BY JAY AQUINO

SEPTEMBER 6, 2023

Fashion mavens transform into a new character whenever they are in fashion week, bearing an indescribable grace that young fashion boys and girls would dream of having when they grow up. Kevin Wang is one of those mavens who transforms from an everyday dad to a fashion week star who mastered mixing avant-garde fashion with street style aesthetics. It’s been almost three years since I discovered Wang on Instagram. I vividly remember that moment: he was wearing a top from Necessity Sense that immediately caught my eye. I instantly followed him and sent a compliment, never expecting a response. To my surprise, Wang replied, making that moment even more memorable.

Wang earned his fine arts degree in communication design at the School Of Visual Arts in New York City. He then worked at Condé Nast in 2011 as a graphic designer under the mentorship of Scott Dadich. After moving back to Taiwan, he re-joined Condé Nast as an Assistant Fashion Editor of GQ Taiwan and became the Head Of Editorial Content in 2021. In his role, he redefined the magazine’s editorial voice, aligning it more closely with the evolving taste of Taiwanese men, strengthening GQ Taiwan’s strong position in the fashion scene. The Condé Nast website even highlights Wang's impact, saying, “Wang has brought unconventional styling & photography ideas to the magazine, managed Instagram optimization strategy, and secured top US talents such as the late Kobe Bryant, Paul Rudd, Jeremy Renner and Vin Diesel on exclusive covers for the local market” (Source: Condé Nast website).

Photo credit: Mr. Triangle / Kevin Wang

And speaking of Instagram, Wang’s hands-on approach to GQ Taiwan’s social media presence has done more than just maintain the magazine’s glossy allure—it has redefined it, transforming GQ Taiwan into a multifaceted platform where its Head of Editorial Content personally engages with readers. Wang doesn’t just sit behind the scenes; he’s front and center, appearing in reels for Rimowa and leading fashion talks where he dives deep into collections like Dior’s Fall/Winter 2024. This level of direct interaction is quite rare, compare it to GQ Australia, for example, where the Editor-in-Chief maintains a far more detached relationship with their social media audience.

When Wang took the reins in July 2021, GQ Taiwan’s website drew 476,717 visitors that month—numbers that were even lower in the months prior, according to SE Ranking. Under his era, readership has steadily grown, reaching 1,727,547 visitors by July 2024. This surge isn’t just about numbers; it’s about Wang’s editorial vision. His focus on profiling men from diverse walks of life and exploring the intersections of fashion, culture, and modern masculinity has struck a chord with today’s readers. Wang’s progressive and inclusive approach has made GQ Taiwan more than just a magazine—it’s now a platform that genuinely resonates with a new generation in a way that feels fresh and authentic.

Screenshot taken from SE Ranking

What made him good at his job is his genuine love for fashion. His Instagram is a treasure trove of looks that set him to be one of the most stylish men in Asia. Though in ten years time, both his son Denim and Khaki would surely join Asia's most stylish list, I mean, who doesn’t like Cookie Monster or Elmo headbands? His “elevator shots” feature pieces from various designers, like the green bird shirt by ADSB Andersson Bell, a brushed mohair hoodie by Celine x Marcelo Lavin, and plaid black Bermuda shorts by Comme des Garçons Addiction, often alongside his two children and wife. Wang clearly appreciates both classic and edgier looks, though our hunch tells us that he'd choose a relaxed Gucci suit with embellishments over a tailored Tom Ford suit. But don’t quote us on that—we could be wrong!

Wang’s impeccable taste sends a powerful message about the evolution of men’s fashion and the definition of masculinity. As Wang demonstrates, masculinity is not confined to rigid stereotypes. Men can embrace fashion in all its forms—they can wear Chanel, paint their nails, and don pearls while still exuding confidence and strength. Wang’s style is a proof of the idea that masculinity can be as diverse and multifaceted as the men who define it. His fearless approach to fashion challenges traditional norms and encourages men to express their individuality, proving that true style knows no boundaries.

Photo credit: Kevin Wang

But Wang’s impact is not limited to his fashion sense. His career trajectory is proof of the power of dedication and perseverance—qualities that seem increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced, instant-gratification culture. Unlike the overnight success stories that often dominate social media, Wang’s rise to prominence has been a slow burn, marked by hard work and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His story serves as a refreshing reminder that true success is built over time through continuous learning and the honing of one’s craft. In a world where instant fame is just a click away, his career stands as evidence that dedication and perseverance still hold immense value. Wang’s rise is not just another success story; it’s a blueprint for anyone looking to make a lasting impact, proving that real success isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about the journey that gets you there.

As he continues to push the boundaries of fashion, he inspires us all to dress fearlessly and reminds us that true style is about more than just following trends—it’s about confidently expressing who we are, in all our complexity, through what we wear. His influence goes beyond his style or the magazine he directs; it lies in his ability to challenge us to rethink masculinity and menswear, embrace our unique identities, and approach fashion as a form of self-expression.

Discover Kevin Wang's Instagram here.

Cover photo and banner photo credit: Robert Weng, Mr. Triangle