C2H4

C2H4, Yixi Chen’s retro-futuristic brand based in Los Angeles, is a reflection of rebellion and scientific philosophy. This label, which is named after the molecular formula for ethylene (which phonetically translates to “Yixi” in Chinese), has crafted an original style of menswear through the use of experimental hi-tech garment construction. Having left China at age 17 to study film and theatre at the University of California, Chen decided to pursue a career in fashion and started C2H4 in 2014. She was inspired by her love for cinema and science-fiction culture, which led her to focus on the creation of textiles. Her designs draw on themes such as hypothetical space scientists, binary codes and DNA nucleobases, imbuing sport and streetwear pieces with modern functionality and intricate details. Chen utilizes her studio as a laboratory to develop her clothing, such as lounge pants, shorts and jackets, which are customized with 3M reflective elements and contrast piping. T-shirts and hoodies, which are adorned with vintage tech-inspired graphics and logos, are also part of her collection.