WHEN ASIAN GANGSTER IMAGES ARE FULLY DEPICTED THROUGH FASHION

With his new collection, Hung La challenges traditional views of Asian men by incorporating culturally rich, contemporary, and provocative clothing. Speaking to Vogue Runway, Hung La says, “There is a lot of subtlety when it comes to masculinity in Asian culture. However, in the West, we tend to overly sexualize it, like the anti-social characters in the underworld, or make it overly fragile. But there’s much more to it: Shame, vulnerability, love.”

To showcase different facets of masculinity, Hung La’s third collection draws inspiration from fictional characters such as robbers, detectives, and motorcycle gang members, akin to real-life actor Yusaka Matsuda in the 1980s Japanese show “Detective Story.” All these contribute distinctive highlights to the collection: floor-length trousers, eggshell and black trench coats, oversized blazers, mohair-patterned sweaters, comfortable dress shirts, button-fly jeans, and more.

The primary design material in the collection is black leather, present throughout outer coats, blazers, leather jackets, and trousers, creating a bold focal point. Other styles in the collection include motorcycle gear and sportswear. To add another layer of appeal to these garments, graphic sensory designs are incorporated with vibrant colors like gold, red, and green. It’s evident that the portrayal of Asian gangster images in Hung La’s collection is both intriguing and unique.

Growing up in traditional households, Asian American children essentially had three career choices: lawyer, doctor, or engineer. However, Hung La diverged from the ideal Asian child path and paved his way with bold and distinctive fashion designs. Now, he expands into the realm of men’s clothing with his brand LỰU ĐẠN.

“Men’s fashion in Asia doesn’t have many representatives, so I want to highlight those stories.” – Hung La once shared. And now, he is gradually achieving just that.

From: kaishirts.com