Topsy Yu, who graduated just a year ago, still exudes a sense of youthfulness when she speaks, yet the courage and enthusiasm of this young lady is vividly seen. She initially questioned whether to join the YDC competition but decided, "Don't think too much, just give it a go!"
Challenge Yourself
It turns out that Yu didn’t join this contest with no experience. "I signed up for the competition last year, yet unfortunately didn’t make it. This is a highly competitive game, with 2-300 participants fighting for a place in the final 10. It's not easy!" says the graduate from Institute of Textiles and Clothing of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Some have not been shortlisted even after seven to eight years’ trial.
"I realised many people are considering participating. If you desire, I’d say just give it a go! The YDC 2022 competition is calling for entries now. Those who are interested should just go and challenge yourself.”
.jpg)
.jpg)
Looking back on the experience, Yu felt grateful and lucky. "I’m grateful for the support of people who stood by me, and especially the professional opinions of the judges, who understood what my shortcomings are. There are blind spots when one is designing your own work, and you need an outsider to remind you.”
Inspired by the traditional clothing of the Tang Dynasty, Yu added a stylish waistcoat to the feminine silhouette, and the patchwork coat with puff sleeves is undoubtedly dazzling. Voted for by the public with the “one person one vote” system, this trendy and wearable series won the “My Favourite Collection” Award.
From meeting the judges and revising the design to setting up the display venue on the day of the competition, Yu has developed fast. "This is a very rare experience! I’ve gained a lot of job opportunities after the competition. An artist has invited me to work on her image design, and a stylist has pulled clothes from me as well.”
Yu's goal is to establish her own brand in three to five years. "I’m looking forward to working more, gain more experience, and do my best to attain my goal.”
.JPG)
