Bonan Li Explores Identity and Nature Through Poem Space

Thank you! My awarded design, Poem Space, explores women’s identity and the connection between their body, consciousness, and the natural environment. Through textured materials and dynamic spatial shaping, the work reflects the fluidity and transience between clothing and the body, fostering a deeper emotional and sensory connection.

I’m an independent fashion designer specialising in experimental and conceptual design. My studio is dedicated to creating pieces that transcend traditional fashion boundaries, integrating philosophy, sustainability, and artistic expression.

Poem Space best represents my ideas as it embodies my exploration of women’s identity, the connection between body and consciousness, and the influence of the natural environment. The use of textured materials reflects nature’s forms—such as the roughness of stone or the wrinkles of bark—while the dynamic spatial shaping challenges conventional boundaries between clothing and the body.

This interplay of fluidity and transience creates an immersive experience, encouraging deeper self-perception and interaction with the surroundings.

My journey into fashion design was driven by a deep curiosity about the relationship between the human body, identity, and space. I see clothing as more than just attire – it’s a medium for expression, emotion, and interaction. Growing up, I was inspired by nature’s textures and the philosophy of impermanence, both of which continue to shape my work.

What motivates me is the ongoing exploration of new narratives in fashion – breaking gender boundaries, redefining materials, and creating immersive experiences that connect people with themselves and their surroundings.

A bit of both! My studio is a space of constant transformation – some moments are meditative, where I immerse myself in material exploration and conceptual research, while others are filled with dynamic energy, especially during draping, prototyping, and fittings. There’s always an interplay between chaos and calm – much like my design philosophy, where structure and fluidity coexist.

Fluid, sensory and transformative.

My designs embrace fluidity in form and movement, evoke rich sensory experiences through materiality, and transform how we perceive clothing, space, and identity.

The "aha" moment came when I realised Poem Space perfectly encapsulated my vision of fashion as an immersive, experiential medium. The way it intertwines texture, movement, and spatial interaction felt like a compelling narrative worth sharing on a larger stage.

I saw the French Fashion Award as an opportunity to showcase this concept to an audience that values innovation and artistry in fashion.

If fashion had no rules, I would create fully immersive, shape-shifting garments that respond to the wearer’s emotions and environment—clothing that breathes, evolves, and transforms like a living organism.

Using bio-responsive materials and kinetic structures, these pieces would blur the lines between body, space, and nature, turning fashion into an interactive, ever-changing experience.

I wish for the return of true craftsmanship and slow fashion—where garments hold deep artistic value, storytelling, and longevity. On the other hand, I’d love to see fast fashion disappear forever.

The industry needs to move away from mass overproduction and disposable clothing towards more sustainable, thoughtful design that respects both people and the planet.

Balancing artistic freedom with commercial demands is always a challenge, but I see it as an opportunity rather than a limitation. I approach this by creating pieces that maintain strong conceptual depth while ensuring they are wearable and adaptable to different audiences.

Limited editions, collaborations, and made-to-order designs help sustain my creativity without compromising my vision. Ultimately, I believe that innovation and authenticity can drive commercial success without conforming to trends.

I would love to collaborate with Issey Miyake—his approach to fabric innovation and movement aligns deeply with my philosophy.

Together, I would create a collection that redefines the boundaries between clothing, space, and the human form, using experimental textiles and kinetic structures to craft garments that evolve with the wearer. It would be a fusion of tradition and future-forward design, celebrating both craftsmanship and technology.

For me, success in fashion is about impact and legacy—creating work that challenges perceptions, fosters deeper connections between people and their environment, and inspires future generations of designers. It’s not about fame, but about leaving behind a body of work that sparks dialogue, pushes boundaries, and remains meaningful beyond trends.

Over the next decade, I see fashion evolving towards a more sustainable, technology-driven, and experiential future. Advances in bio-fabrication, AI-driven design, and circular fashion will redefine how we create and interact with clothing. Fashion will become more about storytelling, immersive experiences, and personal expression rather than mass production.

In this shift, I see myself pushing the boundaries of material innovation and spatial design, creating pieces that merge craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. My goal is to continue challenging the norms of fashion, fostering a deeper connection between clothing, identity, and the environment.

One of the most surprising sources of inspiration for my designs is the decay of nature—such as the way lotus leaves wither or how stone erodes over time. These natural transformations, often viewed as imperfections, reveal the beauty of transience and the passage of time.

This concept deeply influences my work, shaping how I approach texture, form, and the fluid relationship between clothing and the body.

I would tell my younger self—and emerging designers—to trust your vision and embrace the process. Fashion is not just about following trends; it’s about finding your unique voice and staying true to it.

Experiment fearlessly, refine your craft, and don’t be afraid of challenges—they shape your identity as a designer. Most importantly, create with purpose and authenticity; that’s what makes your work truly stand out.

My life’s work is a message about connection, transformation, and consciousness. Fashion is not just clothing—it’s a space where body, identity, and environment merge. Through materiality and form, I aim to awaken deeper awareness, challenge societal norms, and create immersive experiences that resonate beyond the surface. Fashion should be felt, not just worn.