Led by Prof. Yadie Yang, SFT Assistant Professor, two talented BA knitwear design students, Wong Kai-yu and Ng Shu-ching, presented their creative collections in Florence, Italy, in June 2026, with the generous sponsorship of M.ORO Cashmere and Lai’s Knitters Limited. Drawing inspiration from furry culture and traditional tie-dye craftsmanship, two collections explore identity, self-expression and personal growth through innovative knitwear design. Following their presentation in Florence, the collections will also be showcased in China and the United States later this year.
"Fursona" by Wong Kai-yu
“Fursona” is a term used in furry culture to describe a personalised furry character through which an individual expresses their identity, personality and imagined story.
The collection explores the sincerity, openness and individuality of the furry community. Although the culture is sometimes misunderstood, its members continue to express their values and authentic selves through the distinctive characters and costumes that they create.
Inspired by the idea that elaborate outward appearances can reveal something precious and genuine inside, the collection translates the unique visual language of furry culture into knitwear. The recurring eye motif symbolises the belief that a person’s true character and inner spirit can be seen through their eyes.
"Tie-Dye: A Journey of Growth" by Ng Shu-ching
Tie-dyeing is a traditional dyeing technique in which every step of the process has its own distinctive character and beauty. Inspired by the different steps and techniques involved in traditional tie-dyeing, the collection draws a parallel between the dyeing process and the various stages of personal growth.
Each garment represents a different stage in the journey from childhood to young adulthood. Through changes in colour, pattern and form, the collection narrates the experience of growing up and the gradual shaping of one’s identity.
By transforming the tie-dyeing processes into a visual and tactile design language, the collection celebrates the beauty of traditional craftsmanship while offering a thoughtful reflection on life, transformation and self-discovery.
