Ashlyn So: SS24
Photo Courtesy of Ashlyn So
In the heart of the fashion capital, New York City, a 15-year-old fashion designer and accidental activist, Ashlyn So, has once again captivated the city’s most fashionable crowd with a collection that goes beyond aesthetics. Her latest show, “Unseen,” showcased not only her unique creative vision but also provided an immersive experience that delved into the depths of mental health and societal stigma.
Ashlyn So has earned her place as one of the youngest fashion designers ever to grace the New York Fashion Week runway. “Unseen” is not just a collection of gorgeous organzas and chrome reflective fabrics in fantastical silhouettes; it’s a poignant representation of Ashlyn’s personal journey to heal her mental health while carrying the weight of ancestral traumas.
“Let’s create a world where no one feels invisible…I want to encourage everyone to break the silence on mental health stigma within the Asian community. Many of us go unnoticed and unheard, but together, we can change that narrative,” Ashlyn shared.
The runway show opened with an array of ethereal, sheer looks, creating the illusion of disappearing into the surroundings. This represented the overwhelming feeling of being lost and isolated that Ashlyn had experienced. As the show progressed, the garments grew stronger and bolder, mirroring the designer’s own journey of finding strength within herself to rise above her darkness. Each piece exuded a youthful and fresh vibe, pairing formal elements with sneakers. The show’s grand finale featured a stunning giant puffer vest symbolizing a phoenix rising above the ashes of her former self, leaving the audience with the feeling that anything is possible.
Ashlyn is more than just a fashion designer; she is an agent of change, and she’s calling on the fashion world to join her on this transformative journey. Fashion has the power to unite individuals in driving positive societal change that goes beyond aesthetics. She is dedicated to amplifying voices often marginalized, supporting small businesses, fostering representation, and creating a collective tapestry of visibility and empowerment. Her forward-looking designs symbolize ongoing progress, reflection, and an unwavering commitment to a more just and equitable world. She believes that fashion is a universal tool for transformation, empowering everyone to effect change by wearing their values proudly and boldly.
Notable guests in attendance included Jarry Lee and Skyelar Chase, others included Paige Taylor, Asia Monet, and Laya de Leon Hayes. The music for the show featured a cello played by SUUVI and music composed by Paul Leonard-Morgan and Camille Saint-Saëns + Pedro Osuna. Sponsors included Nike, Blume, New York Makeup Academy, and UNITE.
Ashlyn has showcased her collections at both New York Fashion Week and Paris Fashion Week. Her line includes made-to-order formalwear, wedding gowns, and custom dresses for women, characterized by avant-garde and out-of-this-world designs. Ashlyn gained recognition not only for her fashion but also for her activism. In 2021, she started rallies and spoke against racism and hate, merging her fashion and activism to give people an identity and a voice. Her work has been featured in Teen Vogue, Seventeen Magazine, PopSugar, and various news channels in the US, Asia, and France. She even appeared on The Ellen Show with Tiffany Haddish. Ashlyn continues to create change and make positive impacts on both youth and adults through her generosity, love, and kindness, including donating her custom design services to non-profit organizations.
Her journey through fashion and activism is a testament to her unwavering commitment to promoting unity, breaking the silence on mental health stigma, and creating a more inclusive world. You can follow her journey and explore her designs on her Instagram account @ashlynso_ and her website ashlynso.com.
Photo Courtesy of Ashlyn So
Photo Courtesy of Ashlyn So
Photo Courtesy of Ashlyn So
Photo Courtesy of Ashlyn So