Today, we find ourselves living in the "future era" that was once the imaginings of 20th-century thinkers. But how do modern-day fashion designers envision this future we now inhabit? As an emerging designer at this year's CENTRESTAGE, Max Tsang – the designer behind the local brand IP Axis Industrial – emphasises that the future is about vision and foresight, while the avant-garde is about breakthroughs. This, he suggests, is the aspiration that designers in every generation should strive towards.

Why are the elements of “futurism” and “technology” so integral to your style?

The ideas of  “futurism” and “technology” are integral to my design style because they represent a vision towards the future and a contemplation of technological progress. The future vision I aim for goes beyond visual aesthetics — it is a conceptual exploration as well. Numerous works of literature, film, and other media have drawn creative inspiration from a technological sensibility, and I hope to channel that same spirit in my forward-thinking design ethos. The goal of my designs is to push the boundaries of what currently exists and uncover new possibilities for the future. This spirit of exploration has driven me to search for new materials, silhouettes, and forms in order to achieve a futuristic aesthetic and give the wearer an unprecedented visual and sensory experience.

How channel these two themes within your design approach?

In terms of material selection, I utilise high-tech fibres, smart fabrics, and innovative materials to create a futuristic and technological effect – such as textiles that have reflective or colour-changing functions. In my design approach, I prefer to take inspiration from the structure of the human body, using clean lines and modular design (where a garment is comprised of detachable components that can be kept or removed, making the piece both personalised and functional). These design elements not only provide a fresh, cutting-edge visual aesthetic but also achieve a high degree of practicality and utility. I believe that fashion designers should incorporate the wearer’s needs into their garments so that the product is not just clothing to be worn, but also a second skin that can cater to the user’s activities and daily needs.

Through your designs, how do you achieve the balance between functionality and aesthetics that is required in workwear?

Details are a crucial focus in my design process. Functional details such as multi-functional pockets, adjustable components, and durable materials are essential to ensure the practicality of my workwear for everyday use. At the same time, I pay close attention to the visual details, preferring a clean, minimalist aesthetic, using simple lines and symmetrical garment construction. I also select a modern colour palette to enhance the visual appeal. These aesthetic elements elevate the workwear beyond just a utilitarian garment, transforming it into a fashionable piece with a strong design sensibility, while meeting the functional needs. I also give great importance to the quality-related details of production, such as exquisite sewing techniques, unique accessory designs, and the selection of high-grade fabrics. These refined details are crucial for enhancing both the overall beauty and functionality of the final garment.

Do you think about gender when designing your clothes, considering your designs tend to be unisex or gender-neutral?

I believe that clothing should be a tool for self-expression, rather than a constraint imposed by gender. My design focuses on functionality, comfort, and aesthetics because I want everyone to be able to find their own personal style in the garments and to make the clothing more inclusive and accessible to wearers of all genders. Of course, I do also consider the market demands for gender-specific fashion, so I maintain awareness and responsiveness to the needs of both the men's and women's clothing markets.

How do you view the term “avant-garde”, and do you consider your brand to fall under this descriptor?

The term “avant-garde” represents breakthrough and reinvention. My brand aims to challenge tradition, not adhere to traditional clothing norms, and strive to explore new concepts and forms. While many brands focus on minimalist designs due to cost considerations, we hope to go against the grain by focusing on designs with complex craftsmanship to emphasise our own unique style. In this spirit, innovation and experimentation are core pursuits for us. We hope that our brand's style can capture the public eye and be a driving force for future fashion trends, rather than just being a follower of trends.

What does the future look like for IP Axis Industrial?

I hope to expand the brand’s influence to the international market, entering Japan, Europe, and other regions. In our upcoming SS25 season, we will showcase new collections in showrooms in cities like Paris, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, so that more people can discover our brand. I will also continue investing in the research and development of innovative technologies and explore the applications of cutting-edge innovations in apparel design, such as smart fabrics and wearable tech. In addition, the brand will be deeply committed to sustainability. We will use environmentally friendly materials and implement green production processes to fulfil the social responsibilities that a fashion brand should uphold.