Korean Menswear D.GNAK and DBYD Bring Together Smart Silhouettes With Underground Aesthetic
“Popular avant-garde.”
South Korean menswear label, D.GNAK, is the personal project of designer Kang Dong Jun. Born in Seoul and trained at Parson’s School of Design in New York, Kang’s work represents a unique intersection of international influences. Described by the designer as “popular avant-garde,” D.GNAK is his on-going effort to comfortably bridge the underground and the mainstream. Seen in the above 2017 spring/summer lookbook, many pieces feature clean, loose-fitting, angular silhouettes that delve upon traditional Korean influences, however, they also showcase subtle details like silver hoops, straps and buckles reminiscent of rave attire. The overall look and feel is sophisticated, with an undertone of angst portrayed in the photos above and video below.
On the other hand, Kang’s second line, DBYD, takes a more casual approach as it’s takes inspiration from the internet and streetwear. The silhouettes seen in its 2017 spring/summer lookbook share similar loose, Korean shapes to that of D.GNAK but are layered with patterns, colorful collage prints, warped typography, and transparent fabrics. In addition to the thoughtful designs of each line, Kang has also taken into consideration every detail of the art direction surrounding the clothes — with meticulous sound design, and uniquely crafted videos and sets for each lookbook. For a closer look at DBYD’s 2017 spring/summer collection, check out the photos and video below.
