Profile of Fashion Designer

Han Feng

Known for her creative use of colour and her innovative fabric treatments, Han Feng has been slowly but very surely making a name for herself in the fast-paced world of fashion. Born in Nanjing, China, in 1962, Feng studied graphic arts at the Zhegjiang Academy of Fine arts in Hangshou before moving to New York in 1985.  View Han Feng's photos from the show  Read the special interview with Han Feng Initially, Feng worked as a salesperson at Bloomingdale’s, where she learned English and all about American style, which would serve her well in the coming years. While working for some fabric companies, she got the idea to create her own collection of scarves. Initially she sold them only to friends but soon had orders from stores such as Henri Bendel and Brooks Brothers. Feng’s talent for fashion was clearly evident. Encouraged by the response of buyers and press, Feng worked towards expanding the range of her fashion talent and in 1993 presented her first ready-to-wear collection. By 1995 she had developed a complete line of dresses, coats, suits, eveningwear and furs and was receiving rave reviews from publications such as the New York Times and Women’s Wear Daily. Feng’s designs have a modern, sophisticated edge. They combine Western functionality with Eastern spirituality and offer a subtle play between traditional and modern. Notable in her collections are unexpected touches such as using luxury fabrics for basic, every day garments. Her design philosophy is based in the concept of “The Art of Everyday Life”. Feng believes that fashion is one of the ways today’s modern woman can express herself creatively, and that design – from the clothes one wears to the home or office that surrounds – adds richness to every aspect of life. To that end, she has begun to create imaginative designs for the home, including luxurious cushions and sleek furniture. Feng has achieved many accolades for her work. In 1994 she was the recipient of the Vidal Sassoon Excellence in New Design award; in 1995 the Asian American Tribute to Excellence. In 1997 Feng was named Fashion Group International Rising Star. Her works have been featured in installations at the Takashimaya and TZ Art galleries in New York as well as the museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology and the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. In 2002 she participated in an exhibition of Chinese contemporary art at Sotheby’s in New York. Han Feng’s designs are available at Lord & Taylor as well as specialty shops across the U.S.