NEW YORK, NY
New York Fashion Week opened in dazzling style, as Gallery Chang transformed into a sanctuary of creativity, refinement, and glamour. The star-studded fashion extravaganza, produced by Andrew Cristi and Maria Soldier, brought together the worlds of high fashion, fine art, and masterful craftsmanship, setting the stage for a week defined by artistry and innovation.
At the heart of the celebration stood Alex Soldier, the master jeweler and sculptor whose creations, meticulously handcrafted in New York City, transcend adornment to become wearable works of art. Each piece shimmered like a talisman, its intricate detail and transformative beauty drawing the audience into a dialogue between sculpture, light, and emotion. Soldier’s artistry formed the foundation of a showcase that honored not only design excellence but also the spirit of creative synergy. “It is collaborations like these that define the dynamic, ever-evolving landscape of fashion, demonstrating the boundless possibilities that arise when diverse forms of artistic expression converge,” shared Maria Soldier, who represented her family’s brand while co-producing the event with her longtime friend and creative partner, celebrity stylist Andrew Cristi.
The runway and presentations unveiled the brilliance of New York–based designers: Alex Teih with his timeless silhouettes, Ali Taghavi with his precision tailoring and modern elegance, Club Lapel redefining menswear with bold individuality, and equalshuman, the forward-thinking collective championing inclusivity and avant-garde design. Together, they painted a portrait of the city’s vibrant creative landscape.
The guest list unfolded like a modern-day almanac of culture and society. Among those in attendance was royalty itself, Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, whose presence imbued the afternoon with regal distinction. The star power continued with Susan Heyward, acclaimed for her role in Orange Is the New Black; Nolé Marin, the renowned fashion authority and America’s Next Top Model judge; and internationally celebrated pianist Olga Kern. Actor Doug E. Doug joined the ranks, alongside Julian Sewell, Glenn Morizio, Brett Landin, Dawn Anna Williamson, Oksana Lada, Ruby Wolf, Luca Bella Facinelli, Jessie Jolles, Lauren Hope Krass, and an array of other luminaries. Together, they transformed the gathering into an affair as enchanting in celebrity as it was in style.
As guests indulged in artisanal desserts by GoGo Jang Café paired with sparkling bubbles, the atmosphere shimmered with warmth, elegance, and anticipation. Conversations flowed as easily as champagne, and the air buzzed with admiration for the artistry on display.
In every detail, from the handcrafted jewelry to the avant-garde fashion, the afternoon at Gallery Chang embodied the true spirit of New York Fashion Week: a celebration of beauty, innovation, and the creative forces that continue to shape the world of style.