EN LEE

“The Fine Red Line” was inspired by the conflicts, arguments, compromises, and mutual understanding that often emerge between two people in love, as seen throughout romantic films. The collection explores how lovers argue over their individual values after encountering conflict, transforming their emotional confrontation into something resembling a war. Through clothing, the stages of argument and struggle are translated into visual forms, using opposing materials, design approaches, and colors to create a relationship that feels like two enemy nations while simultaneously belonging to the same country.

Different combinations of materials are used to construct the identities represented by different soldiers. The collection incorporates tweed, nylon, faux fur, and knit fabrics, with hand-embroidered beads adding delicate and refined details.

The silhouettes are based on a clean-fit aesthetic, creating fluid lines while carefully increasing the visual weight of the garments. The first three looks represent emotionality, using layers to emphasize how, during every argument, emotions and unresolved issues accumulate like fabric piled upon the body, creating a growing burden. The final three looks represent rationality through cleaner and more refined forms. I believe the choice of fabric and silhouette should complement one another; when these elements come together, their individual character and charm naturally emerge.

The key visuals and accessories are essential in conveying the identity and symbolism of each look. For example, the first look represents a new recruit—a self-satisfied character, like a child surrounded by love who has not yet encountered hardship and therefore struggles to empathize with others. He is impulsive, confident, and eager to express himself, yet has not discovered where his flaws and insecurities originate. To express this, I combine multiple layers with two contrasting materials: wool and nylon. The glossy wool represents confidence, while the straps symbolize restraints. Delicate embroidery emphasizes his beauty, yet upon closer inspection, the embroidery reveals itself as traces of wounds.

“The Fine Red Line” explores the vulnerability and insecurity revealed when lovers encounter conflict. In war, there are no true winners. If our strategy is to hurt the person we love, can we still remain together after the argument, as we were when we first fell in love?