At New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2026, young up-and-coming Brand Huan faye Chien created a collection, “Return to One,” re-examining the symbolic system of ancient mythology from a contemporary perspective. Archetypes from early civilizations seep through their collection that still informs identity to this day. This designer, Qian Hongfei, views mythology as so much more than an abstraction but a deep cultural and spiritual architecture, giving individuals an ineffable container in which to understand themselves and locate their self-worth in today’s world.
The heart of the collection is inspired by the mythical being “Baize” in the Classic of Mountains and Seas. Baize is researched to be able to distinguish all living beings and spirits, discriminate between good and evil, foresee fortune and misfortune, and serve as the very soul of wisdom, insight, and auspicious power.Baize is not only a creature in the mythological system but also represents a spiritual wisdom that transcends the visible world and perceives hidden truths.
Although originating from Eastern mythology, the “Baize” unexpectedly resonates with images such as the Western unicorn or ancient European guardian deities. In different cultures, humanity built these physical symbols—containers that carry beliefs, powers, and visions.
Haun Faye Chien infuses this shared spiritual resonance into the clothing itself. Structure and tailoring form the skeleton of the garments, while details, such as texture and pattern, together construct an “emotional sanctuary.” In the designer’s view, this is precisely what contemporary people lack. This collection positions fashion as an emotional bridge—transcending the boundaries of language and culture, establishing connections through shared emotions.
This collection utilizes natural and sustainable materials such as silk, wool, and cashmere to express reverence for the civilization of prophets. Layered fabrics, exquisite structural silhouettes, and multi-layered tailoring lines collectively form the structure of the garments. Soft, low-saturation primary colors intertwine with vibrant accent colors, creating a dual visual experience of concealment and revelation. The different textures of the garments evoke the elusive presence of mythical creatures, while subtly visible patterns hint at the multidimensional perceptions of Bai Ze. These designs embody a serene and visionary wisdom, offering solace to wearers seeking spiritual comfort.
Each piece in this collection is conceived as an “emotional sanctuary.” This protection is not literal, but psychological—cultivating a clear awareness and introspective capacity through the shaping of touch, materials, and silhouettes. This philosophy embodies Haun Faye Chein’s consistent aesthetic pursuit: seeking a balance between idealistic sensibility and sculptural precision.
In Haun Faye Chein’s interpretation, clothing becomes a powerful medium. By placing mythological wisdom within a contemporary framework, the collection breaks free from the constraints of ancient texts, repositioning itself as a response to the needs of modern spirit and identity.
Written by Clara Whitmore
