Asian American Designers Shine at DNC
- Asian American designers dressed Michelle Obama and Ella Emhoff at the DNC.
- Their designs were highly praised and made a mark on the political scene.
- This showcases the talent and creativity of Asian American fashion designers.
At the Democratic National Convention this week, two Asian American designers gained significant attention for their contributions to the fashion of prominent figures. Michelle Obama captivated audiences with her striking dark blue, sleeveless suit during her speech, designed by MONSE, a luxury label based in New York City. Founded by Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, both former creative directors at Oscar de la Renta, MONSE has quickly made a name for itself in the fashion world. Kim, originally from Seoul, South Korea, drew inspiration from her grandmother, a textile manufacturer, before moving to New York to pursue her career. Following Obama’s impactful speech, MONSE took to Instagram to express their admiration, stating, “Michelle Obama embodies the MONSE woman in every way, exuding the strength and confidence that are at the core of our brand.” This acknowledgment highlights the brand's commitment to empowering women through fashion, particularly in a political context. In addition to Obama, Ella Emhoff, daughter of Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, also made waves with her pale blue and white gown, designed by Joe Ando-Hirsh, a 28-year-old TikTok sensation known as “the dress guy.” Leading up to the event, Ando-Hirsh teased the design on social media, building anticipation for its reveal. When Emhoff appeared on stage, he celebrated the moment, sharing a video of his creation showcased nationally. Emhoff’s unique style, including a flower she crocheted herself, resonated with Gen Z viewers, further solidifying her status as a fashion icon. The event underscored the growing influence of Asian American designers in the political arena.