Andy & Debb bring subtle palette to menswear
Andy & Debb launched their new collection, including their first line of menswear, inspired by the paintings of Mark Rothko, at Seoul Fashion Week. Provided by the Seoul Fashion Center
Not only is this the first foray into menswear for the label, it’s also the first time Kim has put only his name on a line of clothing without his wife, Wonjeong Debbie Yoon.
Seokwon Andy Kim
This season sees a continuation of Kim’s interpretations of Rothko. Very subtle colors lend contrast to a strong streak of red, with stylish loafers serving as another staple.
“We tried to keep to the basic philosophy of Andy & Debb designs, which is romantic minimalism,” said Yoon. “Our clothes may look plain from far away, but like fine paintings, you will note the intricate details when you view them at close range.”
The couple said the most difficult part of this collection was getting used to the unfamiliar patterns that menswear requires, and this was partly the reason Kim, who understands the male physique better, took the reins.
“Our understanding as husband and wife and respect for each other as designers help us not get into petty fights,” Yoon said. “Without that, the kind of collaboration we have would be impossible.”
The men’s collection is not the only reason Kim is in the spotlight; he’s also in the public eye as a judge on the reality show “Project Runway Korea,” which ran from February to April this year. The Korean version is a spinoff of the original, in which renowned supermodel Heidi Klum scouts talented designers from all over America.
“I saw raw potential from the young designers of Korea,” said Kim. “Their ideas, passion and craving to make beautiful clothes are no less than any world-class designer.”
Andy & Debb are now in New York to prepare for the 2010 F/W New York Collection. They will participate in a special fashion show to promote Korean fashion with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, held at the New York Public Library in February 2010, along with five other Korean designers.
By Hannah Kim Contributing writer [estyle@joongang.co.kr]
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
To write comments, please log in to one of the accounts.
Standards Board Policy (0/250자)