Designer Richard Chai at Fashion Week Spring 2009 Collection

A New York native, Korean-American Richard Chai began his career in fashion at an early age with a prestigious internship at Geoffrey Beene while an undergraduate at Parsons School of Design. Upon graduation, Chai continued his studies at the Lissa School in Paris, where he also worked as a sketcher at Lanvin.

While working at some of the industry’s top fashion houses, including Donna Karan and Marc Jacobs, Chai developed a strong design philosophy with an emphasis on the importance of construction and attention to detail. In September 2001, the designer was appointed Creative Design Director of all TSE brands, including men’s, women’s and TSE Say, marking the first time in the company’s history that one person oversaw all brands. He’s been nicknamed the “Wonder Boy”.

In September 2004, Chai launched his eponymous collection to rave reviews. His debut showcased the designer’s minimalist aesthetic and reflected his fine-tuned sensibility and penchant for clean lines and classic craftsmanship. Utilizing old-world techniques of construction and innovative tailoring, Chai continues to set himself apart from his contemporaries. Strong architectural references and intricate details reveal the emphasis he places on the craft of making clothes and deliver a look that remains modern, sophisticated and quietly feminine. (He was also one of People Sexiest Man Alive in 2004.)

In 2005, Chai was honored with the annual Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation Award, in recognition of his emergence as a new talent in fashion design. In 2007, the designer’s achievements were further recognized as he was inducted as a member of the CFDA.

Richard Chai has become a fashion favorite of editors and celebrity fans including Kate Hudson, Blake Lively, Sarah Jessica Parker and Christina Ricci.

Richard also has a line at Target. The exclusive Richard Chai for Target collection is part of the GO International initiative at Target. GO International, which provides affordable luxury from world renowned designers, will feature the Richard Chai for Target collection in select Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com.

Runway highlights from Richard Chai at Fashion Week in New York, Spring 2009 Collection