Project Runway’s Malan Breton’s Asian Inspired Fashion
Most of you might remember Malan Breton as a cast member on Bravo TV’s Project Runway 3. Born in Taipei, Taiwan, Malan is a self taught designer. He has also had careers as a model, professional photographer, voice-over artist, actor, dancer, singer, and most recently, a reality television star. Shannon Lin was behind the scenes at New York Fashion week and had this to say, along with a small interview with Malan Breton backstage.
I wish we had a little more time, but I think in a way his style of answering was to be brief and direct~ he was very assertive and jovial. The gowns were long and short; everything from silk with the colors azure, beige with Chinese style buttons.
The featured model who walked with him at the end had an off-white long silk Chinese style dress with traditional patterns and she carried an orchid which she threw at the camera.
She is the first Asian model in the photos backstage. The models’ eyes were all done the same way with distinct black eyeliner to accentuate ‘Asian eyes’ and the hair was blown out in a 40’s style. (It kind of looked 60-ish too)
I was able to ask Malan a few questions during the mayhem backstage.
ASIANCE: The looks you are showcasing today are inspired by your ancestors on holiday in French Indochina. When was this, and describe other inspiration for your collection?
Malan: Yes, it was based on old photos of my relatives on vacation in French Indochina. It was the 1940’s. I was inspired by the fabrics and silks that are so unique to the time period and the area.
ASIANCE: What, in your opinion, sets apart traditional Asian styles from all the rest?
Malan: The fabrics are so unique. Silk is the specialty. Its texture and beauty are wonderful to work with.
ASIANCE: Will your next travels inspire future designs?
Malan: Yes! I am going to Hollywood soon to do a movie project and then to Europe. I will get a lot of inspiration from overseas.
ASIANCE: Thank you very much and good luck with your other career endeavors.
Malan: Thank you! (he bowed lightly with both hands)
Shannon Lin is 22-years old and resides in New York City. She graduated in May 2007 from the New School with a degree in Media Studies. She is originally from Seattle, Washington and is bi-racial. Her father is from Taiwan and her mother is of Scandinavian descent, and raised in America. You can get in touch with Shannon through her MyAsiance page my.asiancemagazine.com/shannonlin
For more information on Malan Breton’s designs click here
www.malanbreton.com
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