Designer: Xuesong Yang

Institution: Central Saint Martins

Theme: “Body Ground” The theme explores the intuitive relationship between the human form and the earth. It is a rejection of the "cage" of modern tailoring. Instead, it focuses on non-restrictive silhouettes and inclusive design, ensuring that the clothing honors the body's natural state rather than forcing it to conform to a rigid structure.

The Sketchbook

Xuesong’s process is visceral. Instead of starting with digital renders, he "rouses his connection with nature" by drawing toiles directly from his own body.

• Gestural lines: Sketches reflect the rhythm of breathing and physical movement.
• Anatomical focus: The sketchbook is filled with studies of how fabric falls when the body is in motion, ensuring comfort for a wide range of body types.
• Conceptual notes: Frequent reminders to "feel the smell of the land" and maintain a "long-term connection" with the source.

The Fabrication

Sustainability is not an afterthought for Xuesong; it is a mark of respect for the animals he grew up alongside.

• Upcycling: Prioritizing the use of existing materials to minimize waste.
• Natural Fibers: A deep focus on high-quality wools and skins, sourced with a commitment to finding humane animal fiber alternatives.
• Experimental Sourcing: Future plans involve traveling across Mongolia to rediscover traditional, low-impact production methods that keep the land healthy.

The Catwalk

The presentation of "Body Ground" is designed to feel like a breath of fresh air.

• The Movement: Models do not walk in a stiff, robotic manner; they move with the fluid grace of the nomadic lifestyle.
• The Aesthetic: Earthy tones, layered textures, and voluminous shapes that catch the air.
• The Impact: The collection communicates a message of "returning home"—not necessarily to a place, but to a state of being where the wearer feels grounded, free, and ethically aligned with the natural world.