NYFW: Hong Kong Fashion
The fashion world is known for having its own rules and trends, for being on a different level with its cutting-edge designs, fabrics and colors. But the glitz and glamour don’t exist in a bubble. With the rapid-fire spread of COVID-19, Fashion Week was turned on its head around the globe — especially in Milan and Paris. Design houses handed out face masks to guests before the start of their shows. Even Chanel and Louis Vuitton’s U.S. communications teams were instructed to stay home, skipping Milan and Paris shows altogether. Giorgio Armani did the usual designer runway bow at the end of his show, but to an empty theater.
The scene looked different during New York Fashion Week, which took place in February. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) held the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show at Spring Studios in New York City, showcasing three up-and-coming Hong Kong designers: HEAVEN PLEASE+, Harrison Wong and SUN=SEN. This was before we saw COVID-19 cases in all 50 U.S. states and before restrictions were put in place.
Established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade, HKTDC organizes international events to create business opportunities, with a focus on small- to medium-sized enterprises. HKTDC participates in fashion weeks in New York, Paris, Copenhagen, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai to promote their fashion designers and labels.
While most of the world has to stay indoors right now, enjoy each Hong Kong designer’s fall/winter 2020 collections.
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HEAVEN PLEASE+
Designer: Larry Cheung and Yi Chan
They founded their brand in 2011 and launched the first collection in 2012. They aim to bring “individuality to simple clothing, so that the looks of people can speak genuinely for themselves.”
FW20 Collection: “Girl, You’ll be a Woman Soon”
Inspiration: Princess of Wales and traditional British royal costumes
Fashion Editor Notes: I instantly thought of the film “Little Women.” There was a look for all of the March sisters. The pinstripe blazer and printed maxi skirt was perfect for Jo; the purple plaid and black tulle look had Amy written all over it; the off-the-shoulder beige maxi dress for Meg; and the track ruffled floral jacket with matching asymmetrical skirt for Beth.
HARRISON WONG
Designer: Harrison Wong
Wong is a winner of both the Hong Kong Young Designer’s Contest and Grand Prix Contest in Japan. His designs can be found in high-profile shops such as L’Eclaireur in Paris and Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong.
FW20 Collection: Abstract Composition
Inspiration: Abstract visual art
Fashion Editor Notes: I’m very much into these simple and structured, lined looks. These looks are very “Timothée Chalamet” (the actor who plays Laurie in “Little Women”), especially the short, green, double-breasted trench with mauve piping, paired with a mauve sweater and gray trousers.
SUN=SEN
Designer: Sun Lam
Lam is from a family with a garment background. She “seeks to work with something unexpected and fun, with the intention of bringing these elements into the traditional clothing industry.”
FW20 Collection: “I Swear I’m A Nice Ghost”
Inspiration: ‘90s vintage streetwear with a mysterious sense of unknown romance
Fashion Editor Notes: Playful and pops of color. Some looks definitely reminded me of the ‘90s and the show “In Living Color.”
