Robert Wun reflects on the inspirations behind his collections, and how he’s exploring his heritage beyond what’s expected of the people around him
There’s a sense of independence about Robert Wun. His words are matter-of-fact, precise, unafraid. These adjectives reflect the character of his eponymous brand––sculptural silhouettes masterfully rendered with a sense of elegance, Wun presents a new kind of womenswear that doesn’t need masculine elements to present authority, nor fragility to emphasise the femininity of his clothes.
Wun’s rejection of stereotyping has also led to a unique perspective of his East Asian heritage through his collections––one which many may not be so quick to accept. As a Hong Kong designer based in London, Wun is no stranger to the discriminatory stereotypes imposed on him and his brand. Though it is an issue larger than simply one collection or designer, Wun's silent protest through his collections has made him one to watch especially in recent years.
We spoke to Wun on his personal experiences in London, how he's integrating his heritage into his designs in a new manner, and how he hopes to give back to his community in Hong Kong in the future.
How has your upbringing influenced the way you approach fashion?
My approach to fashion is always based on a celebration of feminism, futurism and escapism with a political approach.
Growing up both in Hong Kong and London has taught me the importance of embracing my heritage and to always stay humble and learn different perspective and cultures around the world. Dismantling systematic racism in the fashion industry, rejecting stereotypes, and challenging the standard of beauty based on colourism... these are definitely one of my aims as a brand and as a designer.
My family also taught me feminism. My grandmother brought my father to Hong Kong by herself during the post-civil war period, not knowing how to speak a word of the native language, and managed to raise my father as a single mother by mending clothes, making plastic flowers and sewing shoes. I'm also in awe of my mother's work ethic, who has been working and studying since she was 12 – she was pursuing a Master's Degree by the time I was 15.