New York City is a melting pot of culture, creativity, and style. In this world of glamor, Elton Ilirjani, a social media sensation, fashion influencer, and LGBTQIA+ activist, has made his mark with his bold fashion statements and dedication to equality. Elton’s recent appearance at the Sarabande Foundation party, wearing an eye-catching ensemble by South Korean designer Seokwoon Yoon, was no exception.
The Sarabande Foundation, established in memory of the late British fashion icon Lee Alexander McQueen, hosted an event on May 2 at The Standard, High Line. The foundation gathered artists, designers, and creative minds from all walks of life, with attendees such as renowned fashion designer Thom Browne (pictured above with Elton Ilirjani), Daniel Roseberry, Ian Malone, and more.
Guests were treated to two artistic experiences by Sarabande artists Andrew Davis and Rosie Gibbens while mingling in The Plaza. The foundation supports hundreds of artists through scholarships and subsidized studio spaces in the UK, with plans to expand the program to the US. The event was a crucial step in achieving this goal, as director Trino Verkade explained.
One of the event’s highlights was the display of Warp and Weft by Sarabande menswear designer Andrew Davis, which featured life-size figures crafted from Scotch Tape. The unique art piece will remain on public display at The Standard, High Line, until Frieze New York concludes on May 21.
Elton Ilirjani, originally from Albania, has built a successful career as the founder and director of The HeadHunter Group, which has a presence in over 15 countries. As an activist, Elton has spearheaded campaigns for LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, such as the “Lipstick Movement” and the “Nobody is Straight” movement. A world-renowned genderless model known for his eclectic style and charismatic presence in the New York scene, Elton has walked for several internationally acclaimed fashion brands, including BESFXXK and at Seoul Fashion Week 2023.
At the Sarabande Foundation party, Elton donned a stunning outfit by Seokwoon Yoon, an up-and-coming South Korean designer known for his bold colors, precision, and genderless style. Elton expressed his happiness to support independent fashion designers from Asia, who often go overlooked in the West, describing Seokwoon Yoon as a “true talent in fashion today.”
Seokwoon Yoon was born in South Korea and moved to New York City in 2013 to pursue his passion for fashion. He studied menswear tailoring and fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology before enrolling in Pratt Institute’s fashion design BFA program. Yoon finds inspiration in the people and environment around him, which is evident in his striking designs. He has been featured as a “Black Sheep” designer by Not Just A Label and has had his work published in fashion magazines such as Openlab, Wad, Jute, and Noctis.
As the fashion world continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the talented, innovative designers and models who shape the industry. Elton Ilirjani’s appearance in Seokwoon Yoon’s creation at the Sarabande Foundation party is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and inclusivity. Both Elton and Seokwoon Yoon have proven that fashion is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and identities, paving the way for a brighter and more diverse future in the world of high fashion.
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