The Evolution of Pronounce: Reflecting on a Decade of Effortless Tailoring

Jun Zhou and Yushan Li, the founders of Pronounce, recently celebrated the brand’s 10th anniversary by exploring the essence of their wardrobe. The brand has always been known for its blend of relaxed, precise tailoring with a unique vision of sportswear that focuses on attitude rather than mere fashion statements.

The inspiration for Pronounce’s fall 2026 collection, titled Wooden Pagoda, came from a profound journey that allowed the designers to reconnect with their roots. The Yingxian Pagoda in China’s Shanxi province served as a symbol of resilience and adaptability. Standing as the tallest wooden pagoda in the world, it was constructed without nails using the Sun-Mao interlocking system, withstanding the test of time and various challenges. This structural intelligence served as the foundation for the collection, evident in the color palette, tactile fabrics, sculptural cuts, layering techniques, and impeccable craftsmanship.

Embracing a dialogue between Eastern and Western influences, Zhou and Li reintroduced archival pieces from past collections to the runway, paying homage to their journey thus far. Each garment told a story, with look number 25 reminiscent of their debut show in Italy with the spring 2019 collection. Pronounce’s vision is rooted in the idea of inclusivity, with garments designed to be shared among diverse individuals who appreciate unique, timeless pieces.

For Pronounce, tradition is not a stagnant concept but a dynamic network of connections. Tangzhuang jackets, denim, ties, hooded shirts, tailored shorts, and technical trousers seamlessly coexist within the brand’s wardrobe. The color palette defies convention, with primary hues like yellow, blue, and red injecting vibrancy into more subdued tones of cream, black, taupe, gray, and caramel. Fabric play a crucial role in creating fluidity, with silk treated to mimic the lightness of nylon juxtaposed against the rigidity of wool and heavier textiles.