Back in the NY NOW Summer Market aisles, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of booths and displays. But sometimes, the most intriguing stories are hidden in plain sight. I nearly walked past Jeff Wan’s understated booth until a leather bag, ingeniously crafted to resemble a Chinese takeout container, stopped me in my tracks.
As a Queens native with a penchant for all things quintessentially New York, I couldn’t resist approaching. I discovered a clever accessory and a story of ambition, corporate success, and entrepreneurial spirit—all embodied in the designer standing before me.
Tune in to Discover the Stories Behind the Brands
Jeff’s Interview Starts at the 07:11 Mark
From Mauritius to Manhattan: Jeff Wan’s Journey
Jeff Wan, originally from Mauritius, an island nation near Madagascar, came to New York for college, attending the Pratt Institute for Industrial Design. His journey from intern at fashion powerhouses like DKNY and Diesel to designer at Coach and Michael Kors is a testament to the city’s ability to nurture talent from across the globe.
“After working in corporate for about six years, I decided to start my own line,” Wan explained, enthusiasm evident in his voice as he recounted his transition from established brands to his self-named venture.
The Lunch Box 11: A New York Icon Reimagined
The star of Wan’s collection that first caught my eye is the “Lunch Box 11″—a handbag inspired by the iconic Chinese takeout container. “The Chinese takeout box is quintessential New York,” Wan explained, capturing a shared experience familiar to every city dweller. This clever design has already garnered three awards, two in New York and one in Italy, proving that Wan’s vision extends far beyond the five boroughs.
Navigating the Fashion Industry: From Corporate to Entrepreneur
But Wan’s story isn’t just about fashion—it’s about the New York hustle. Pre-COVID, his designs graced the shelves of Saks and Macy’s and even made appearances on QVC. As it did for many, the pandemic forced a pivot to a direct-to-consumer model. Now, Wan is focused on re-establishing his presence in the market, armed with designs that capture the essence of New York life.
Wan’s answer is simple yet profound when asked about his inspiration: “I’m usually inspired by the lifestyle in New York, something that’s simple but at the same time iconic.” From brunches with friends to nights out at drag shows, Wan’s New York is vibrant, diverse, and always on the move—much like his designs.
Lessons from the New York Hustle
Wan offers sage advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: “Definitely start in corporate. You learn a lot of processes, make contacts… it’s basically learning the process that will help you in the future.” He emphasizes the importance of financial stability before taking the leap into full-time entrepreneurship, a reminder of the practical considerations that often underscore creative pursuits.
Wan left me with one final piece of wisdom as our conversation began to wind down: “Don’t burn any bridges, even if you hate your job.” This is a testament to his pragmatic approach to business and life—an approach that has served him well in his journey from corporate designer to independent creator.
In a city teeming with stories, Jeff Wan’s stands out as a reminder of what makes New York unique: the ability to take something as commonplace as a takeout container and transform it into a piece of high fashion. This alchemy of the ordinary into the extraordinary keeps the city’s creative pulse beating, one designer, one idea at a time.
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Visit https://www.jeffwan.com or Follow @jeffwanofficial on Instagram
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