Alexander Wang - Vogue Voices

Summary

In a dynamic exploration of fashion, Alexander Wang discusses the evolution of his brand and creative philosophy, emphasizing storytelling and connection with audiences. He reflects on his journey from a Parsons student to a prominent designer, drawing inspiration from music and art. Wang's approach is rooted in everyday wear, aiming for comfort and accessibility without sacrificing style. He innovatively merges high fashion with practical pieces, believing in the importance of authenticity and emotional engagement in his work. His designs continue to resonate with diverse customers, marking his significant impact on the industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 Fashion is constantly evolving, driven by the passion of those in the industry.
• 🎨 Alexander Wang aims to tell a story and build a connection with his audience through his designs.
• 🏆 His brand is influenced by sportswear, emphasizing comfort and relatability.
• 🎶 Music plays a significant role in Wang's creative process, inspiring his collections and shows.
• 💡 The design process is organic, often starting from abstract ideas and evolving through collaboration.
• 🌍 Wang's audience is diverse, with customers of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
• 💪 He emphasizes the hard work behind fashion, which is often glamorized.
• 💰 Accessibility is crucial; Wang aims to create designs that people can afford and relate to.
• 🔄 His early designs have evolved, with core elements still present in his current collections.
• ✨ Wang’s approach includes a focus on creating impactful runway shows that resonate with audiences.

Q & A

What inspired Alexander Wang to start his own brand?

Wang was inspired by his desire for a new challenge after finishing his sophomore year at Parson's and wanted to tell stories while building a connection with customers.

How does Wang describe the role of sportswear in his designs?

He sees sportswear as a fundamental reference, emphasizing comfort and relatability, which he aims to elevate through his designs.

What is Wang's approach to the inspiration process for his collections?

His inspiration is organic and often arises from abstract feelings or reactions to previous works, involving a collaborative dialogue with his team.

How does music influence Alexander Wang's fashion shows?

Music plays a crucial role in shaping the perception of his shows and campaigns, with various genres inspiring the overall aesthetic.

What concept did Wang incorporate into his fashion shows, similar to concert performances?

He introduced the idea of an 'encore performance' to fashion shows, where additional looks are presented after the initial show ends, enhancing the audience's experience.

What does Wang say about the perception of the fashion industry?

He notes that the industry is often glamorized but involves hard work and behind-the-scenes effort that people may not fully appreciate.

What is the significance of accessibility in Wang's designs?

Wang emphasizes the importance of creating fashion that is accessible in price without compromising on the designer aesthetic, aiming for widespread wearability.

What was one of Wang's earliest memorable fashion experiences?

He recalls taking a magazine from a hair salon and obsessively studying it, which ignited his interest in fashion design.

How has Wang's perspective on fashion shows evolved over time?

He has learned to balance runway expectations with customer needs, leading to the development of core elements that reflect everyday wearability.

What does Wang believe is essential for a brand's success?

He believes a brand should connect with its audience and tell a story, which he sees as foundational to the value of fashion.