South by Andy South Launches at Ala Moana
- Photo by Visionari
Fans of Project Runway will no doubt remember Andy South from Season 8. As a finalist, the Honolulu designer’s sophisticated, Asian-inspired collection for Fall 2010 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week was judged a hit. Exactly one year later, at Neiman Marcus Ala Moana, South introduced his first collection, for Fall 2011. It was received with resounding success as Honolulu’s best-dressed women lined up to buy blouses, pants, vests and jackets from the 17-piece, contemporary collection. Even the models were trying and buying.
Photo by Visionari
“It’s an amazing feeling. Sometimes I forget how huge it is (to be in Neiman Marcus). I get so caught up in the work I forget what it means.” About his collection, Andy said, “It works globally because we’re not a resort line or strictly Hawaiian.” The international clientele at Ala Moana appreciates the quality, subtlety and sophistication of South by Andy South. The label says “Made in Hawaii.” South visited factories in Asia before deciding that, for consistency and quality control, he needed to manufacture in Hawaii. He works with sewing contractors for some elements of the collection and with independent seamstresses for others.
Photo by Visionari
Photo by Visionari
In a happy coincidence, South turned 25 the day after his launch and Neiman Marcus feted him with a house-made birthday cake.
Photo by Visionari
