Chet Lo, a graduate of Central Saint Martins, is making waves in the London fashion scene, supported by the NEWGEN initiative to foster innovative talent.
Designer Chet Lo, a rising star in the fashion world, has made a significant mark in London since moving from New York to the British capital in 2015. Lo, who hails from a Hong Kongese family, pursued his fashion education at Central Saint Martins, a prestigious institution known for nurturing creative talent. Upon graduating in 2020 with a BA in Knitwear amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Lo faced the challenge of establishing his own brand. His career took a positive turn when he joined Fashion East’s talent incubator and subsequently earned a spot in the main calendar of London Fashion Week (LFW) during the spring 2022 season, facilitated by the British Fashion Council’s (BFC) NEWGEN initiative.
Lo’s appreciation for London as a creative hub is evident. “I see London as the epicenter of rebellion,” he stated, emphasizing the city’s unique environment that encourages young designers to express themselves authentically, unencumbered by the typical constraints of the fashion industry. His collections, celebrated for their innovative use of materials such as merino wool, have garnered attention from celebrities including Chloe Bailey, Zendaya, and SZA.
Recently, Lo discussed his experience with NEWGEN at Pull&Bear’s Canvas for Creativity pop-up at Selfridges, just days before unveiling his fall-winter 2025 collection, titled “Modern Antiquity.” The NEWGEN initiative, now backed by Pull&Bear, offers vital resources to emerging designers like Lo. In an interview with Teen Vogue, he indicated that the sponsorship has enhanced the show opportunities available for designers. “With the proper funding they have a lot more capabilities with the show venue and the show curation,” Lo explained, highlighting how this support allows for greater creative freedom in the presentation of their work.
Additionally, the program provides training resources that enable designers to develop specific skills. Lo expressed a keen interest in improving factory sourcing processes, noting that establishing proper manufacturing connections remains challenging for many designers. “That takes a lot of connections, and luckily P&B have the best connections,” he noted, underscoring the collaborative nature of the initiative.
As the fashion industry increasingly focuses on sustainability, the BFC has implemented new requirements for NEWGEN designers, signaling a shift towards more responsible production practices. Lo’s forward-thinking approach combined with the backing of established brands positions him as a notable figure to watch in the evolving landscape of fashion. His innovative designs and commitment to experimenting with materials signal a promising future for both his brand and the industry at large.
Source: Noah Wire Services
