Alexander King Chen: A Journey of Resilience

By Nita Kiem

A wave of emotions overcame designer Alexander King Chen last week as he debuted his latest collection “Where Am I?” at Asian New York Fashion Week. With roots from Taiwan, LA, and Paris, this current NYC resident has spent his recent years dedicated to humanitarian efforts after going through a journey of self-awareness and discovery.

From advocating for the ethical treatment of animals to creating 3 fashion films intertwining fashion, cinematography, and humanitarian issues, Chen’s passion is derived from pivotal moments that led him to reconnect with his purpose. “Why have I been so egocentric and so selfish?” These were questions Chen asked himself after his mother’s passing. Chen’s mother had spent her last few years dedicated to community service twice a week despite being sick for ten years of her life, on dialysis, and unable to walk. From that point on, Chen became conscious of his actions and how he could provide value to his now, reality.

With a runway show a week away from his mother’s passing, Chen continued to push forward to honor her. “The model started off melancholy.” and as the show progressed, a sun was shown rising from the LCD screen and the “clothes became more alive”. After catching the eyes of Hu Sheguang, Chen was invited to showcase his collection in Beijing to dedicate to all of the mothers there.

“Where Am I?” is an amalgamation of my dreams and reality. Each model represents an emotional, meaningful place in time for me, perhaps from when I was addicted to video games, the moment I was born, the society I see, or maybe even the future.” Chen’s newest collection is based on the last 5 years, and it epitomizes his growth as a person and his commitment to using his authentic voice.

Through resilience, hard work, a sea of emotions, and a great team alongside him, Chen has become an inspiring figure in the fashion realm.

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