Blank : Summer edition
BLANK is an experimental New York-based women's collection that reimagines traditional workwear, military apparel, and uniforms as womenswear, reflecting designer Youngji Cho's personal experiences and vision.
Though thematically split into fall/winter and spring/summer collections, BLANK's garments transcend traditional seasonal concepts, offering year-round versatility.
BLANK embodies a philosophy of transformation and versatility, marked by a blank logo that symbolizes the brand's potential and open-ended nature.
"The spring/summer edition of BLANK explores my conception of uniforms - examining their functionality, group belonging, and capacity for individual expression.
As I began work on the collection, I found myself thinking of the uniforms I wore to middle school in South Korea. Like many middle-schoolers, I considered my school uniform restrictive and boring, only to appreciate its practicality and sense of belonging as I grew older.
Perhaps influenced by my fascination with Sailor Moon, the summer uniform—a sailor style with a distinctive large collar—became my favourite. Pairing it with gym pants or a longer skirt allowed me to express myself within the uniform's confines . The sailor uniform became the starting point for BLANK's spring/summer edition, as I sought to channel that same sense of comfort and usefulness into my collection.
The sailor uniform gained popularity when Queen Victoria's eldest son, Prince Edward, sported a naval suit for his royal portrait. This trend went on to influence uniforms across the world, including those at my middle school in Korea. Struck by the powerful influence of maritime uniforms, I scoured the clothing of sailors, marines, and navigators worldwide and throughout history. In rugged US Navy Smocks and Royal Navy Pants, I discovered the same signs of belonging and individuality I felt through my school uniform.
This season's collection intertwines these naval influences with memories of my school uniforms. The crest-shaped logos from school inspired the placement of seams, while traditional uniform patterns and palettes appear throughout the collection. Design details include pocket styles from wool sailor shirts, lace-up and patch pockets from sailor pants, and expansive pockets typical of Royal Navy trousers.
The collection examines the conflicting sense of individuality, conformity, and expression inherent in uniforms. BLANK's spring/summer edition presents my interpretation of the naval uniform, embodying a blend of historical homage and contemporary innovation."
The BLANK spring 24' collection is now available in-store and online.
