Words: Theo Thompson . Images: Chris Yates/ Chris Yates Media
FJU Talents, an annual platform sponsored by Fu Jen Catholic University’s College of Fashion and Textiles, offers emerging designers like Chi-Li a global stage. By merging Eastern and Western influences, Chi-Li’s work exemplifies the creative innovation fostered by FJU Talents. His forward-thinking designs suggest a bright future for this young talent, who remains open to whatever challenges may come next. “I’m going with the flow,” Chi-Li remarked with a quiet confidence, hinting at exciting things to come.
At this year’s FJU Talents show during London Fashion Week, the work of Chi-Li stood out as a stunning blend of historical reverence and modern creativity. This young designer, currently pursuing a master’s degree at Fu Jen Catholic University, brings a unique perspective to fashion, weaving his Taiwanese heritage with Victorian influences into a visual spectacle that captures both strength and delicacy.
In a conversation after the show, Chi-Li shared his deep fascination with the Victorian era, particularly its use of structural boning and layers. “I love layers,” he said, explaining how they blend these historical elements with bold Taiwanese cultural references. This daring fusion was vividly present in the pieces, which reimagined traditional Taiwanese divine generals with the soft, romantic touch of Japanese magical girl aesthetics. The result was a striking balance of masculine armours and tusks with feminine bows, gowns and puffed skirts.
Chi-Li’s collection at FJU Talents was a reflection of his love for contrasts and storytelling through clothing. Divine generals, revered in Taiwanese culture, were brought to life alongside the fantasy-driven concept of magical girls, transforming the runway into a space where myth and subculture met. This juxtaposition of the fierce and the tender reflected Chi-Li’s exploration of gender, power and transformation.
The show was a visual delight; floral, elaborate and elegant, each piece embodied meticulous craftsmanship. Chi-Li has a talent for expressing deep emotions through fabric, something they attribute to the inspiration of family. The textures in their designs, resembling the hardworking hands of family members, added a layer of personal warmth and affection to the collection, grounding the fantastical in reality.
