ATEEZ’s Hongjoong Shines at Debut Fashion Show, Petit Coussin
Hongjoong, the leader of K-pop group ATEEZ, showcased his creative talents during his debut fashion show for his clothing line, Petit Coussin. This collection, unveiled on November 7 to celebrate his 27th birthday, was presented through a filmed fashion show on ATEEZ’s YouTube channel.
Hongjoong’s Journey as a Designer
Hongjoong has been pivotal in elevating ATEEZ from an underdog group to international superstars. Over the past seven years, they have achieved monumental success, including charting twice on the Billboard 200 and becoming the first K-pop boy group to perform at Coachella.
The debut fashion show featured 24 unique looks, inspired by childhood memories and divided into four segments, each representing a different time of day. Young models showcased the designs, embodying the whimsical essence of Hongjoong’s vision.
The Inspiration Behind Petit Coussin
The name Petit Coussin, which means “little pillow” in French, reflects Hongjoong’s nostalgic connection to his mother’s store that sold children’s clothing. He desired to create a line that captures the innocence of childhood, leading him to design children’s apparel first. Inspired by the details in smaller garments, he finds them both adorable and intriguing.
Design Process and Timeline
| Timeline | Activities |
|---|---|
| Past 6 Months | Conceptualized design ideas, sourced materials, and sketched initial pieces. |
| Recent Visits | Toured Dongdaemun market for creative inspiration and material selection. |
| Next Steps | Continues to express himself through fashion and plans future projects. |
Balancing Music and Fashion
Despite ATEEZ’s busy schedule, Hongjoong allocates time for personal projects, believing in the importance of self-expression. His focus on creating garments minimizes idle time. He channels his musical creativity into fashion design, with both avenues providing a fulfilling outlet.
Reflections on Personal Style
Hongjoong emphasizes the interplay between his stage persona and genuine self. While his onstage style signifies the group’s themes, his personal wardrobe reflects his individual character. He enjoys the freedom to express his mood through fashion, with no rigid plans.
His dedication to his craft—from music to fashion—unleashes his inner creativity. The debut of Petit Coussin paves the way for future projects, solidifying his commitment to self-expression and artistic exploration.