HAENGNAE is a Tokyo-based fashion brand that perfectly blends romance and edginess in its designs. Created by Anna Choi, a Korean designer who was born in Kobe, Japan, HAENGNAE has quickly gained recognition for its unique and beautiful collections. Anna Choi, the creative force behind HAENGNAE, was born in 1992 in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Her passion for fashion led her to study in both New York and Japan, where she honed her design skills. In 2018, Anna graduated from Bunka Fashion College’s Apparel Design Department. As a scholarship student, she had the opportunity to study at Nottingham Trent University in England, further enriching her design perspective.
Making its debut in the Fall Winter of 2021, the brand’s name, “HAENGNAE,” is derived from Anna’s Korean name and represents her unique identity. The concept behind HAENGNAE is to create fashion for “strong romantics” who embrace intelligence and courage, living life to the fullest. The brand’s designs feature romantic elements such as large frills, puff sleeves, and ribbons, which are seamlessly incorporated into everyday dresses and suits through careful tailoring reminiscent of haute couture.
HAENGNAE’s “Chapter 06” Collection drew inspiration from Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel, “Little Women.” Set in 19th century Massachusetts, USA, the novel portrays the lives of four sisters. HAENGNAE’s interpretation brought a fresh and vibrant perspective to the story, celebrating women’s independence and resilience. This collection showcased the brand’s signature style, with washable silk gowns adorned with luxurious French antique lace and voluminous skirts made of shape-memory material, creating a distinctively bouncy silhouette. The lineup also included a light poplin shirtdress and a rattan and leather trunk bag, evoking the image of carefree young girls frolicking in meadows, full of dreams for the future.
At the heart of HAENGNAE’s design philosophy is the concept of “loving.” Anna believes in the value of cherishing and passing on the essence of things. The brand encourages diverse ideas about race and gender, emphasizing the importance of self-love and extending love to animals and the natural environment. By wearing HAENGNAE, individuals can express their love and strength, as the brand’s creations embody the spirit of the “strong romantics.” Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to make people feel empowered, confident, and ready to pursue their dreams.
