artLIVE – London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2026 has just officially launched the streetwear collection of Oscar Ouyang – a young designer from Beijing, currently living in London.
Oscar Ouyang graduated from Central Saint Martins University with a major in Knitwear. He approaches knitwear not just as a technique, but as a storytelling language. For this show, he presented a collection that fuses folklore and streetwear, combining intricate craftsmanship with a modern, wearable aesthetic.
SS26 collection inspiration
Oscar Ouyang’s SS26 collection continues the narrative he has been cultivating over seven years at Central Saint Martins. Seeking to harmonize traditional cultural materials, the spirit of streetwear, and refined craftsmanship, Ouyang created a line that is practical for everyday wear while clearly reflecting his personal style and unique design identity.
The show opened with a military-inspired jacket, styled with shimmering shorts and a matching tasseled scarf. This was followed by a series of layered streetwear looks, such as three-quarter knit leggings under feathered shorts, paired with a soft grey T-shirt and a beanie, or short-sleeved knit tops adorned with tassels, combined with functional trousers and sneakers.
Tradition Meets Modern Design
Ouyang chose heritage fabrics like Donegal wool and Harris tweed. Though traditionally heavy, he adapted them to be lighter and more breathable, suitable for the Spring/Summer season. His designs preserve the spirit of traditional knitwear with Aran stitches (cable and honeycomb patterns from Ireland) and Fair Isle knitting (repeated color patterns from Scotland).
Instead of maintaining conventional silhouettes, Ouyang created asymmetrical, off-shoulder, and elongated forms, enhanced with tassels and loose threads. Thin decorative cords and fringes add movement, turning each outfit into a dynamic streetwear language.
Another highlight is the feather detailing, subtly applied to sneakers and headpieces. Lightweight crochet tops made from linen and silk complement the warm season, paired with technical khaki jackets for a contemporary touch.
All outfits were completed with classic Converse sneakers. This approach allows each design to balance storytelling and wearability, while showcasing Ouyang’s skill in blending cultural heritage with handcrafted techniques.
References
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