Taiwanese-born, London-based designer Ray Chu has unveiled his A/W25 collection at London Fashion Week, titled Blue Cypress, a bold homage to resilience, sustainability, and cultural identity. Drawing inspiration from Taiwan’s iconic Blue Cypress trees—symbols of endurance and strength—the collection merges advanced sustainable textiles with traditional craftsmanship, reflecting Chu’s dual mission to honor his roots and champion ecological innovation.
The Blue Cypress, which shares its name with Chu’s Chinese moniker “Po,” serves as both a personal and environmental metaphor. “The tree withstands typhoons and harsh conditions, much like our planet’s struggle for survival,” Chu stated. “This collection is a celebration of resilience—both in nature and in the human spirit.”
Central to the lineup are Taiwanese-developed fabrics that redefine sustainability. Chu collaborated with Grandetex to integrate SECAO fibre, created from waste cacao husks, and Everest Textile Co. Ltd. for water chestnut shell charcoal yarn, a bio-based material derived from agricultural byproducts. These textiles, paired with recycled ocean plastics and biodegradable cellulose blends, form the foundation of the collection’s structured silhouettes, which feature 3D bark textures and leaf-shaped beadwork inspired by the tree’s organic forms.
“Taiwan’s textile industry is at the forefront of turning waste into beauty,” Chu emphasized. “By partnering with these innovators, we’re proving that luxury can be both ethical and forward-thinking.”
The A/W25 color palette—deep greens, stormy grays, and misty blues—echoes the Blue Cypress’s natural habitat, while signature pieces like a sculptural coat with resin-like accents and a flowing gown adorned with upcycled wood details highlight the brand’s commitment to mindful design.
Since launching his label in 2021, Chu has become known for fusing Asian artisanal techniques with British design sensibilities, previously collaborating with maisons like JW Anderson. This season’s collection, presented at the Design Museum as part of LFW’s sustainability-focused programming, received acclaim for its technical ingenuity and emotional depth.
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