There’s no Berlin Fashion Week without William Fan. But while in recent seasons he has increasingly outdone himself with ever larger shows and even more spectacular locations (Olympic Stadium, a subway tunnel, a television tower), this year’s setting was relatively small. Over croissants and coffee, the designer served not only his new collection but also his first fine jewelry in the gallery of the hotel Chateau Royal.
Jewelry needs proximity. It would have been completely lost on a classic runway,” Fan said as he explained the concept behind the design to guests. As the child of two gastronomes, Fan enjoyed Asian cuisine in his childhood. Here, rice grains, chopsticks, and bowls served as blueprints for bracelets, rings, and other jewelry made of silver and pure gold.
All around, on models and clothes rails, his new textile creations were also put under the microscope. Following on from his Off Duty collection for fall, On Duty was this season’s theme. The idea was to create workwear that doesn’t play on the usual workwear aesthetic, but still has all the advantages that are necessary for everyday life. Fan’s designs have always been flowing and in no way constricting. But the coming summer pieces are so roomy, his customers may even want to cycle to the office in them.
Pleated knitwear ensures comfort, while high collars and layering provide the necessary insulation. Shirts are turned inside-out, polos are worn over coats, and lapels are turned up. Everything looks as if you got dressed in a hurry, took a quick look, and decided to wear your look with pride. This attitude runs through all the knitwear, coats, and tailored looks; despite significantly less pomp and glitter, this collection looks just as enjoyable as the ones before.
