Chicago Designer Spotlight: Cyndi Chan (Nov 06)

Just three years out of New York, Cyndi Chan has emerged as a leading designer on the Chicago fashion scene.  

A stand-out participant in local fashion shows, charity events and trunk shows, Cyndi was recently selected to showcase her collection in the recently opened Macy’s Local Designer Shop.

Educated in Hong Kong and trained in New York, where she worked for various designer labels including DKNY, she brings a remarkably diverse set of skills to her designs, which range from casual to couture.  

Since the 2003 launching of her company, In Time LLC, Cyndi has created three distinctive brands: Ori'en, her signature line of stylish ready-to-wear women’s and men’s clothing; Cyndi Chan Couture, one-of-a-kind evening and bridal gowns; and Zen Tee, casual tops for every member of the family, inspired by pop and cultural icons.

The designer's priorities are evident throughout the Ori'en  and Couture lines. From the high quality of the fabrics she selects. To the custom fitting in which she specializes. To the "where did you get that?" pow of her wearable designs. To her commitment to Chicago: all of her collections are manufactured by local seamstresses.

 

The current Fall/Holiday Ori'en collection is titled Independent Chic – A Trip to Remember.

The women’s line consists of elegantly feminine classic pieces, updated for current trends but wearable for many seasons. A significant portion of her collection is in black and/or white. The smaller men's line is a choice collection of edgier fashions.  

Inspired by the signature style of Jackie O, Cyndi has created some of the season's must-haves. From stunning wool/cashmere opera coats, to beautiful trench coats that double as dresses, to sleeveless sheath dresses, the look is absolutely right on.  

The entire line, in sizes S/M, M/L, is affordably priced between $80-450. Customers can easily build their closet around Cyndi's designs – having favorite staples for years to come.  

For shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind creations, Cyndi Chan turns her hand to casual as well as couture. Her custom-fit denim line Ori Jean is priced between $350-800. Unique detailing and embellishments assure that each pair looks, as well as fits, like no other.  

Cyndi Chan’s Couture dresses are custom-made, one-of-a-kind bridal or evening gowns starting at $1200. Her beautifully-crafted, sophisticated designs help create the dress of a woman's dreams for her wedding day, a special event, or a walk down the red carpet.

The Zen Tee collection is just plain fun. It started as a line of printed tees/tanks for women to wear under a jacket, but were so popular that customers requested styles and sizes for their entire family. One could call the collection "customer-made."  

Now even baby can wear Andy Warhol-like prints, or show off favorite musicians including the Beatles, U2, Neil Young, and Bob Dylan, and cultural icons like Audrey Hepburn. Two best sellers include the Einstein “Genius Loves You,” and Techno Buddha. Tees for Bears, Cubs or Sox fans are also available.  

This talented, versatile designer is definitely one to watch for the long term. And we’re already watching for her Spring collection (due out in January).

Her designs can be found at: 

Ori'en clothing line is at Casa de Soul (Wicker Park) and Macy's (State Street).  

Zen Tees can be found at Hanger 18 (Lincoln Square) and Shorty’s (Wicker Park).

For inquiries about her Couture line, contact Cyndi Chan directly at 773.252.9055.

 

Photos courtesy of Cyndi Chan.

SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – E. Engquist.

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. SeeMoreShopping incurs all expenses associated with reviews.  Publ. 12/2/06.