For Love by Robert Wun
Robert Wun Spring 2024 Haute Couture Show (detail). Courtesy of Robert Wun.
Robert Wun’s Spring/Summer 2024 Couture Collection celebrated two significant milestones: it was the brand’s second appearance at any Paris show and marked the 10th anniversary of its founding. Moreover, the show was a resounding success. If one word could describe this brand, it would be ‘majestic’ or perhaps ‘stunning.’
Who is Robert Wun?
He is a Hong Kong-born, London-based fashion designer who developed an interest in fashion at the age of 11. This passion was ignited by a chance encounter with an older girl at his family’s church, who was studying fashion design. This encounter led him to explore thrift shopping and customizing his own clothes, Wun told British Vogue. After graduating from the London College of Fashion, Wun began freelancing while simultaneously creating his first collection in his bedroom. Two years later, he and his sister collaborated to establish the brand that now bears his name. Wun’s womenswear collections focus on female empowerment and are renowned for their innovative, avant-garde designs that celebrate the female form. Describing his brand’s aesthetics, he stated, “It’s a celebration of feminism and femininity, which doesn’t mean it’s only for women, either. Interestingly, [the woman] hasn’t changed that much – it’s still that crazy bitch living in another dimension who’s powerful, controversial, and owns every room.” Despite not residing in Hong Kong, Wun draws inspiration from his heritage in his work, incorporating nods to his roots. His designs have been worn by notable figures such as Björk, Solange, Lady Gaga, Cardi B, and Céline Dion.
Robert Wun for Tatler Asia. Photography by Rosie Harriet Ellis.
Time and time again, Wun has demonstrated his ability to make a bold statement through his work, solidifying his brand as a standout during the Paris shows. Titled For Love, the collection celebrated its anniversary by presenting a retrospective of confident reinterpretations of familiar silhouettes. Explaining the inspiration behind the collection, Wun stated, “After a life-changing year since our first show in 2023, we have gone through an incredible growth journey. I started to realize the very substance that keeps me going and to carry on the challenge is something rather simple yet gravitating. The Love I have for my family and friends, scenes from my favorite movies which inspire me deeply, and the memories of those I miss. I wanted to create a collection born from honesty and braveness, embracing my imagination. To create a universe where horror can be graceful, flaws are inevitable beauty, grief is a reflection of the Love we had, and memories can be transformed through creation, manifested into something powerful and emotional.”
This collection appears to be a reflection on passions, beginning with an exploration of how we perceive love, the love in our pursuits, and the love that transcends romance. Drawing inspiration from Wun’s favorite films, particularly horror movies, the collection showcased a moody surrealist aesthetic. Wun’s appreciation for certain horror genres, which he finds more poetic than terrifying, significantly influenced the collection’s silhouettes and themes.
The show opened with a model draped in a black coat and wide-brimmed hat adorned with Wun’s signature raindrop crystals, setting a dramatic tone from the start. As the show continued, the atmosphere intensified with each look. A flame-patterned ash-colored tulle gown paired with a felt hat embellished with burn holes made a striking statement, while glass-encrusted dresses and sharply edged headpieces added to the theatricality. Even the bridal ensemble featured crystal embroidery mimicking fresh blood stains, sparing no detail in its eerie allure.
Opening look, Lovers in the Rain. Paris Couture Week Spring 2024. Courtesy of Robert Wun.
Wun’s expertise in draping and beading was evident in pieces like a one-shoulder rosy beige silk gown and an electric blue creation adorned with dramatic ruffles. Face coverings added a haunting touch to some looks, while a coat adorned with jagged glass paid homage to Trinity from The Matrix, symbolizing sacrifice for love. Structured satin designs, reminiscent of armor, drew inspiration from the designer’s grandmother’s passing, infusing the collection with personal and emotional depth.
The finale, once again an ode to the homage to the horror genre, with a human-shaped appendage unfastening a blood-red gown, creating a chilling yet captivating visual. Concluding the show was a dramatic red bustier gown featuring a matching mannequin emerging from the waist, symbolizing the weight of the subconscious and leaving a lasting impression of haunting beauty.
Reflecting on his recent success in Paris, Wun shared, “It’s always a bit overwhelming, hearing the crowds clap... a surreal feeling that I guess I won’t ever get used to.” The brand’s post-show momentum was evident, with an additional 50,000 Instagram followers bringing the count close to the half-million mark, further solidifying their presence on the runway. At just 32 years old, Robert Wun has emerged as perhaps couture’s most exhilarating independent challenger.
Each couture piece was truly breathtaking, with Wun’s craftsmanship exceeding words. The sheer artistry and detail in each creation were beyond description, leaving a lasting impression that mere words cannot fully capture. I strongly suggest exploring Wun’s remarkable portfolio and collections, all of which are available on his website.
