It is a collection that reads like an open book. A novel in which I am the main character, and whose scenes take place in Paris, my adopted city for 9 years, depicted in all its shades of grey, from slate to taupe, through the pearl. These are the hues that dominate my daily wardrobe, tinting my every activity with romanticism and cheerfulness.
This collection is marked by interchangeable tailored pieces (coats, jackets, and cropped pea coats) in wool, occasionally mixed with a shiny and waterproof technological fabric for a subtle blend of tradition and modernity. With their broad shoulders and rock references, the silhouettes may be reminiscent of the 80s, but Kuanwang is firmly rooted in our era : streetwear and couture combine, and the boundaries between genres are blurred.
Primarily grab, black or white, the pieces are pure and graphic, yet deceptively simple. A coat is reduced to its collar and bias-cut bib front, thus morphing into an elongated waistcoat that can be worn as you wish, like an accessory. Double shoulder pads add volume and structure to the raglan sleeves of an asymmetric grey coat. The hoods of the hoodies tighten both at the front and at the back. Pockets are hidden behind secret entrances. A double-pant effect is obtained on two-tone, laced-up styles.
If the outts are monochrome, protuberances representing kissing lips invade the hoodies. One symbol adorns this wardrobe: thorns, which, in Chinese culture, symbolize dificulties, but also the courage to overcome them – they also nod to the initials of the brand “WK”.
It is therefore a message of optimism that this contemporary fable conveys. When I talk about my own Parisian wardrobe, I actually want to talk about your wardrobe. Taste the pleasure of wearing a superbly executed piece, chosen out of love, without caring about wearability or decorum.
Kuanwang has marked its fashion territory thanks to intricately cut, minimalist collections. The now-eponymous brand promotes, besides its statutory values, total fashion freedom. On the back of a black and shiny oversize blazer is inscribed a phrase that could actually serve as an epilogue to this new collection: “Preference is more important than suitability ”
Photographer: Christina V Henningstad @christina_henningstad
KUANWANG Instagram: @kuanwangofficial
Publicimagepr: @publicimagepr
