Transcendence: A Futuristic Denim Collection by Xianyang Zhang

Blending Traditional Denim with Innovative 3D Construction

Xianyang Zhang, with a background in Network Engineering and entrepreneurship in technology, approaches design from an interdisciplinary perspective. His goal is to discover potential for improvement and innovation in everyday objects, creating an unconventional relationship between forms and functions. This perspective is evident in Transcendence, a collection that explores the potential of America's most iconic material - denim.

The collection takes the viewer on a journey through time, from the past to the present, and into the future. Some pieces even represent errors that occurred during the digitalization process. The innovative 3D construction method used in the collection enhances the mobility of the human body by providing more room around joints, a testament to Zhang's focus on functionality as well as aesthetics.

Transcendence was created using used denim clothes and jeans combined with 3D constructed screen printed selvedge denim. Some pieces were made of primed canvas. The collection, which is unisex and size L, was exhibited at the Parsons The New School of Design End of Year Exhibition in 2018.

The project, which took place from January to May 2018, began with a research of digital fashion design process. Zhang self-learned and experimented with several 3D design software. After discovering the 3D fashion design workflow, he applied a storyline or theme to it. The most challenging part of the project was finding a relatively lower cost workflow and choosing a wearable fabric and hardware. After nearly a hundred times of testing and prototyping, Zhang was able to bring his idea into reality.

Transcendence is more than just a collection; it is a statement on the potential of digital fashion design. By presenting the collection with advanced technology such as AR and VR, Zhang aims to give the audience an immersive experience and shorten the distance between reality and virtuality. This collection, with its unique blend of traditional and innovative elements, truly represents the future of fashion.