Unlocking Digital Fashion Insights with Yejin Lee

Yejin Lee stands at the forefront of digital fashion, weaving together simplicity, trendiness, and innovation. As a digital fashion researcher and creator, Yejin is dedicated to bridging the worlds of fashion, Web3, and business communities, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving landscape of style and creativity.

Driven by her passion for staying ahead of fashion trends, Yejin's journey into digital fashion research was sparked by a desire to explore the next frontier in the industry. Drawing from her experience in color design and strategic planning for global fashion brands, she recognized the immense potential of digital fashion to revolutionize the way we express ourselves and engage with style.

In our conversation, Yejin delves into the core issues digital fashion addresses, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the younger generation and leveraging Web3 technologies to foster inclusivity and creativity. She highlights groundbreaking uses of digital fashion, from immersive experiences on platforms like Roblox to innovative content creation by emerging designers.

Yejin's message to RED-EYE readers is clear: embrace creativity, authenticity, and sustainability in the digital fashion space. With her finger on the pulse of Gen Z and a passion for pushing boundaries, Yejin Lee is shaping the future of style and storytelling in the digital age.

Can you describe your journey into digital fashion research and what initially sparked your interest?

It really started with my passion for keeping up with the latest trends in the fashion world. I've always enjoyed digging into what's coming next and finding ways to share those trends with others. I've embraced a creative and engaging approach throughout my career, whether it was while working on color and concept design or strategizing at a global fashion brand.

This path has given me an understanding of global fashion trends, leading me to realize that digital is the next big stage for fashion. I've seen how top brands are stepping into digital fashion with innovative projects. And it inspired me to make a shift.

So, I decided to dive deeper into this digital realm! Now, as a digital fashion researcher and content creator, I'm on a learning journey. There's a lot to discover in this space, and I'm excited to engage with new projects and learn from leaders in the industry. I'm also a big fan of Red-Eye Magazine, staying updated on all these cool trends.

What are the core problems digital fashion seeks to address, and how do you see it evolving to solve these issues?

I think it's really important to connect more with the young generation. Since they're the ones who are really living in the digital world. We should pay attention to where they hang out online, what they buy, and what they like. It's not just about throwing stuff at them. We need to get why GenZ and Alpha love the specific item. It's all about listening and responding to what they're really into, rather than just guessing.

How do you perceive the role of Web3 technologies in reshaping the landscape of fashion and creativity?

It gives more opportunities to everyone. Despite where they live or their background. Now, people can really show their unique style with their own designs. More competition, but also better product to the end user. It just makes the fashion world dynamic and better.

In your research, what have been some of the most innovative uses of digital fashion you've encountered?

Zlu's video content: super creative and funny, really catching the GenZ vibe. Particularly, content features landscapes like roads and buildings–that's the kind of cool stuff you only can find in digital fashion.

Roblox's Dress to Impress: It's a fashion game that Gen Alpha and Z chose. I've given it a try and totally get the appeal. It's super fun, especially with friends, and it catches what young people dig these days, mixing in Y2K styles and influencer trends.

Future Front Row’s Hologram Runway: I like it because it's not some distant future thing; it's happening now. It's like haute couture, but with a techy twist, showcasing designs in hologram form.

How do influencers, models, and artists contribute to the digital fashion ecosystem, and what impact do they have?

I feel the best contribution is an awesome UGC. It is incredibly powerful. Thanks to social media, you can be a creator, artist, model, and influencer—all at once. I feel there are no longer any boundaries. When I scroll through Instagram and TikTok, I'm always amazed by the fun and creative digital fashion stuff people share. The way the young generation engages with this content is really impressive.

Can you share insights into the challenges and opportunities facing brands as they navigate the digital fashion space?

How to make people buy their product. I feel brands need to figure out the taste of young users and also stand out on social media. It's important to know what customers want and offer products that really hit the mark for them. Beyond showing off fashion items on their social media; appealing through fun and creative content can also appeal to the public. I believe that's how they could get the audience to choose their products in the end.

What advice would you give to young designers and creatives aspiring to make their mark in digital fashion?

I believe it's really helpful to be active on social media. Telling your own story about the collection is super important. But plus, everyone should get to see the cool stuff you're making, right? Being on social media and connecting with people, showing what you're all about, and creating things that others can enjoy and interact with. That's what I think makes the difference.

How do you envision the future of digital fashion intersecting with sustainability and ethical practices?

I feel that brands should focus on making sustainable fashion fun, stylish and beautiful. Then it will have a real impact. This approach can make a big difference because when things get too technical, people might tune out. But if we talk about it in a style that vibes with the digital-savvy, individuals are more likely to get it and get involved.

Do you have a digital fashion collection? What are your favourite digital fashion looks in your digital wardrobe?

I personally love collections from these designers:

The Fabricant's PRIMAL RAVE collection, especially the collaborative pieces with Chrryt. They mix elegance and luxury with a cyberpunk feel, which is pretty challenging. But they've done it and managed to find a good balance. The result for me is something really unique and eye-catching.

I like the 3D printed corsets from Davina India. Her unique fusion of futuristic and girlish moods is beautiful. The outfits have a digital edge but also feel a persuasive social media influencer vibe. It seems perfect for GenZ, who live their lives in digital spaces. Honestly, I would love to try them on.

I'd like to mention Tribute Brand's Instagram content. Their posts do a fantastic job to bring out the coolness of their digital fashion pieces. I’m into their funky and wild style, especially collaborating with influencers. It's something that I personally find appealing.

Lastly, I love the Pudgy Penguins NFT collection. It's not about fashion. But it's fun, cute and positive. I think this kind of vibe is something that everyone can get behind, just like it did for me. They’re sharing the joy and bringing smiles, which is pretty cool.

Lastly, what message do you have for our RED-EYE readers who are curious about or actively participating in digital fashion?

My message is simple; Just do something. Whether it's designing, writing, or building. Taking the first steps changes everything. This is how I started and I keep doing new things every day. It's all about the journey, the learning, and the fun you'll have along the way!

Interview by Gloria Maria Cappelletti

Image Courtesy of Yejin Lee & Sticker Fashion

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