Designers Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia of New York-based brand Monse on how fashion can survive Covid-19
- The duo behind experimental label Monse met while working at Oscar de la Renta, where the pair are now creative directors
- They discuss their power as a pair, how they have adapted during the pandemic and the future of the fashion industry
It’s smack bang in the middle of what should be New York Fashion Week when I find myself enjoying a leisurely Zoom call with Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, founders of fashion label Monse and creative directors at Oscar de la Renta. Traditionally, fashion week is the most gruelling time of the year for designers, but, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, this is no longer the case.
“Some people would hate the fact that we are locked down and have to spend more time at home, but we are basically living in Laura’s idea of euphoria,” jokes Garcia, before Kim chimes in defensively.
“Hey, I do miss fashion week,” she protests. “OK, I’ll admit it – I am antisocial and love the fact I don’t have to go anywhere. It also means I have more time to cook.”
Kim’s social media feed may feature more images of her artful food creations than fashion currently, but that does not mean either she or Garcia are in less demand.
Since they launched Monse, in 2015, the brand has made headlines thanks to its fresh take on easy elegance – think deconstructed menswear-inspired shirting, asymmetrical cuts and sexy knitwear. Hailed by industry insiders as the “new Celine”, it is a cult favourite with the fashion and celebrity set. Kerry Washington, Amal Clooney, Kate Hudson, Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift have all worn Monse.
