Ximon Lee’s latest runway presentation in Shanghai certainly made a statement, with a friend joking that it was the only show in town where you could see some hot boys strutting their stuff. The venue for the show was the smoky Shanghai club Heim, which added to the edgy atmosphere of the event. Lee, a Chinese born Korean menswear designer based in Berlin, has been making waves in the fashion industry since launching his label in Brooklyn in 2014. His unique designs have earned him recognition, including being shortlisted for the 2015 LVMH Prize.
For this collection, Lee drew inspiration from the Japanese cult film “All About Lily Chou Chou” and explored themes of personal metamorphosis and the complexities of youth. The result was a collection that exuded a sense of endearing awkwardness, with cheeky and cool menswear styles that included micro shorts, one-shoulder draped tops, embellished tank tops, glossy shirting, and even satiny boxer shorts with a built-in jockstrap. The standout pieces were the novel button-downs, featuring unique details like dress shirt cuffs as short sleeves and knitted panels for full-length sleeves.
After the show, the party continued at the same location, with techno music blaring and the fashion crowd mingling. It was a chance to experience Lee’s brand of metropolitan, rave-ready sexiness in full force. Despite the challenges of the season, Lee felt proud to showcase his collection on the runway in Shanghai, as opposed to the usual lookbook or showroom presentations. His technical expertise was evident in the construction of the garments, which may appear barely-there but are expertly crafted.
Overall, Ximon Lee’s return to the runway in Shanghai was a success, showcasing his talent for pushing boundaries and creating unique menswear designs. The show was a celebration of youthful energy and individuality, with a touch of edgy sexiness that set it apart from the rest. It was a night to remember for the fashion crowd in Shanghai, and a reminder of Lee’s ability to captivate audiences with his bold and innovative creations.
