Living Light is A.Oei Studio’s 2026 collection, inspired by the ways in which life generates light.

Print concept development:

The starting point is based on an article about how living tissues emit light, a phenomenon known as ultra-weak photon emission. While this phenomenon is different from bioluminescence, which generally refers to intentional light signals produced by creatures such as fireflies or the anglerfish, it led me into further research about how light is generated by living organisms.

From here, I became curious about the jellyfish. In particular, a type of jellyfish called “Moon Jelly”. Also known as “Aurelia Aurita”, (golden, furnished with ears), its thin, translucent bodies create a glowing illusion, and its ear-shaped gonad can be seen through the top of the bell. At this point, I discovered an old sketch of mine. I don’t remember how this sketch came about, but I saw a connection between its simple calligraphic lines, the dome-like shape of her body, with Moon Jelly. These became the design reference for the print.

After scanning in the sketch, I tested different pattern configurations, proportions, color. As I worked through the design, I was drawn to the festive glow of colors combined with the varying lines. Playful and strange.

Design development:

Taking inspiration from the concept board, I started experimenting with rounded sleeves, shifting seam lines, manipulated textures that combine translucent organza with shiny, opaque silks.

Collection Showcase at Eco Fashion Weekend

I am excited to have presented the collection at Eco Fashion Weekend 2026.

Many thanks to Anisa Johnny, the driving force behind Eco Fashion Weekend, a volunteer-led event focused on sustainable fashion in South East Asia. Also to the production team, dressers, models, hair-makeup artists, designers and photographers who put this special show together — good vibes.