Runway Redux

Andrew Kwon Looks to the Northern Lights and Old Hollywood Glamour

For his New York Fashion Week debut, rising star Andrew Kwon showed demi-couture evening wear inspired by the transformative power of light across time and place. Silhouettes took inspiration from Old Hollywood’s megawatt red-carpet moments, while crystal-embellished opera gloves and gowns recalled twinkling cityscapes seen from an airplane window and opulent hues nodded to the kaleidoscopic colors of the Northern Lights.

Credit: Jason Crowley/BFA.

Name: Andrew Kwon

Instagram: @andrewkwon_official

Describe this collection in three words: Modern fairytale, cinematic.

Which look is your favorite? The plum gown with that plunging neckline and that hand drape, with the long bow: that one is what I see in the Northern Lights—it’s such a prominent color. There’s also something about that long train that gives it a very dramatic “aha” moment.

What was the inspiration? It’s just so opulent. A lot of people including my studio have been like, “Are you sure you want to do all of that?” The bow, and the bottom, which has a cut out of a crystal trim. When you look at it closer, it has all the elements of looking into the night sky, or looking out of an airplane at night.

Attend any parties or events? I started at MyTheresa. After that it was Acne, and then Saks. Before I was at Manolo, then Dion Lee. This was over a few days, all very different vibes. 

Why did you choose to show in New York instead of another fashion week? This is where I felt like I was the most comfortable with myself. It’s where I was honest with myself and my parents about who I am and what I love to do. This is a place where I’ve met so many people that really saw what I wanted to do—design—without judging me in any way. 

A sketch of Kwon's favorite look. Credit: The designer.
Runway and behind-the-scenes photography of Kwon's favorite look. Credit: Darian DiCianno/BFA (left); Jason Crowley/BFA (right).
Another of the designer's favorite looks. Credit: Darian DiCianno/BFA (left); Jason Crowley/BFA (right).
All Stories