“I have a passion for both knitwear and traditional culture, for the richness and beauty of heritage, and I want to safeguard and promote traditional culture using fashion and knitwear as my canvas.”

Duan is a passionate advocate for the fusion of traditional culture and modern fashion. She obtained a Higher Diploma in Fashion Design from the Hong Kong Design Institute in 2023, and her talent and dedication gained recognition when she was a finalist in both the HKDI x CLO Digital Design Competition 2022 and the HKDI 2023 Graduation Fashion Show.  She is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in Fashion Design with a specialisation in Knitwear at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Duan's wish to blend traditional culture with contemporary fashion is evident in her creative work. Her Final Year Project, "Shadow Puppetry," draws inspiration from Chinese shadow play, incorporating its elements into the patterns, fabrics, and silhouettes. In her knitwear, she skillfully showcases the harmonious coexistence of modern trends and age-old traditions, infusing their essence into the design. Handknit materials, intricate stitching using a flatbed knitting machine, and the innovative use of fusible bonding yarn to create stunning 3D silhouettes are key features of her collection. Duan provides a platform for the diversity and adaptability of heritage, and also hope to introduce positive change in the fashion industry.

Duan plans to study fashion in London and Belgium, with a focus on knitwear and 3D silhouettes in order to gain deeper understanding of the balance between commercial value and artistic innovation. She wants to breathe new life into old customs and cultures, ensuring their relevance and longevity in the ever-evolving world of fashion.