I recently saw Andy Yu appear on the hit Netflix show, Owning Manhattan. Undoubtedly, he was attending a fashion-forward event wearing his "chic-cycled" creations alongside noteworthy friends. He always makes a statement, from what he wears to who he's with and what he's working on.
I originally met Andy during the pandemic through a top stylist at Saks Fifth Avenue and a mutual friend. I was looking to secure an auction item for a fundraiser and our phone introduction led to securing box seats at Madison Square Garden for the charity. Needless to say, I was impressed at how generous he was from the moment we met. Fast forward a couple of years, Andy has invited me to many of his community-driven events that support culture, local brands, and unique businesses. I've had the honor and unique privilege of meeting his family, and friends -- including the noteworthy ones, and I can honestly say that he’s built a wonderful community.
Besides being a people person, what I love most about Andy is his passion and talent for art, fashion, and inclusively. I should also add that he's a great chef and that he knows how to make an exquisite (and delicious) dumpling. I suggest you watch him make them on the hit Roku show, Martha Cooks! As I interviewed him for this article and we spoke about the many projects that he's working on from fashion shows at the UN to high-profile gala events in collaboration with some of the biggest names in fashion worldwide, I was most intrigued by a local space that he is developing on his property in Westchester. A space designed and curated to promote coming together by this talented individual is sure to be unlike anything else.
SB: What inspired you to create a space to share food and art with the community?
AY: You know I love culture and bringing people together. I find that food is a great gateway and platform for this. From local dumpling pop-ups to entertaining dinner parties at my home with renowned Chefs, I enjoy it all. During the pandemic, we moved to Westchester so that our boys could escape the City and experience country living. We started building the barn and at the time I knew this would be a space to host and entertain. Over the past few years, I’ve developed a new network of friends in the local community and the idea to make this more of a multi-cultural experience started to take shape. I want to celebrate cultures from around the world through food and friends.
SB: Since retiring from a successful career in the fashion industry you’ve taken on a lot of new projects related to fashion sustainability. How has this evolved?
AY: Yes, this year has been extremely busy for me and we’re just getting started. I was invited by CCTV network to create a fashion collection showcasing 30 upcycled looks for a very special event that celebrated the Lunar New Year. The event was broadcast all over the world and all major media outlets covered it. Martha Steward and Fern Mallis walked down the runway with me at the end. It was an iconic moment and I was proud to share my culture with New York and the world! This summer I was invited by the UN to execute a similar show with 20 looks during the “International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations”. Through creative expression, art can bring people together, bridging differences and promoting a sense of unity and mutual respect across various cultures. What I am doing now is so much more than fashion, it is sharing and celebrating culture to bring people together. I am also focused on sustainability and preserving nature. I incorporate the elements into what I am doing now and I would say nature and the elements are reflected in my new designs.
SB: What are some of your favorite events in the Westchester community?
AY: I am a supporter of the Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts and attend their annual gala. This is a special place and right in our backyard. I also enjoy The Summer Party at The Glass House in New Canaan just over the border and Farm Dinner at the John Jay Homestead. These events are well-curated and support important cultural organizations. I also hosted a “Sew-Stainable” event at the Community Center of Northern Westchester in Katonah. This event was in partnership with the Katonah Museum of Art and Bedford 2030. I highlighted eco-friendly chic styling which has become my signature. A lot of the events I enjoy incorporate nature and preservation.
SB: What can we expect this fall?
AY: I’m currently collaborating with friends in the fashion industry to unite top designers in support of a foundation I started with Unipix Media and CKS Management. Our mission is to support women and children in fashion and art. To raise funds and awareness, we are planning a gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art or a similar prestigious venue. People can stay updated with all the latest on my website (andyyunyc.com) where I share details about the many projects I'm involved in. Additionally, I will begin hosting private events at the barn featuring a chef-tasting series. I envision the space as an immersive experience with music, art, food, and community, showcasing all the things I love.