from multiple angles. I’ve always been fascinated by the way everyday objects can inspire art, and that’s something I bring into the creative process. Whether it’s a chair, a toy, or an industrial tool, I find ways to incorporate those shapes, textures, and forms into fashion design. At YUECEN, we love blending the familiar with the unexpected. It’s about bringing a sense of playfulness and curiosity to high-end fashion.
AD: Speaking of blending the familiar with the unexpected, your designs have made waves among celebrities. Can you tell us more about the brand’s red carpet moments?
YRC: We’ve been fortunate to see our designs being worn by some incredible individuals. Model Yvesmark Chery embraced our designs at both a Grammy promotional video and the Met Gala after-party. Gordan Cormier also wore YUECEN to Netflix’s Television Academy event, and soccer star Kellyn Acosta showcased our work during MLS’s AAPI Heritage Month. Seeing our pieces on these platforms shows that people resonate with the stories we tell through fashion.
AD: 2024 was a big year for YUECEN, especially with the DNA Paris Design Award for the Quarter Turn collection. Can you share what that meant for you?
YRC: Winning the DNA Paris Design Award was definitely a milestone for us. The Quarter Turn collection was a collaboration with visual artist Emma Beatrez, and it explored the human condition in a way that married visual art with fashion. The project was deeply personal because it was about storytelling, not just through fabric but through emotions. It showed us that our work resonated on a deeper level with people, which is something we always strive for.
CW: That collection was a bold step in challenging the traditional confines of fashion. We didn’t just create garments; we crafted a visual and emotional experience. Collaborating with Emma Beatrez allowed us to push boundaries and explore how fashion can evoke feelings in the same way fine art does.
AD: How do you see YUECEN evolving in the next few years? What can we expect from the brand?
YRC: We want to continue pushing the envelope. YUECEN is about more than just fashion—it’s a movement. We’re exploring more collaborations, not just in fashion but across different art forms. We’re also looking at ways to incorporate sustainable practices into our design process. For us, it’s about maintaining that delicate balance between honoring tradition and embracing the future.
CW: Exactly. Fashion is serious, but it also needs to be playful and curious. We’re excited to keep blending the structured beauty of traditional techniques with modern elements. And who knows? Maybe one day, YUECEN will branch out into areas beyond fashion. The possibilities are endless.
AD: YUECEN seems to embody a perfect balance of heritage and innovation. What advice would you give to young designers trying to make their mark in such a fast-paced industry?
YRC: Stay true to your roots. It’s easy to get lost in trends, but if you have a strong foundation—whether it’s cultural, personal, or artistic—you’ll stand out. Don’t be afraid to blend the old with the new. Fashion is a form of expression, and the best designs are those that tell a story.
CW: Also, never stop experimenting. Don’t be afraid to pull inspiration from unexpected places. Whether it’s a childhood memory, an industrial object, or a piece of art, you can always find a way to incorporate it into your work. That’s what makes fashion fun and meaningful.
As YUECEN continues to make waves in the fashion world, it’s clear that the brand is more than just another luxury fashion label. With a focus on storytelling, cultural heritage, and bold innovation, YUECEN is redefining what it means to wear tradition while looking toward the future. As they prepare for their next chapter, one thing is certain—YUECEN is here to stay.
