As part of Lane Crawford’s “Created in China” programme, in which we nurture and champion new and emerging talent from the region, Cynthia & Xiao is the newest name in contemporary fashion.

Hong Kong-born Cynthia Mak’s final degree show collection at London’s prestigious design school Central Saint Martins caught the attention of Italian Vogue and led to stints at Vivienne Westwood, Alexander Wang, Preen and eventually, Lane Crawford, before pairing with fellow CSM graduate Xiao Xiao. With years of individual training between them, the duo are now more than the sum of their parts, and their burgeoning label focuses on garments with an easy simplicity and a beautifully artistic bent.

The Autumn Winter 2015 collection showcases wearable separates featuring bold abstract geometric prints and pieces are finished with unexpected flourishes such as paracords, which are most often used in aerial suspension. The handmade braided cords, usually fashioned from nylon and used on parachute fastenings, display nothing of their utilitarian heritage, appearing as lean, lavish, textural additions. “We like to use unique details to create an eye-catching look,” explains Mak.

The label is now also looking to establish a studio in Beijing and to bring its production in house, where it will, Mak says, endeavour to create a whole spectrum of new products. “We hope that we will become an internationally recognised Chinese brand,” she says. This dynamic and confident approach comes on the back of an award from Vogue Talent Asia, which saw the label honoured as one of the region’s hottest new names.

Echoing Lane Crawford’s forward-looking ethos in this anniversary year, Cynthia & Xiao are part of a wonderful new wave of Chinese design that we are proud to celebrate.