An Immersive Exploration at the Intersection of Art, Technology, and Civilization The NextG ARTECH Exhibition officially opened its doors to the public at 445 Park Avenue in New York City, offering a groundbreaking immersive experience that redefines the relationship between art, technology, and humanity. Conceptualized by Edward Q. Zeng, Founder of Artech and NextG Art Group, ARTECH presented an immersive journey where the timeless power of art meets the tools of tomorrow. Centered on themes of sustainability, peace, and human civilization, the exhibition was designed to evoke, inspire, and expand the cultural conversation around how creativity and technology are shaping our world. Founder of Artech and NextG Art Group, Edward Q. Zeng said, “At this decisive hour, we proclaim the birth of a new movement: a living platform where creators, dreamers, and builders unite — not merely to innovate, but to inspire a civilization founded on imagination, compassion, and shared destiny.” The exhibition was presented by the NextG Artech Foundation, a new organization envisioned and founded by Edward Zeng, committed to creating new pathways where art and technology meet— supporting artists, thinkers, and engineers through awards, grants, and commissions. It champions practices that transcend conventional boundaries and positions art as an active agent in shaping our future. Curated by Yanhan Peng, Artists Miao Jing and novelist Aidos Amantai inaugurated the year-long “ARTECHISM – The Future of Art & Technology in Human Civilization” exhibition series. Blending sculpture, text, sound, video, and print, their works explore the liminal spaces between digital and physical, past and future, fiction and reality, offering a layered meditation on human thought and transformation. A living, evolving exhibition, ARTECH will feature new monthly installations, sparking an ongoing dialogue about the timeless power of art and the emerging tools of tomorrow. An invite-only preview event took place on May 7, convening a once-in-a-generation cultural summit — a high-impact fusion of art, technology, finance, and human potential. The evening featured an immersive live performance created by Brooklyn-based director Katherine Wilkinson and writer Elizagrace Madrone, transforming the exhibition into an archaeological site of the future and inviting guests on a poetic, participatory journey through movement and storytelling. Edward Q. Zeng is a visionary entrepreneur, venture investor, and futurist, known for his leadership across emerging technologies such as Greentech, Fintech, Artech, AI, Blockchain, and Metaverse. Founder of NextG Tech Limited and China Bridge Capital, he oversees billions in assets and has been named a “Global Leader of Tomorrow” by the World Economic Forum. Zeng is also a film producer (Following Harry, Tribeca Film Festival 2024) and an advocate for the transformative power of art and technology. NextG ARTECH Exhibition Opening to the public: May 9, 2025 Location: 445 Park Avenue, New York, NY Website: Artech.org Contact:Artech@falcolnk.com ##

Tech accessory and lifestyle brand MOFT has launched the innovative Living My Flow campaign, a global initiative that celebrates the stories of multi-taskers, world travelers, and creative commuters who live life without limits. This campaign invites creators from across the globe to share their unique journeys through mini-documentaries, highlighting the seamless integration of MOFT products into their daily lives. By showcasing the tools that empower these individuals to achieve their goals with ease, MOFT is further cementing its commitment to supporting those who embrace an ever-evolving, dynamic lifestyle. “At MOFT, we believe in empowering individuals to define their own path. Our ‘Living My Flow’ campaign celebrates visionaries like Christopher, Sophie, Tommy, Cara, and Juno—self-driven, forward-thinking talents/creatives who challenge conventions and thrive on their own terms. By creating tools that adapt to their dynamic lifestyles, we aim to support them in transforming any environment into a canvas for their ambitions,” said Julianna He, Founder of MOFT. “MOFT is proud to be part of their journeys, helping them unlock their potential and live their flow, anywhere and everywhere.” The Living My Flow campaign features five visionary artists, each a trailblazer in their respective creative fields. These individuals embody a limitless mindset, forging their own paths to personal success and living in their unique flow. Their stories will not only inspire but also showcase how MOFT products help streamline their lives, making it easier to stay connected, inspired, and productive.

Introducing the Talents of Living My Flow

The featured artists in this campaign represent a range of creative disciplines, each bringing their own vision of inspiration, craftsmanship, and innovation. Together, they embody MOFT’s commitment to supporting diverse artistry and design that harmonizes with the environment and enhances daily life.

• Christopher Chan (aka HONORROLLER) – Wood Sculptor: Christopher Chan’s creative journey is about reconnecting with the childlike spirit that fuels his artistic drive. Through his work, he blends the energy of youth with the wisdom of adulthood, crafting art that celebrates freedom and self-expression. His sculptures reflect an intricate understanding of streetwear and sports while pushing the boundaries of traditional woodworking. With MOFT’s products, Chan is able to bring that creative spirit to life, creating wherever his inspiration strikes—proof that true freedom comes from embracing your inner flow.
• Sophie Collé – Furniture Designer: Sophie Collé’s design philosophy is all about embracing playfulness and color to bring joy into the spaces she creates. Once hesitant to experiment with bold hues, Sophie now infuses her work with personality, humor, and a sense of fun—transforming any space into a vibrant reflection of her playful spirit. With MOFT’s products, she brings this sense of freedom and creativity into her process, reminding us all that life is more enjoyable when we don’t forget to play.
• Tommy Bogo – Fashion Designer & Founder of TOMBOGO: Tommy Bogo, the founder and designer behind TOMBOGO™, is a visionary who bridges the gap between fashion and technology with his forward-thinking approach. As a designer constantly pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion, Bogo’s work is about more than just clothing—it’s about engaging the world in meaningful conversations about the intersection of fashion, function, and technology. His participation in Living My Flow highlights how MOFT’s products help him adapt and evolve as he continues to grow his transforming brand.
• Cara Marie Piazza – Sustainable Artist & Natural Dyer: Cara Marie Piazza creates unique art and textiles using natural dyes from plant-based and organic materials. Sustainability is at the core of her process, guiding both her creative work and leadership in eco-conscious practices. As part of the Living My Flow campaign, Cara emphasizes the meditative, effortless flow of her art, which draws inspiration from nature and her ever-moving surroundings. Working from her Brooklyn studio, she designs everything from home textiles to fashion collections. Her pieces feature a range of techniques—solid colors, ombré, dip-dyed, hand-painted prints, and one-of-a-kind swirled patterns enhanced with ice and salt. Through her art, Cara champions sustainability, adaptability, and mindful creativity.
• Juno Shen – Neon Artist: Juno Shen is a Brooklyn-based neon artist who brings bold, dynamic energy to her glass-blown neon installations. Specializing in custom neon lighting, she transforms spaces with vibrant color and fluid forms that create immersive, electric environments. Her work plays with light, shadow, and space, adding a layer of creativity and energy to everyday settings. As a frequent traveler, Juno’s nomadic lifestyle influences her work, capturing the essence of movement and adaptability. Her approach mirrors the Living My Flow campaign, seamlessly blending artistry with a life on the go. Whether creating in her Brooklyn studio or on the move, Juno’s work reflects a constant flow of creativity and inspiration.

The Living My Flow campaign perfectly encapsulates MOFT’s philosophy of creating functional, sustainable products that seamlessly blend into the lives of modern, creative individuals. By partnering with these diverse talents, MOFT continues to inspire a lifestyle that balances creativity, functionality, and environmental responsibility.

About MOFT

At MOFT, we stand for freedom to work and create anywhere. Our journey began with the Invisible Laptop Stand, driven by our need for adaptable, portable solutions. Today, we also empower your mobile, content-rich lifestyle. Our tools are lightweight, durable, and colorful, and reflect our commitment to sustainability. Inspired by origami and invisible design, they seamlessly adapt to any environment so you can “flex your flow” anywhere you go. Whether you’re in the city, moving between workspaces, or embracing the outdoors, MOFT is your companion for inspiration, focus, and boundless possibilities. ##

Made in USA menswear brand, Joseph Abboud launches its latest campaign, A Life Well Suited, celebrating impeccable style suited for every moment in a man’s life. The campaign stars actors Will Catlett, Ilfenesh Hadera, and U.S. Army Green Beret Nate Boyer, each bringing character and confidence to the brand’s timeless suiting. Against the backdrop of a stately chateau, the setting amplifies the sense of refinement and elegance long associated with Joseph Abboud. Looks featured include Ready-toWear, Custom Suiting, and Bespoke Joseph Abboud, the brand’s premium service available by appointment with its Master Tailor. Joseph Abboud is a top selling brand at Men’s Wearhouse with a robust Made in USA tailored business, operated by Tailored Brands, out of the longstanding Joseph Abboud Factory in New Bedford, Massachusetts, proudly creating domestically produced goods in the heart of New England. The campaign cast includes: Will Catlett is an American actor and producer acclaimed for his roles in True Story, a Netflix Limited Series and most recently Constellation for Apple TV and Abigail, bringing depth and charisma to every frame. Joseph Abboud “I’m honored to be a part of an iconic brand that has stood the test of time, with every stitch holding a story, and the story is still unfolding” says Catlett. Nate Boyer is a multifaceted American figure, having served as a U.S. Army Green Beret, filmmaker, and former professional football player. He represents a life built on purpose and resilience – qualities reflected in the brand’s DNA. “As a proud U.S. Army Veteran, I’m grateful to partner with Joseph Abboud—a Made in USA brand that embodies American craftsmanship and stands by people through life’s defining moments” shares Boyer. Ilfenesh Hadera is an American actress recognized for her outstanding roles in TV and film including Godfather of Harlem and Spike Lee’s upcoming film Highest to Lowest. She brings poise and power to the campaign’s narrative. “What a pleasure to have such a dynamic cast represent Joseph Abboud,” states Jameel Spencer, CMO Fashion & Athletic Verticals at WHP Global, which owns the Joseph Abboud brand. “This campaign is about more than clothes – it’s about the moments that shape us. The suit becomes part of that story: tailored to perfection, ready for the moment.” Shot by New-York based photographer Menelik Puryear, the visuals capture both polish and personality distinguished by rich textures, real light, and storytelling that feels livedin yet aspirational. A life well-lived is a life well-suited. The campaign launches today across the brand’s owned channels and will be featured in the May issue of VOGUE magazine.

About Joseph Abboud

For more than 30 years, Joseph Abboud has been dedicated to helping men from all walks of life look and feel their best. Proudly made in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and manufactured in the oldest bespoke & custom-tailoring factory in the USA. Joseph Abboud is available in over 1,400 retail locations in North America including Men’s Wearhouse, and in more than 90 locations in Japan, as well as online. For more information, visit josephabboud.com and follow on Instagram and Facebook.

WHP Global

WHP Global is a leading New York-based firm that acquires global consumer brands and invests in high-growth distribution channels including digital commerce platforms and global expansion. WHP Global owns a portfolio of consumer brands that collectively generate over $7 Billion in global retail sales. The company also owns WHP+, a turnkey direct to consumer digital e-commerce platform, and WHP SOLUTIONS, a sourcing agency based in Asia. For more information, please visit whp-global.com or follow @whp_global on social. ##

Andrew Kwon presented his tenth bridal collection, Aquarelle, at Nubeluz by José Andrés at The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad. With sweeping city views and an atmosphere that mirrored the collection’s dreamlike quality, guests were greeted with delicate afternoon tea bites and floor-to-ceiling floral installations. When Kwon encountered Paul Émile Chabas’s La baie des Dizes, Nymphes du Nord (1891), he was instantly transported to his childhood—mornings spent beside still lakes, watching the sunrise shimmer on the water’s surface. In those moments, he would lose himself in daydreams of mythical creatures and goddesses. With Aquarelle, he let that imagination lead, creating gowns that feel both otherworldly and instinctively modern. The collection draws from a painting, a memory, a dreamscape—capturing the soft magic of water nymphs bathed in northern light: fluid, glowing, and delicately powerful. From liquid organzas to weightless chiffons, each piece shimmered with silhouettes sculpted to reflect strength wrapped in softness. Andrew Kwon

ANDREW KWON

In just under four years, Korean-American NYC based emerging fashion designer, Andrew Kwon, has made waves in the world of luxury bridal and evening wear, with his creations gracing the pages of The New York Times, Vogue, Forbes, Elle, WWD, and being named Forbes 30 under 30 for the Class of 2025. Most recently, Andrew had the honor of dressing Chrissy Teigen for the Vanity Fair Oscar’s Party and in April, and continues to dress Hollywood’s elite including Constance Wu, Ashley Park, Lana Condor and Lucy Liu.

THE RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK, NOMAD

Located in the heart of Manhattan, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad is a contemporary luxury hotel known for its refined design and exceptional service. The event took place at Nubeluz by José Andrés, a rooftop venue offering panoramic views of the city skyline, providing a sophisticated setting for the debut of the Aquarelle collection. Conceived as a pillar of Manhattan’s renowned Floral District, the 250-key hotel boasts legendary restaurants and bars by Michelin-starred chef José Andrés, including Zaytinya, The Bazaar by José Andrés, and Nubeluz. The hotel is also home to the signature 6,800 sq ft The Ritz-Carlton Spa New York, NoMad featuring eight treatment rooms, aromatherapy saunas, steam rooms, and exclusive treatment offerings in partnership with Augustinus Bader. ##

Swim Week Las Vegas Powered By Art Hearts Fashion In Partnership With Resorts World has set a new standard in the fashion world positioning itself as a fashion and art festival that’s here to stay; what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. The inaugural Swim Week Las Vegas (SWLV) took place from August 15-19, 2024 through various properties at RWLV: Zouk Nightclub, Ayu Dayclub, Eight Lounge, Gatsby’s Cocktail Lounge, Fuhu, and others who hosted guests for exclusive dines and experiences. Swim Week Las Vegas brought together a curated lineup of over 15 distinguished designers, 5 world-class DJs, and multiple vibrant venues, crafting an extraordinary experience that transcended traditional fashion events. This festival seamlessly integrated high fashion, gourmet dining, and electrifying entertainment, offering attendees an unforgettable sensory journey. The diverse roster of designers at SWLV featured visionary talents, including local Las Vegas Couture Designer David Tupaz, Mister Triple X, Sharnel Guy Swimwear, Merlin Castell, Giannina Azar, For The Stars, Joseph Auren, Diana Couture, Asta Razma, Michael NGO, Pink Melon Swimwear, Naughty Boy Golf, Berry Beachy Swimwear, Love For Upcycling, The Black Tape Project, Airstream, and Styx Athletics. The event’s star-studded entertainment lineup included DJ sets by industry titans like Slander, Savi, Illenium, Kaskade, Duke Dumont, and Quenville. Not only did Swim Week Las Vegas make a significant impact in the fashion world, but it also created a meaningful opportunity to give back to the Las Vegas community. SWLV proudly hosted the Autism Pride Center (APC) for their inaugural fashion show, highlighting the platform’s unwavering commitment to inclusion and representation for all individuals. Art Hearts Fashion also partnered with MMGNET to host Style Oasis designed as a satellite event serving as another touchpoint for the fashion industry to connect during MAGIC, PROJECT, Sourcing at MAGIC and the wider Las Vegas fashion market week. Hosted by Zouk Group and sponsored by AIRSTREAM, the event featured runway presentations showcasing some of today’s hottest fashion, footwear, and accessories brands including the newest collection from Airstream and a special performance by Grammy Award-winning R&B sensation Macy Gray. The inaugural Swim Week Las Vegas establishes a new legacy where what happens in Vegas is not just unforgettable but also undeniably iconic— and here to stay. See selects below for a deeper delve into categorized fashion and events showcased during the Inaugural Swim Week Las Vegas In Partnership With Resorts World. SEE ALL PHOTO ASSETS HERE: DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 Notable Names Macy Gray Performs During Style Oasis 4th Impact Performs During APC Fashion Show Timur Tugberk and Macy Gray Backstage After Style Oasis Vegas Exclusive Looks Bet on local talent! Vegas’ own David Tupaz is the first and only designer to craft couture looks exclusively in Las Vegas. Explore these high-stakes, Vegas-exclusive designs and experience this glamor that can only be found in Sin City. David Tupaz Couture Asta Razma Maceoo Choose Your Character: The Black Tape Project West Coast Represent Designers Mister Triple X, Merlin Castell, For The Stars, Styx Athletics, Sharnel Guy, Milla Stone, Michael NGO, and Naughty Boy Golf all hail from the West Coast. Explore our top picks from these West Coast talents below. Mister Triple X x Kering Eyewear (Balenciaga, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Saint Laurent) Art Hearts Fashion President & Mister Triple X Designer Erik Rosete walks runway during show finale Merlin Castell Connie Pena (JLO Impersonator) For For The Stars Styx Athletics Sharnel Guy Swimwear Stunning Swimwear Berry Beachy Swimwear Milla Stone Pink Melon Swimwear Love For Upcycling Joana Almagro Resorts World LV Resort Wear Giannina Azar For The Boys Men In Swim Joseph Auren Models Celebrate Post Joseph Auren Show Naughty Boy Golf Models On Runway Post Naughty Boy Golf Show For The Stars Diana Couture Michael NGO

APC Fashion Show

APC is a dedicated provider of Jobs and Day Training in Southern Nevada, committed to empowering individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities. They offer opportunities and equip their participants with the skills needed to lead meaningful, purposeful lives and prepare for successful careers. During Swim Week Las Vegas, APC hosted their first fashion show as part of our shared mission of empowerment. See highlights below. APC Fashion Show Fashion Informed By Airstream Born out of Art Deco and driven for decades by an endless curiosity to see what’s over the next hill, Airstream has been around the world, down the highways, the backroads, the dirt and gravel roads, to places where sometimes there were no roads at all. They’ve been used as music studios, tattoo parlors, restaurants and cocktail bars, housed astronauts, actors, and more. You name it, they’ve done it. Airstream goes everywhere and it attracts everyone – the fashionable, the on-trend, the avant-garde, the pathmakers. And now they’ve hit the runway with a fashion collection inspired by this iconic symbol of freedom, adventure, and exploration. Airstream Looks On The Runway Select VIPs Jose Forteza and Luis Foretza at SWLV Juliet Schroder and Jozie Schroder pose at SWLV Shirley Reynozo and Nadgeena Jerome sit front row at SWLV Celebrations & Sponsors Bringing The Vegas Heat PHOTO CREDITS: Arun Nevader ℅ Getty Images (Runway) & Mark Gunter ℅ Getty Images (Ambiance) + Art Hearts Fashion SEE ALL PHOTO ASSETS HERE: DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 A special thank you to our sponsors Autism Pride Center, Beach Bxtch Bella, Empress Gin, Estate Cosmetics, Icon Hair, Japonesque, Lashes By Gretsha, Mad Hippie Beauty, Pacifica Beauty, Smart Water, and Vacation Inc. Icon Hair & Beauty Sponsors Featured Backstage

ABOUT ART HEARTS FASHION

Art Hearts Fashion is the leading platform dedicated to bringing innovative designers and artists to the forefront of fashion week. Our coast-to-coast contemporary events get the most renowned designers and the sharpest up-and-coming emerging designers to the runway in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Las Vegas and beyond. Founded in 2010, AHF has become a driving force for fashion, art, and entertainment. The shows have featured designers including Nicole Miller, Carmen Steffens, Hale Bob, Michael Costello, Trina Turk, Orlebar Brown, Patbo, Onia, Furne Amato, Walter Mendez, Vilebrequin, Jovani, Cotton INC, Black Tape Project, Mr. Triple X, and Michael NGO. For more information, please visit artheartsfashion.com or find us on Instagram.

ABOUT RESORTS WORLD LAS VEGAS

Since opening in 2021, Resorts World Las Vegas has become the premier destination on the Las Vegas Strip. Developed by Genting Berhad, a publicly traded Malaysian corporation registered with the Nevada Gaming Commission, the $4.3 billion resort is dedicated to providing guests with a one-of-a-kind luxury experience, complete with exceptional service, exquisite design, and unparalleled amenities. In a partnership with Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Resorts World Las Vegas integrates three of Hilton’s premium brands into its resort campus. With over 3,500 guest rooms and suites, featuring modern design and luxurious touches, the property consists of Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World, the resort’s full-service brand; Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World, Hilton’s lifestyle luxury brand; and LXR, Hilton’s network of independent luxury properties, which operates as Crockfords Las Vegas, Genting’s internationally renowned ultra-luxury brand. The fully integrated resort boasts a wide range of world-class amenities and services including a 117,000 square foot state-of-the-art fully cashless casino floor, a 5,000-capacity theatre featuring the entertainment industry’s top headlining talent, distinct day and nightlife venues, a curated retail collection featuring designer and boutique shops, a stunning 27,000-square-foot spa and wellness center, over 50 food and beverage offerings from across the globe and more. Resorts World Las Vegas has ushered in a new world for luxury resorts, and invites guests to indulge with friends. Resorts World Las Vegas is Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™ with Forbes Travel Guide while all three hotel brands are LEED Gold Certified. For more information, please visit rwlasvegas.com

About MMGNET Group

MMGNET Group is a portfolio of leading B2B fashion industry brands with a rich legacy of supporting the industry and powering the business of fashion forward. The portfolio includes MMGNET, fashion’s newest source for industry insights, trend forecasting, and business resources and parent brand to industry-leading fashion trade event brands MAGIC, PROJECT, COTERIE and Sourcing at MAGIC. MMGNET Group is a subsidiary of Informa Markets and is formerly known as Informa Markets Fashion. MMGNET Group is a subsidiary of Informa Markets (LON:INF). To learn more about the MMGNET Group portfolio, please visit mmgnetgroup.com. ## Learn More artheartsfashion.com With love, FWO

There’s a particular magic that happens when a designer honors tradition while fearlessly embracing the future. As I settled into my seat, Son Jung Wan’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection unfolded before me like a visual meditation on this very concept — each piece in her “Go with the Flow” presentation telling a story of reverence for craft and bold creative vision The IAC Building provided a fitting backdrop for a collection that so elegantly traversed time, merging avant-garde sensibilities with traditional elements. What struck me most wasn’t just the technical precision of the garments, but the philosophical depth underpinning them.

Past Meets Present

Son Jung Wan isn’t simply referencing the past in this collection – she’s having a conversation with it. The designs don’t replicate bygone eras but rather rediscover forgotten beauty through a contemporary lens. Each piece seemed to whisper stories of identity shifts and memory’s fluid nature. I found myself particularly drawn to the experimental silhouettes that have become something of a signature for the brand. These weren’t just clothes; they were artifacts of a creative journey through time, embodying Son Jung Wan’s cyclical evolution.

A Luminous Palette

The color story unfolded like poetry on the runway. It began with a Luminous Celestial Yellow that captured the essence of sunlight filtering through clouds – warm, hopeful, and undeniably uplifting. The introduction of Midnight Blue brought a sophisticated depth to the collection. This wasn’t just any blue, but one that evoked the vast mysteries of a night sky, creating a perfect counterpoint to the yellow’s brightness. Pastel Parchment moments offered interludes of calm nostalgia, with their soft, powdery undertones bringing a sense of timeless elegance to the proceedings. Black Ink served as the collection’s anchor – rich and dense, reminiscent of traditional calligraphy strokes. This wasn’t merely black for black’s sake, but a shade with cultural resonance and artistic weight.

Textural Symphony

The textile selection revealed Son Jung Wan’s nuanced understanding of materiality. Wool, cashmere, and angora created a foundation of softness, but were manipulated into deconstructed forms with layered details that kept them firmly in experimental territory. Metallic satin and silk captured and reflected light in ways that transformed with movement, their asymmetrical patterns creating visual intrigue from every angle. The patent leather and velvet pieces commanded attention through their intense textures. The deliberate cuts and layering techniques demonstrated how traditional luxury fabrics can be reimagined with bold, contemporary vision.

Global Influence

It’s worth noting that Son Jung Wan’s influence extends far beyond this single runway presentation. With 54 stores across Asia and 110 points of sale globally, she stands as the top-selling female-owned designer collection from Seoul. Her empire includes the SON JUNG WAN Women’s collection, SJ Wani Juniors, WANINI Men’s, and the SJW GOLF athleisure line – a testament to her versatility and enduring appeal. The Fall/Winter 2025 collection reaffirms why Son Jung Wan continues to captivate the fashion world. By inviting us to “Go with the Flow,” she’s created more than just beautiful garments – she’s offered a philosophical framework for approaching style with both mindfulness and freedom. Photos: Rodin Banica SHOW CREDITS: Production: Freesmeier Projects Stylist: Deborah Watson at Walter Schupfer Management Director: Lynne O’Neill at Hula Inc. Casting Director: Chad Thompson at communa-k inc. Public Relations: Krupp Group Backstage Photography: Kevin Tachman Runway Photography: Rodin Banica Music Director: Laurent Vacher at Labtonic Makeup: Marc Reagan for Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Hair: Matthew Curtis for Goldwell Nails: Nails by Pattie Yankee and Team PYP Dressers: Barbara Berman Backstage Scenic: ReadySet Lighting: Dave Overcamp at OPL Productions Video Direction: Tom Ford Films

The lights dimmed, and I found myself transported to a world where Shakespeare’s timeless stories met contemporary fashion. Stacey Bendet’s Fall 2025 collection for alice + olivia wasn’t just a presentation—it was theatrical storytelling through clothing, and I was captivated from the first look.

Shakespeare Is In Love

Walking through the elaborate presentation spaces, each designed as a stage-worthy set representing different Shakespearean plays, I couldn’t help but appreciate the depth of research that went into this collection. Bendet and her team had actually traveled to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, where they received special access to the Royal Shakespeare Company’s archives and costume collections dating back to 1879. The influence of this immersion was evident in every piece I examined. Dramatic lantern skirts reminiscent of 16th-century silhouettes stood alongside capes with lace-ornamented cuffs and collars. The jacquard fabrics illuminated with touches of gold caught the light beautifully, giving the collection a regal quality that felt both historical and thoroughly modern. What impressed me most was how literary references were woven directly into the garments—not as gimmicks, but as thoughtful design elements. I spotted an embroidered skirt featuring Shakespeare’s sonnets, and a black velvet full-skirted corset dress that Bendet confirmed was inspired by Lady Macbeth. The Shakespeare-themed ball gown was a showstopper that would make any English literature professor swoon.

Modern Juliets

Bendet’s genius lies in her ability to balance historical reverence with contemporary relevance. While examining a velvet party dress with intricate detailing, I noticed how seamlessly it could transition to today’s wardrobes when paired with the collection’s lace bodysuits or modern mini tweed skirt-and-blazer sets. “The beauty of this collection exemplifies how we can learn so much from the past to create in the present,” Bendet said of her inspiration. I particularly loved the rock-and-roll baroque elements that grounded the fantasy in reality: denim jackets adorned with bouquets of brooches, corsets styled with jeans, and suede stretch and latex leggings that gave the Shakespearean references an edgy twist. The textural play throughout was worthy of its own sonnet—pearls, velvet, bows, and appliqué created a tactile experience that complemented the visual feast. Famous Shakespearean quotes were cleverly incorporated into embroidery and prints, from The Merchant of Venice’s “All that glisters is not gold” to A Midsummer Night’s Dream’s “Though she be but little, she is fierce.”

Theatrical Sets and Beauty

The presentation itself was a journey through Shakespeare’s world. I moved from a blooming set of A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Juliet’s balcony overlooking her garden, then to a quintessential Shakespearean banquet and apothecary (another nod to Romeo and Juliet). An elaborate gold backdrop invoked The Merchant of Venice, and the experience concluded with a final quote from All’s Well That Ends Well: “Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.” The beauty looks perfectly complemented the collection’s theatrical nature. Lead stylist Matthew Curtis created modern Juliet-inspired hairstyles featuring jeweled braids adorned with cascading flowers. Makeup by T Cooper featured clean faces with glistening gold eyes and bold Lady Macbeth red lips. Kate Somerville added a touch of stage glamour by blending moisturizing cream with gold flakes for a subtle shimmer. This collection reinforces why alice + olivia has attracted such a devoted following since its launch in 2002. What began as Bendet’s quest to create the perfect pair of pants has evolved into a full lifestyle collection beloved by celebrities including Meghan Markle, Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Gwyneth Paltrow, Gigi Hadid, and Jessica Alba. The Fall 2025 collection will be available at alice + olivia boutiques globally, on aliceandolivia.com, and at over 800 select department and specialty stores worldwide. After experiencing this collection, I left with Shakespeare’s words echoing in my mind, but also with a renewed appreciation for how Bendet continues to juxtapose the whimsical and flirty with the sexy and sophisticated—allowing women to express their personal style through clothing that tells a story. Photos: Sam Spence

Walking into the Vautrait Autumn/Winter 2025 presentation during Paris Fashion Week, I was immediately struck by the collection’s philosophical underpinnings. The designer’s approach revealed a profound understanding that in fashion, there is never truly closure. I found myself contemplating how one collection naturally flows into the next—there is never a definitive endpoint, never a conclusive answer, only persistent questions. The questions may shift in their framing or narrative, but at their core, they remain unchanged—inquiries that will forever resist resolution. What fascinates me about Vautrait’s approach is how it positions fashion in contrast to technological or scientific pursuits. While those disciplines tend to move beyond unanswerable questions in favor of measurable outcomes, this collection embraces the mystery—a secret space beyond logic and language. It evoked the image of an agent carrying a secret in a suitcase, one they themselves cannot access. Perhaps this inaccessibility is precisely the point: some things must remain concealed, never fully revealed.

Beyond Function: The Revelation of Mistakes

The collection stands outside utilitarian thinking, where items are typically directed toward specific ends and contained within predetermined functions. Instead, I noticed how the designer embraced the concept of the “mistake” not as a mere error but as a rupture—an opening where something unexpected emerges. These disruptions weren’t accidents but revelations, demonstrating that creation isn’t simply executing a plan but an event occurring in the space between intention and resistance, between concept and handiwork. What resonated with me throughout the presentation was the embodied knowledge evident in each piece. When skilled hands work—whether tailoring, carving, or weaving—they don’t rigidly follow prescribed steps; they listen. This tacit knowledge resists complete verbalization, as language always arrives after the fact, attempting to capture what was already understood through the making. The hand possesses wisdom the mind cannot anticipate, maintaining a lineage of gestures transmitted across generations.

Archival Continuity

In this collection, Vautrait reworked numerous archival pieces, focusing solely on continuing this ongoing question rather than pursuing novelty for its own sake. The designer also deconstructed vintage discoveries, providing them a platform for reemergence. The result was a thoughtful meditation on fashion’s cyclical nature and the value of questioning over answering.

Ifound myself particularly intrigued by the thoughtful curation at the Asia Fashion Collection (AFC) NYFW February 2025 Runway Show on February 11th. The showcase, organized by Vantan and PARCO Co. Ltd., offered a genuine glimpse into the evolving design language of emerging Asian talents.

The runway featured five distinct brands across menswear and womenswear categories. What caught my attention was the subtle regional influences woven throughout each collection. From Japan, Yousuke Haga (@yousuke_haga) presented work that felt both technically precise and conceptually rich, while the BILL BILL collaboration between Kouki Sera & Kotarou Kawamura (@billbill_official) brought an unexpectedly fresh perspective. Sora Komatsu’s LITTLE BEDROOM (@little_bedroom_) offered intimate design narratives that stayed with me long after the show. Taiwan’s representation through PCES by Yu Chi Lee, Chih Yun Chang, and Bruno Hayon Chung (@pces_studio) demonstrated a compelling cross-cultural approach, while South Korea’s MEG KIM (@megk1m) showed a sophisticated understanding of contemporary silhouettes.

The production elements complemented the collections without overshadowing them – KuRoKo Inc.’s understated direction and Eric Cano’s thoughtful casting choices allowed the designs to speak for themselves. Kien Hoang for Oribe created hairstyles that enhanced rather than distracted, while Michelle Webb for AOFMPro developed makeup concepts that felt cohesive with each designer’s vision. Fernando Colon’s photography captured the nuanced details that might otherwise go unnoticed. New York Tokyo’s PR and creative direction tied these elements together with considered restraint.

For those who haven’t followed AFC’s development, it functions as an incubation project that provides emerging East Asian designers with significant global exposure. The selection process begins with Tokyo preliminaries, with winners earning their place at NYFW for AFC’s culminating showcase. What makes this platform valuable is its focus on designers who might otherwise remain within regional markets despite their evident talent.

The judging panel included notable industry figures with diverse perspectives – from Kaname Murakami (Editor-in-Chief of WWD JAPAN) as Chief Jury Member to buyers like Ren Osawa from Midwest who understand commercial viability, alongside creatives such as Yoshiro Kawasaki (CEO of Aout Inc.).

For more information on this initiative: https://asiafashioncollection.com/

Vantan, one of the organizing forces, has been developing “practical education” since 1965 with a philosophy centered on creating “the world’s closest school to society.” Their presence in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya has yielded approximately 200,000 graduates spanning numerous creative fields. Their alumni roster includes significant names like Kunihiko Morinaga (ANREALAGE) and Daiki Suzuki (Engineered Garments) – evidence of their effective approach. More details at https://www.vantan.jp

PARCO CO., LTD has been steadily cultivating cultural conversations since establishing Ikebukuro PARCO in 1969. While fashion forms their foundation, their reach extends into music, visual arts, and theater – consistently providing space for emerging cultural movements to take shape. Learn more: https://www.parco.co.jp

I left with a renewed appreciation for these cross-cultural design exchanges and the quiet innovation happening at the intersection of traditional techniques and contemporary vision.

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The purpose of the Asia Fashion Collection is to discover and nurture young designers who are from Asia. Organized by Vantan and PARCO. Co. Ltd., Asia Fashion Collection FW25 debuted February 11th, 2025 at NYFW showing both menswear and womenswear. Five brands revealed their collections during the runway show. All of the brands and designers are from Asian countries.

BRANDS

1. Yousuke Haga by Yousuke Haga- Japan @yousuke_haga
2. PCES by Yu Chi Lee, Chih Yun Chang and Bruno Hayon Chung – Taiwan @pces_studio
3. MEG KIM by Meg Kim – South Korea @megk1m
4. BILL BILL by Kouki Sera & Kotarou Kawamura – Japan @billbill_official
5. LITTLE BEDROOM by Sora Komatsu – Japan @little_bedroom_

Asia Fashion Collection (AFC) Credits PR/Beauty Acquisition & Creative: New York Tokyo Show Production: KuRoKo Inc. Casting: Eric Cano Hair: Kien Hoang For Oribe Makeup: Michelle Webb For AOFMPro Photography: Fernando Colon

About Asia Fashion Collection (AFC)

Asia Fashion Collection is an incubation project produced and sponsored by Vantan and PARCO CO., LTD, in partnership with other Asian affiliates. AFC provides a platform for emerging talent throughout East Asia to compete for a chance at global debut. Each Fall/Winter season, the brands that won the Tokyo preliminary debut their collections at the annual AFC’s final stage at NY Fashion Week. AFC is passionate about discovering and nurturing new talent while widening the reach in the fashion industry by fostering the growth of the continent’s most promising up-and-coming designers. AFC’s Judges include: Kaname Murakami (Chief Jury Member, Editor-in-Chief of WWD JAPAN), Ren Osawa (Midwest Buyer), Yoshiro Kawasaki (CEO of Aout Inc. (LITMUS)), Shinpei Goto (MASU Designer), Jeong Kyung-Eun (Buyer of YOUTH team at Hyundai Department Store), Keitaro Nagasaka (Sakas Co., Ltd. Representative Director PR Director), Kohei Hashimoto (Buyer, Isetan Mitsukoshi Re-Style Co., Ltd.), Tomoyuki Hibino (Buyer at GARAGE D.EDIT, Hankyu Men’s Tokyo), Fumiya Yoshinouchi (FASHIONSNAP.COM Editorial Committee Member/ Director), and Hiroshi Watanabe (CEO of Newstaa Inc. Incubator) https://asiafashioncollection.com/

About Vantan

Founded in 1965 with the vision of “creating the world’s closest school to society,” VANTAN fosters human resources which can be immediately applicable through “practical education”, such as classes taught by active instructors, long-term internships, and industry-academia cooperative projects in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. The institution has developed educational programs in the fields of Fashion, Hair Styling, Makeup, Beauty, Graphic Design, Film, Photography, Game Design, Animation, Patisserie, Cafe management, Programming, Creating in the Entertainment field, Influencing, and Producing. VANTAN has produced approximately 200,000 graduates to date. Notable alumni include: Kunihiko Morinaga (Designer/Owner, 2019 LVMH finalist ANREALAGE), Kanako Takase (Makeup Artist), and Daiki Suzuki (Owner/Designer, Engineered Garments) https://www.vantan.jp

About PARCO CO.,LTD.

Since the establishment of Ikebukuro PARCO in 1969, its mission has been to cultivate and showcase culture in all forms. While the company’s core DNA is Fashion, it has extended across numerous categories to include Music, Visual Arts, and Theater, while bringing a splash of color to consumer culture as a whole. These initiatives have established PARCO as a leader in creative workspaces, attracting an abundance of talent that amplifies a creative circle which continues to drive forward and pave the way for the next cultural movement. https://www.parco.co.jp ##

Negris LeBrum introduced its Fall/Winter 2025-26 collection via live stream, delivering a striking lineup that blends timeless sophistication with modern innovation. This season’s collection, a tribute to classic tailoring and bold expression, captures the brand’s signature fusion of elegance and heritage. The Fall/Winter 2025-26 collection showcases rich textures, structured silhouettes, and a deep, refined color palette, embodying the spirit of contemporary luxury. Luxurious wool, velvet, and cashmere pieces are juxtaposed with intricate detailing, offering a seamless transition from daywear to evening sophistication. Signature black-and-white motifs remain central, paying homage to Negris LeBrum’s brand identity while introducing fresh, avant-garde interpretations. Negris LeBrum Creative Director Travis Hamilton describes the collection as “a statement of confidence and refinement. This season is about embracing the power of style—classic yet progressive, rooted in history yet looking forward.” Negris LeBrum continues to redefine modern luxury by merging tradition with innovation, offering a collection that speaks to the sophisticated, style-conscious individual. ##