University of Westminster
Graduates: 2025
Specialisms: Atelier - Pattern Cutting / Womenswear / Textiles
My location: Kunming, China
First Name: Xiwen
Last Name: Zhang
University / College: University of Westminster
Course / Program: Fashion Design BA
Graduates: 2025
Specialisms: Atelier - Pattern Cutting / Womenswear / Textiles
My Location: Kunming, China
Nostalgic Futurism was born from my childhood fascination with the cosmos and a romantic vision of the unknown and the future. Drawing on elements from 1960s science fiction films and classic minimalism, the collection seeks to capture a subtle, nostalgic emotion. Its silhouettes reference the refined minimal style of the 1960s, taking inspiration from both fashion and product design of the era — clean lines, streamlined forms, mini skirts, the Egg Chair, and the metallic lamps of Ettore Sottsass and E.R. Nele. Fabrics carry ‘cosmic’ references — meteor showers, meteorites, the moon, and the iconic ‘pink suit’ from 60s sci-fi — realised through customised acrylic pieces, hand-cut strip embellishments, an innovative combination of scuba fabric and nylon, and hand-sewn sequins to create the collection’s signature textiles. Centred on shell-like and linear forms, the collection combines these innovative materials to create a full range of outerwear, coats, capes, trousers, skirts, hats, footwear, and jewellery.