Korean American Jennifer Park is a friend to every girl looking for more than the usual fast fashion labels, but who still needs to be budget-friendly. Cue her line Funktional, which offers high-quality clothing at affordable prices. But beware — the line isn’t for wallflowers. Just look at some of Park’s favorite designers: Ann Demeulemeester, who favors deconstruction with intricate detailing, and Japanese designer Junya Watanabe, known for his innovative collections. Or her biggest celebrity client Rihanna, who was spotted wearing Funktional’s black “Cage” dress in 2009.
Rihanna, left, wearing Funktional's cage dress.
That year Park debuted Funktional with (you guessed it) functionality as the key, yet “far from basic,” she assures. Park’s inspirations come from the past, present and future, and her fashion-forward thinking shines through with each collection. Funktional’s selling point isn’t just the thrifty price line; it’s also wearable despite the futuristic elements.
