William Fan
About the Collection
With his 10th anniversary collection “ALTER EGO”, designer William Fan celebrates not only the milestone of his eponymous label but also the roles we play in the course of our lives. Inspired by traditional Peking Opera, an art form known for its drama, elegance, and multi-faceted characters, Fan has created a collection that balances personal reflection with cultural depth. “‘ALTER EGO”’ reflects a cross-section of 19 past collections and is a dialogue between workwear and elegance, between Chinese tradition and Western modernity. Familiar silhouettes and characteristic details from the past ten years are reinterpreted, rethought, and skilfully combined. The collection presents a multi-faceted spectrum of draped scarves with flounces that embody movement and drama, as well as traditional embroidered waistcoats reminiscent of Peking Opera costumes. Denim looks with elaborate cheongsam knots symbolise the fusion of East and West, past and present. Together with detailed denim trousers, a modern interpretation of classic workwear is created. The new accessories are a particular highlight of the anniversary collection. Beaded bags are characterised by their timelessness, while the new sunglasses symbolise the futuristic look of the label in the years to come. New leather bags and shoe styles add a perfect finishing touch. Textures such as 3D pleats, fine corduroy elements and silver brooches provide additional depth and a special feel.
All images are available at the official Berlin Fashion Week MEDIA HUB.
ABOUT THE BRAND
The Berlin-based label WILLIAM FAN was established in 2015. The eponymous designer who grew up in Germany with Asian roots fuses European elements with Chinese influences and thus creates a harmonious union between these cultures. The designs represent a timeless and progressive approach which does not rely on gender and age. Yet he allows significant public insights by telling his vision of eliminating the classical use of labels in the form of stories within the fashion shows.
What non-fashion related sources or experiences have influenced your current collection?
For the collection, we looked at typical role models from the film and television industry. The same personas that have existed for centuries are reused again and again. We also likely fall into such roles from time to time to fulfill imposed images. The opera had already conveyed the first ideas of this earlier. Culturally, there are many different interpretations of this. The Peking Opera especially, is a great inspiration for me in its colourfulness and drama for the collection.
