#beNEXTready

“NEXT@Fashion InStyle is about pushing boundaries - rethinking how we design, create, and innovate with materials that respect both tradition and the future. Be NEXT-ready!”

— Han Chong, The Ambassador of NEXT@Fashion InStyle

Fashion is evolving, and materials are at the heart of this shift. As the Founder and Creative Director of self-portrait, Han Chong has built his brand on a deep understanding of fabric innovation - how materials shape design, craftsmanship, and ultimately, the final product that reaches the customer. Now, as the ambassador for NEXT@Fashion InStyle, he joins the initiative in championing new ways for designers to experiment with fabrics that blend sustainability, culture, and technology.

Fashion Insight from Han

Q: How do you perceive the current trends surrounding the use of innovative materials in fashion?
Han: There’s a real movement toward responsibility in fashion. Designers aren’t just thinking about aesthetics, but they’re also questioning where materials come from, how they’re made, and what happens to them after. We’re seeing innovations with biodegradable fabrics, regenerated textiles, and unexpected materials that challenge traditional ideas of luxury.

Q: How is Next@Fashion Instyle integrating art and culture into material innovation?
Han: When we collaborate with artisans, we’re not just using their techniques, we’re carrying forward their heritage in a modern way. Whether it’s working with traditional silk-weaving methods or exploring heritage textiles, it’s important to respect the past while creating for the future.

Q: What role does technology play in this transformation?
Han: Technology is transforming the way we create. It allows us to be far more precise and efficient, meaning we can reduce waste and be more environmentally conscious. With new technologies, we no longer need to do countless rounds of sampling. We can perfect designs faster and with greater accuracy. I’m excited to see what the future holds, especially with the likes of smart fabrics and AI technology, and how they’ll continue to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

With sustainability, cultural richness, and cutting-edge technology interwoven, Next@Fashion Instyle is crafting a future where fashion is as responsible as it is revolutionary.

Highlighted Materials

Cultural and Heritage

The cultural and heritage textile trend celebrates the rich history and artistry of traditional craftsmanship. Designers are increasingly incorporating indigenous patterns, techniques, and fabrics into contemporary fashion, creating a blend of the old and new. This trend emphasizes storytelling, cultural appreciation, and sustainability, honoring ancestral legacies while promoting vibrant, unique designs.

New & Innovation

The fashion trend of new & innovative textiles highlights technology integration, and enhanced performance. These textiles utilize eco-friendly materials, smart fibers, and advanced manufacturing techniques to deliver adaptable, functional, and stylish garments. This trend caters to a growing demand for clothing that balances environmental responsibility with cutting-edge design and practical benefits.

Sustainable

Sustainable textiles prioritize environmental responsibility and ethical production. They utilize organic fibers, recycled materials, and eco-friendly dyes to minimize ecological impact. Emphasizing durability and reduced waste, these textiles support a circular economy, appealing to consumers who value sustainability and conscious fashion choices without compromising on style or quality.