Closing 2023 with gratitude for all the projects and collaborations that allowed A.Oei Studio to further develop our creative vision. Here's a throwback to the year:
- Artisanal Fragments, one-of-a-kind bespoke designs that re-purposes fabric remnants and used garments.
- 4 media publications: What Women Create, Future Lynn, Conscious Fashion, The Straits Times
- April: Month-long pop-up shop at The Seedling Collective in Old Town Alexandria.
- May: Design collaboration with Singapore-Vancouver-based actress, Kheng Hua, and her daughter, Shi An. 10% of sales proceeds were donated to Babes, an organization that provides support and resources for teenage pregnancy.
- June: Trunk Show at Peti Boutique in Seattle.
- August: Week-long pop-up shop in Nolita, New York City.
- October: Release of the Magnolia Print, a digitized, embroidered pattern inspired by cyanotype printing.
- November: A.Oei Studio has found a new home at the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria. A dedicated space with a waterfront view in a building filled with other creative makers. Open to walk-ins, open to so many new possibilities.
To be honest, 2023 has been overwhelming in terms of our search for a bespoke showroom, understanding the limitations (and potential) of the current fashion industry in the DMV, and a sluggish retail environment as a whole.
Having found a new atelier, our main goals for 2024 are to: 1) enhance the bespoke production workflow so as to increase the studio's capacity for couture custom-made designs; 2) develop A.Oei's in-house line more consistently; 3) improve the communication of our products and processes.
Thank you for following this journey. Our vision is to continue sharing and collaborating on more meaningful and durable interpretations of fashion -- as a craft, a form of self-expression, and as a platform that connects us to social, cultural and environmental topics. We sincerely appreciate and welcome your feedback.