China Institute’s Young Associates Present Night of Fashion: Then and Now

Last Wednesday, October 20th, the China Institute’s Young Associates (a non-profit cultural and educational organization) presented a Night of Fashion: Then and Now at CUE Art Foundation in New York. The benefit showcased the cultural evolution of Asian fashion from ancient Chinese dress to the contemporary styles of rising Asian-American designers Ann Yee, Arbitrage, Cody Sai and Janet Zheng (hair & makeup courtesy of The Temple – A Paul Mitchell Partner School), along with an innovative jewelry showcase from ken + dana design. Guests enjoyed the evening of fashion, culture, and cocktails while sipping on beverages courtesy of Christiania Vodka, Chang Beer, Mekhong: The Spirit of Thailand, Fresh Ginger, Ginger Ale, and Icelandic Glacial Water, with munchies courtesy of PopChips (at every hot fashion event in the city).

It was really cool to see the menswear line Arbitrage (a favorite of Adrien Grenier of HBO’s Entourage) being shown at the event. Arbitrage specializes in shirts, ties and cufflinks and work closely with factories overseas and in New York City.

Above and below: Models on the runway wearing clothes by Arbitrage which boasts that each dress shirt is held together by over 5,500 stitches, has sturdy, chip-proof buttons sew on. From factory to clothing rack, it takes 25 people working in synergy together to make the garment.

My favorite designer of the night had to have been menswear designer, Janet Zheng. Zheng's menswear is refined, avant-garde, and directional. She believes that clothing should be a statement and that it should be an object of desire (I love that and I totally agree Janet)! I loved Zheng's jackets that she showed from her Fall/Winter collection. I actually told my friend that I wanted to wear one asap. I also think it is interesting for a woman to exclusively do menswear. Damn it, Janet, I love you.

Above: Loving this look and loving the way the jacket is designed and how it hangs in the back. Below: I thought this was a great jacket and look as well. I am obsessed with jackets and coats!


Congrats to CIYA for a successful event. I had a great time and discovered some amazing new designers. Special thanks to my friend Lauren Rich of Rich PR for letting me know all about CIYA and producing a great event.

*Photo Credit- All photos taken by Ashley DuPree.