The Jan Dynasty

Uptown/Downtown gave designer Antonio “Jan” Garcia a fashion challenge — interpret ancient China in the most current yet couture manner possible.

Armed with films ranging from The Last Emperor, The Banquet and Curse of the Golden Flower, Antonio put his imagination to the test!

Sixteen years ago, Anton “Jan” Garcia left for the States to pursue his fashion education in the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles. After graduating summa cum laude, Garcia put up his own fashion house under his own label Antonio Garcia — specializing in special occasion gowns, suits and dresses. At the same time, Garcia was given a post as design instructor in his alma mater (FIDM). His line found his way to stores such as Saks Fifth Ave. and Jacobson’s. From 1996 to 2000, Garcia was a regular fixture in New York Fashion Week at Bryant Park. His celebrity clients include: Opera singer Katherine Battle and actresses Sally Field and Goldie Hawn.

 “Women want to be beautiful all the time,” Jan shares. “I now it sounds like a cliche but it is so true! I make an effort to be discriminating with my textiles. I like to play with silks and construct them to flatter the female form. Recently, I am fascinated to making close-to-the-body silhouette and playing with volume.”