Asian NYFW Featured In Eastern Standard Times
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Original Article Written By Keshia Hannam for Eastern Standard Times
Walking into the runway show of Asian NYFW, the first thing that’s different is how diverse the room was. The range of folks scrambling for seats and clamoring for a view of the catwalk still feels unusual, even in a city like New York. Turns out, that audience is a reflection of the multitudinal lives and cultures of the designers taking their shot on the big stage that is New York City.
Historically, there aren't the same kinds of arenas for Asian designers as for others. In fact, to even say “Asian designers” could conjure up some form of stereotype. Limited to specific cultural references or perceived as exotic or 'other’, a new wave of Asian designers is challenging these preconceptions and showcasing their talent. It’s what inspired the concept of a Fashion Week specifically geared towards Asia and the Asian diaspora. From traditional fabrics to completely modern silhouettes, these designers are redefining the boundaries of fashion and proving that Asian style is just as diverse, innovative, and influential as any other.
Asian NYFW is a fashion initiative celebrating a new era of Asian designers, talents, and creativity. SZ2 launched at Daylight Studios Flatiron with 3 runway shows on Sept. 8, 2024 showcasing 17 designers and over 100 models from around the world. On the heels of this show, we sat down with seven designers that comprised the community showcasing their art to packed audiences.
Alexander King Chen is a multifaceted creative individual known primarily for his work in fashion and film. He wears multiple hats, serving as a designer, producer and stylist. Chen's work often reflects a blend of fashion, art, and storytelling – he’s known for his ability to create visually compelling and thought-provoking content.
Eastern Standard Times:
Tell us your earliest memory of knowing you wanted to be a designer.
Alexander King Chen:
I knew I wanted to be a designer since I was a fetus.
Eastern Standard Times:
What steps are you taking to make your fashion line more sustainable, and how do you incorporate sustainable practices while maintaining a luxurious aesthetic?
Alexander King Chen:
We made 3 humanitarian/art/fashion/music short films (INHUMAN LOVE, KILL-NURN, ARE YOU IN HEAVEN) that have won a multitude of awards throughout the industry that lead me to redirect my stance. Five years ago, I stopped mass production and have decided to only accept project based work due to the toxicity of overproducing. This decision strangely benefited my label and what I created! It's been a great decision so far.
Eastern Standard Times:
Are there specific elements or traditions that you draw inspiration from?
Alexander King Chen:
My inspirations generated are through storytelling and emotions rather than by traditional means. So Asian elements that flow through my collections would be due to a part of my story telling or for a specific reason. I once designed a collection based on 15 Japanese characters I created to save the world. Each character tied to the next and played an integral part to the story line. On stage it played out like a fashion show, but actually had a plot. Patrons came to the show with a semi-sort of script printed out of each character and their “dialogue”.
Eastern Standard Times:
What are the biggest challenges you face as a designer in the global fashion market, and what specific tools help you overcome them?
Alexander King Chen:
I have WAY too much to say about this, I’ve been in the industry for over 20 years. Please feel free to DM me and we can converse there!
Siri Studios is a fashion brand known for its stylish and comfortable clothing. Their pieces are designed to empower women, celebrate individuality, and focus on quality materials and ethical production.
Eastern Standard Times:
Which parts of your Asian heritage or culture do you weave into your design aesthetic? Are there specific elements or traditions that inspire you?
Siri Studios:
Growing up in a rural Thai village, surrounded by rice farmers, my childhood was a world apart from the life I later experienced in Germany. This cultural shift—moving from a conservative environment where modesty was valued to a society more open about sexuality—was eye-opening. In Germany, I quickly noticed the sexualization of Thai women, which clashed with the values I was raised with. While I initially felt conflicted and unsure how to approach topics like body image and sexuality, I later realized that ignoring these issues doesn’t make them go away. Through my designs, I aim to open up dialogue and challenge the norms, especially around how women’s bodies are perceived and discussed.
Eastern Standard Times:
What steps are you taking to make your fashion line more sustainable, and how do you incorporate sustainable practices while maintaining a luxurious aesthetic?
Siri Studios:
Sustainability is a core aspect of my design practice. I believe designers have the power to reshape how people interact with fashion, and I want to contribute to an industry that urgently needs innovative, sustainable solutions. My most recent collection was 99% made from used garments and materials. I utilized upcycled underwear and tights, and even developed my own circular textile from old, damaged clothes donated by Goodwill. This process involved hand-shredding old T-shirts made of cotton and polyester, and transforming them into new fabrics using a combination of felting techniques. It’s about giving new life to what would otherwise be waste, while still creating pieces that feel luxurious.
Eastern Standard Times:
What emerging trends or technologies do you see shaping the future of fashion, and how are you adapting your designs to these changes?
Siri Studios:
One of the most important trends is the shift toward more conscious consumerism. People are more mindful of how and where they buy their clothes. This awareness is influencing how designers, especially emerging ones, approach their work. Many are turning to traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices, prioritizing quality and longevity over fast fashion. I’ve embraced these principles by focusing on upcycling and sustainable fabric innovation.