Rejina Pyo founded her eponymous label with the ethos to ââtransform everyday dressing into an extraordinary experience. So, it’s no surprise that since the brand’s launch in 2014, it has become a stalwart on the London fashion scene.
From sharp silhouettes and exaggerated proportions, to contrast stitching and the use of embellished buttons, the brand has a retro, vintage feel that is decidedly modern, turning the finer details into exactly that - incredible details. The transitional styles are created to be timeless with stand-out pieces like the puff-sleeve dresses spawning a thousand high-street replicas.
Since earning her stripes at Central Saint Martins, the Korean-born, London-based designer has gone on to win industry awards aplenty from the Han Nefkens Award to the British Fashion Award and has been worn by editors and celebrities alike including Meghan Markle, Jorja Smith and Scarlet Johansson to name but a few.
Trading ‘jackets for journals’, Pyo lends her signature style to Papier for a dreamy stationery collection filled with sculptural illustrations, beautifully spray-painted abstract florals and colour block creations to transform your WFH or office supplies.
We caught up with the designer to find out all about the things she can’t live without.
What are you up to at the moment?
I just gave birth to my daughter Kaya, so we are currently adjusting to parenthood of two small children while returning to work. At the studio, we have just gone into research and development for our PF23 season. I am also about to go to my husband’s family home in Ireland over the school holidays - which is nestled in between the mountains and the sea in Dublin and is always a lovely spot to unwind. We are also launching our next kidswear range.
How would you describe your style?
My personal style is based on whatever my mood is at that time. I like to play with unexpected colour combinations and textures. I tend to mix in my Rejina Pyo designs with my cherished vintage pieces. I would describe the look as “Future Vintage”.
What are your wardrobe staples?
This summer, my bag of choice has been the Lois, it’s the perfect size to carry your essentials and it’s so fun and lightweight, I have all the colours! I am also living in our Jolene shirts, Doris shorts and Mila wedge sandals.
Can you walk us through your favourite jewellery pieces?
We did a necklace for our SS22 season called the Donut Pendant, I love that it’s casual but beautiful. The fabric chain allows you to wear it as a necklace, anklet, bracelet… It feels effortless and cool.
What is something you’ve recently purchased for your home?
I am always on the hunt for furniture, sculpture and paintings - but the most recent purchase has been a high chair for our baby daughter. Exciting, I know!
What’s the one item you couldn’t live without?
My morning matcha and my notebooks. I try to write and sketch everyday.
How do you incorporate time for yourself in your schedule?
Currently with the two kids there is none, but I am trying to carve out some quiet time in the day for research, and I do try to do yoga when I can at home.
How do you treat yourself?
Going out for dinner, my current favourite is Florence Knight’s food at Sessions Arts Club.
