Emerging Designer Showcase- Dillon Napier's "HanZen" and "Lest we Forget"

HanZen is a sustainable, zero-waste collection that draws deeply from the rich textile traditions, philosophies, and patterning techniques found across various Asian cultures. The name itself is a fusion of Han, referencing the cultural lineage of East Asia, and Zen, symbolizing balance, mindfulness, and simplicity—values that guided both the design and making process.

Each garment in HanZen honors the beauty of material integrity by embracing zero-waste patternmaking. Every shape, fold, and seam is intentional, echoing the harmony between body, fabric, and space. Influences range from the structured geometry of traditional hanbok, the fluidity of kimono, the architectural drapes of saris, to the quiet minimalism of Zen aesthetics.

This collection challenges fast fashion’s wasteful norms, inviting viewers to reflect on slowness, cultural appreciation, and sustainability. HanZen is not only a celebration of Asian heritage but also a meditation on how fashion can be both artful and responsible.

Together, we can redefine fashion by creating a wardrobe that not only enhances personal style but also nurtures our environment. Let us embrace a future where beauty and sustainability coexist harmoniously.

Lest We Forget was conceived during my time studying abroad at the London College of Fashion, University of the Arts London. Shortly after arriving in the UK, I received the heartbreaking news that my grandmother had passed away after a long illness. After much reflection with my family, we decided it was best for me to remain abroad for the duration of the semester—an incredibly difficult decision that meant I would miss her funeral.

From that moment forward, I knew I wanted to honor her memory through my work. Lest We Forget is a tribute not only to her life but to the emotional journey of grieving from afar.

This collection invites you to walk the storied streets of London, drawing inspiration from the city’s rich history and timeless elegance. It blends old-world charm with contemporary refinement, from timeless wool coats to elegant tea dresses , embrace the nostalgic allure of London 's fashion heritage reimagined for the modern wardrobe.

At its core, Lest We Forget embodies the philosophy of “Moving Forward, Looking Back”, a concept embracing progress without forgetting our past. This collection is both a personal elegy and a celebration of heritage, inviting us all to honor the past as we create our futures.