With his label Rokh, London-based designer Rok Hwang has been under the radar since winning the LVMH prize last year. Everyone seemed to be waiting for his first ever show in Paris and the result did not disappoint. The former Céline designer showcased a perfectly thought-out collection that translated a distinctive style. Sure, we’ve seen a lot teen-inspired menswear over the years, but womenswear always seems to cater towards elegance, poise and a femme fatale attitude. Rok isn’t shy to say he prefers designing for an in-between woman, a bit like the one Britney Spears was referring to. Not a girl, not yet a woman, and unafraid of expressing her angst or taking style risks.

A bit rough around the edges, the woman walking down the runway conveyed a badass confidence from head to toe. Also notable were the super colorful prints, whether it be psychedelic swirls on a knitted skirt or paisley on an oversized shirt. A bit retro, the collection brought nods to the 80s and 90s, taking it back to when the designer was growing up in Austin, Texas. An elusive memory of dusty Southwest landscapes mixed with the stunning cinematic visions of Gus Van Sant and Larry Clark. Playful knitwear ponchos and sweaters, as well as flower print bodysuits recalled elements from a family home interior, from the kitsch wallpaper to the cozy handmade bed throws. Nostalgia mingles with futurism and you can’t help but think Hwang’s time at Louis Vuitton has left some inspiration marks. The shadow of Nicolas Ghesquière is not that far away, even though Rokh has its own personality and we can bet this label will go very far.

All photos by Guillaume Barrau.