Who is Robert Wun? If you haven’t heard his name, you’ve certainly seen his work. Born in Hong Kong and now based in London, Robert Wun is a designer who has certainly made a name for himself in the world of haute couture with his statement pieces. The designer celebrated the 10th anniversary of his eponymous brand with a show that felt like a love letter to his hometown. Returning for a triumphant homecoming at the Hong Kong Palace Museum, Wun’s latest collection was a mesmerising fusion of personal memories, cultural references, and pure, unfiltered artistry.
The fashion world expected a spectacle, but Wun delivered so much more. Each piece was a visual story, weaving together the threads of his childhood, his family’s legacy, and his creative evolution.
Goddess inspirations and the multi-armed gowns
Wun’s newest collection featured capes and gowns with multi-arm silhouettes, a direct nod to Guan Yin, the goddess of mercy often depicted with thousands of arms and eyes. These designs, flowing with grace and power, seemed to echo the strength and resilience Wun has found in his journey. With each step down the runway, the models transformed into modern-day goddesses, standing on metaphorical lotus petals, much like Guan Yin herself.
A grandmother’s embrace
One of the show’s most poignant moments was the unveiling of a deep blue gown adorned with sculptural arms cradling a baby. This design was a touching tribute to Wun’s grandmother, who died from COVID-19 in 2021. The gown captured the essence of a grandmother’s embrace—tender, strong, and eternal. It served as a visual metaphor for love that transcends time, a nod to the woman who shaped Wun’s life in many ways.
Reimagining the “bloody bride”
Of course, the “bloody bride” was back, this time with a stunning twist. Originally inspired by his sister’s surgery, Wun reworked the concept to embody beauty and art. This season’s interpretation saw blood-red tones blended with ethereal whites, creating a stark yet delicate contrast that mesmerised the audience. The dress seemed to dance between vulnerability and strength, pain and elegance—a masterpiece that only Wun could conjure.
The thrifting roots and reimagined “grandma shirts”
For Wun, fashion has always been a blend of past and present, which is evident in his use of custom rose prints and jacquards. A homage to his early days of thrifting in Hong Kong, the prints brought to life the nostalgic “grandma shirts” locals know so well. But Wun, ever the innovator, transformed these patterns into his signature pleated dresses, making them look familiar and very new. It was a playful nod to his roots and a reminder that great fashion often begins in the most unexpected places.
Met Gala revivals and Hong Kong icons
Wun also brought back some fan favourites for those who didn’t see his Paris show. The rainbow splatter-burned look. Turned heads on Wisdom Kaye at the Met Gala, made a dramatic reappearance, as did a snow-covered embroidered full coat, umbrella, and gloves. But the wispy polka dot gown truly stole the spotlight, a clear homage to the iconic Hong Kong diva Paula Tsui, who famously wore countless variations of that print throughout her career. The gown flowed like a whisper, enchanting and full of life, much like Tsui herself.
Umbrellas in the air: A nod to protest and perseverance
Wun didn’t shy away from making political statements either. The umbrellas featured in the show were a subtle yet powerful nod to Hong Kong’s Umbrella Revolution, adding a layer of meaning to an already emotionally charged event. It was a reminder of the city’s ongoing struggle, resilience, and fight for identity—much like Wun’s journey in the fashion world.
The grand finale: A skirt suit to remember
Wun closed the show with a striking black jacket skirt suit, a tailoring and modern design masterclass. It was a look that captured the essence of his brand: sophisticated, daring, and always a step ahead. The audience erupted in applause, celebrating a decade of the designer’s groundbreaking fashion.
Full circle and a bright future
As the lights dimmed and the crowd cheered, Wun’s homecoming felt like a full circle. It was more than a celebration of ten years; it was a reflection of a designer who has remained true to his roots while embracing the world stage. From his humble beginnings in Hong Kong to his historic showing at Paris Couture Week, Wun has always drawn strength from the past to shape his future.
And if this collection is any indication, his journey is just getting started. Fashion insiders and fans alike left the Hong Kong Palace Museum with a sense of wonder, eagerly anticipating what the next decade will bring from this unstoppable force in fashion. Robert Wun has come home, and the world is watching.
