By Smile Kwokori 

Alfred Sung Designs in the SFRC Collection

Born in Shanghai, China, on June 14th, 1948, Alfred Sung’s early life was marked by cultural diversity and the influences of a world undergoing transition. As the son of Chinese parents, he spent his formative years immersed in the rich tapestry of Shanghai’s cultural landscape. However, the political upheavals in China during the mid 20th century prompted his family to seek refuge in Hong Kong, where Alfred’s Interest in design and aesthetics began to take root. 

The Canadian Press/ Chris Young (October 23, 2014) 

Education: 

Alfred Sung, whose passion as a young man was to study painting and become a fine artist, was formally initiated into the world of fashion, in the year 1966. He immigrated to Paris as per his father’s wish, as a student where he studied Couture at the Chambre Syndicate de la couture Parisienne in France (the same design school that produced Yves Saint Laurent and Kenzo), and graduated with first place honours in Design. He later enrolled in the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York, a decision that would lay the foundation for his future success. New York, known then and now as a global fashion hub, provided him with exposure to diverse styles and design philosophies; shaping his perspectives and igniting his passion for fashion. During his time in that vibrant fashion scene his academic endeavours fuelled his creativity, and he honed his skills in pattern making and garment construction, setting the stage for a remarkable career in the fashion industry. 

Career:

Sung began his first job working as an assistant designer for a Seventh Avenue dress manufacturer, and not long after, made a decision that set his career in motion. In 1972, he moved to Canada, where he founded Moon – a high-end clothing store – in Toronto. This marked the beginning of his foray into the Canadian fashion scene. He sold his own designs and developed his signature style of easy, simple, uncluttered clothing. 

However, it was not until 1980 that Alfred Sung left an indelible mark on the Canadian fashion industry. Collaborating with Joseph and Saul Mimran, he launched the iconic fashion label “Club Monaco”, a brand that would become synonymous with sophisticated, minimalist designs. The venture not only solidified Sung’s status as a fashion visionary but also proved him to be a driving force in Canadian fashion. 

In 1983, Canada’s national news magazine MacLean’s, proclaimed Alfred Sung as Canada’s “King of Fashion.” The pinnacle of Alfred Sung’s career came with the introduction of his bridal and evening wear line, “Alfred Sung Bridals”, launched in 1985. During L’Oreal Toronto Fashion Week (2008) Alfred Sung’s designs were celebrated for their ability to capture the feminine essence, making brides feel both modern and timeless on their special day.

Fragrances

In 1986 Alfred Sung became the first Canadian designer brand to be traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange, and within the same year he launched his first fragrance “Sung” Alfred Sung. It became the best-selling fragrance throughout Canada in that same year. Following its success, several other scents were produced including… Alfred Sung Forever, Pure Alfred Sung, Shi Alfred Sung, Jewel Alfred Sung, and Always. They were all major successes. 

In reflecting on Alfred Sung’s life history, we find a narrative of resilience, creativity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey from Shanghai to the pinnacle of the fashion world is a testament to the transformative power of passion, education and an unwavering commitment to one’s craft. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring designers and fashion enthusiasts, reminding us that true style transcends trends and endures through time. 

Alfred Sung’s career has spanned for over three decades and his name has been stamped on countless licensed product lines. He received numerous accolades and awards throughout his illustrious career. His impact on the Canadian fashion landscape, coupled with his contributions to bridal couture, secured his place as a revered figure in the industry. 

And finally, as a piece of advice to aspiring designers, in Alfred Sung’s own immortal words:

“Work very hard. Try your best. Be consistent.” 

Here are some other Sung standout designs:

In the following clip Alfred Sung describes attending school in Paris:

 

Works Cited:

Cover Image: https://alfredsung.com/blogs/news/designer-in-training

“Alfred Sung: Fashion Designer Biography.” FAMOUS FASHION DESIGNERS, https://www.famousfashiondesigners.org/alfred-sung. 

“Anna Lincoln.” Wedding Dress – Alfred Sung BRIDAL – 6834 | AlfredSung Bridal Gown, https://www.bestforbride.com/viewDress/395/AlfredSung/Bridal.php. 

BlogCFC technology, by Raymond Camden. “Bridal Gowns 2009: Alfred Sung Signature Collection.” Bride.ca, http://www.bride.ca/wedding-ideas/index.cfm/2008/11/27/Bridal-Gowns-2009-Alfred-Sung-Signature-Collection. 

Carley Fortune |  November 25, 2009, and Carley Fortune |  11/25/2009. “Alfred Sung Is Designing a Patio Furniture Line.” Toronto Life, 23 Oct. 2015, https://torontolife.com/shopping/alfred-sung-is-designing-a-furniture-line/. 

Casselman, Sarah. “Toronto: Alfred Sung, Pink Tartan and Mango.” FASHION Magazine, 11 Feb. 2020, https://fashionmagazine.com/style/toronto-alfred-sung-pink-tartan-and-mango/. 

“Derby Blazer.” Alfred Sung, https://alfredsung.com/products/derby-blazer?variant=31458037825647. 

“Draped Wrap Satin Maxi Dress with Pockets.” The Dessy Group, https://dessy.com/dresses/bridesmaid/alfred-sung-style-d776/#.YhfyzejMJPY. 

Gordon, Dave “How Joe Mimran’s passion for fashion was sparked by a checked suit” 12 November 2017 https://www.bbc.com/news/business-41909213

Mimran, Jordin. “Designer in Training.” Alfred Sung, Alfred Sung, 31 Dec. 2018, https://alfredsung.com/blogs/news/designer-in-training. 

Nguyen, Truc. “Alfred Sung’s Canadian Made-to-Measure Tailoring Experience.” NUVO, 15 Jan. 2020, https://nuvomagazine.com/daily-edit/alfred-sung. 

“Silver Alfred Sung Bridesmaid Dresses.” Theknot.com, https://www.theknot.com/real-weddings/silver-alfred-sung-bridesmaid-dresses-photo. 

Toronto Life |  October 31, 2016, and Toronto Life |  10/31/2016. “A Look at 50 Years of Toronto’s Most Influential Fashion Pioneers.” Toronto Life, 2 Nov. 2016, https://torontolife.com/style/toronto-50-years-of-fashion/.  

Smile Oghenemine Kwokori is a student researcher with the Seneca Canadian Fashion Diversity Project (SCFDP). The SCFDP is made possible by a both a grant to fund the student researchers, as well as institutional support for dr. Mark Joseph O’Connell.