JAEHA, founded by Korean-born New Zealander Jae Kim, is the new ready-to-wear label to know. After moving to London in 2010, Kim gained experience working in the Mary Katrantzou studio before studying at Central St Martins under the late Louise Wilson OBE. Carving out his own aesthetic, he is known for combining abstract forms with layering and texture.

Tell us about how you started designing…
When I was 17, I saw all these girls sewing up their ball dresses for their end of year high school ball – pure polyester moment. They needed help – so I decided to take fashion as one of my subjects in high school back in New Zealand.

Why did you decide to move to London?
I met Peter Pilotto and Jean-Pierre Braganza at Mango El Boton competition in Barcelona. Braganza told me I should come to London – so I sent my application to Louise Wilson at Central St Martins MA, and was accepted.

How would you describe your brand? 
Premium contemporary womenswear – visually striking garments that combine bold, androgynous cuts with a care free, wearable style.

What’s the story behind the AW16 collection? 
Modern pre-Raphaelite women’s wardrobe meets Wes Anderson.

What’s the most valuable advice you have been given? 
Collaboration is good when it’s needed.

Where do you see your brand in five years? 
Kate Middleton’s wardrobe. Hopefully people can pronounce ‘JAEHA’ correctly by then.

www.jaeha.com

Tags: Central St. Martin's, JAEHA, Louise Wilson, Mary Katrantzou