Designer Claudia Poh has said the future of fashion will be driven by the body itself, rather than by trends or external aesthetics, according to a report from a+ Singapore published on Monday, 10 August 2026.
In the interview, Poh argued that design should start from how clothing interacts with and responds to the wearer's physical form. This approach, she suggested, marks a departure from traditional fashion cycles that prioritize seasonal looks over comfort and movement.
The comments, reported by a+ Singapore, position the body as the central reference point for upcoming collections. Poh's view implies a broader industry shift toward garments that adapt to individual shapes and needs, rather than forcing wearers to conform to standardized sizing or fleeting styles.
According to the publication, this body-led philosophy could influence not only how clothes are cut and constructed but also how designers think about materials and functionality. The emphasis is on creating pieces that feel natural and supportive, with the wearer's anatomy determining the design logic from the outset.
The report did not provide specific details on upcoming projects or timelines from Poh, but her statement signals a clear direction for her work. As the fashion world increasingly debates sustainability and inclusivity, a body-first framework offers one possible answer to both concerns by reducing waste from ill-fitting garments and broadening who fashion serves.
What to watch next is whether other designers adopt a similar body-led approach in their upcoming showcases, and how consumers respond to clothing that prioritizes physical experience over visual spectacle.
