DINGYUN ZHANG
HOW CAN SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION CREATE A BENEFICIAL DIALOGUE?
Technical fabrics and oversized silhouettes are essential elements of young Dingyun Zhang’s designs. Resulting out of a deep desire to connect sustainable ideas to functionality and innovative materials Zhang raises awareness for different cultures and their individual struggles. After working for Kanye West’s brand Yeezy where he nurtured his love for footwear, he currently is inspired by workwear.
THE COSY STYLE
Creating a more sustainable future is what fires Zhang’s desire to design. From a spirit of utility rather than luxury, the young designer explores material to create long-term change and comfort that lasts.
INTERVIEW WITH DINGYUN ZHANG
Your shoe prioritises sustainability – how can designers approach sustainability in an innovative and creative way?
One of the main polluting textiles in luxury goods is leather, and designers should take responsibility for the use of these products. Finding alternatives to animal products is a key part of increasing sustainability. In my collection, I’ve used bonding techniques with nylon and neoprene to create imitation leather, maintaining a strong quality and long-lasting material.
What did you make of the judging panel’s comments and why do you think they were impressed with your concept?
I took the concept of comfort, from the most comfortable place for us all - our duvets. The concept of wearing duvets on our feet is a simple yet versatile design than can be worn without thinking. I think they appreciate that it achieves simplicity and comfort without going too far from the original Birkenstock design.
One of the main polluting textiles in luxury goods is leather, and designers should take responsibility for the use of these products. Finding alternatives to animal products is a key part of increasing sustainability. In my collection, I’ve used bonding techniques with nylon and neoprene to create imitation leather, maintaining a strong quality and long-lasting material.
What did you make of the judging panel’s comments and why do you think they were impressed with your concept?
I took the concept of comfort, from the most comfortable place for us all - our duvets. The concept of wearing duvets on our feet is a simple yet versatile design than can be worn without thinking. I think they appreciate that it achieves simplicity and comfort without going too far from the original Birkenstock design.