Beverly Hills sparkled with an extraordinary blend of timeless elegance and contemporary influence as Brooks Brothers, the venerable American apparel institution, partnered with Gold House, the leading nonprofit advancing Asian Pacific socioeconomic impact, to host an unforgettable Lunar New Year dinner at the iconic Mr. Chow. The star-studded Thursday evening event transcended a mere celebration, transforming into a vibrant testament to cultural pride, community strength, and forward-thinking leadership, setting a powerful tone for the Year of the Wood Dragon.
The choice of Mr. Chow in Beverly Hills as the backdrop for this auspicious gathering was no coincidence. For decades, the restaurant has stood as a beacon of sophisticated Chinese cuisine and a nexus for Hollywood’s elite and international tastemakers. Its opulent ambiance, renowned for its art-filled interiors and impeccable service, provided the perfect setting to honor the rich traditions of Lunar New Year while embracing a modern narrative of success and solidarity. This collaboration underscored a deeper significance: bridging the storied legacy of American fashion with the dynamic, rapidly expanding influence of the Asian Pacific community in arts, entertainment, and entrepreneurship.
Brooks Brothers, with its nearly 200-year history, has long been synonymous with American style, quality craftsmanship, and a quiet confidence that has dressed generations of leaders and innovators. Under the stewardship of CEO Ken Ohashi, the first Asian American to lead the brand, and the creative direction of Michael Bastian, the label is undergoing a thoughtful renaissance, evolving its heritage to resonate with a diverse, global clientele. Their partnership with Gold House signals a strategic commitment to inclusivity and a recognition of the growing power and cultural contributions of the Asian Pacific diaspora. Gold House, on the other hand, has rapidly emerged as a formidable force, dedicated to elevating the Asian Pacific community through various initiatives, from its groundbreaking "Gold List" recognizing excellence in film and television to fostering robust networks of influential leaders across industries. The collaboration between these two entities—one representing established American heritage, the other championing a vibrant, emerging cultural force—is a powerful symbol of a new American tapestry, rich in diverse narratives and shared aspirations. The Brooks Brothers-Gold House capsule collection, worn notably by Gold House CEO Bing Chen, subtly highlighted this synergistic bond, blending classic aesthetics with a modern, purposeful message.
The guest list for the evening was a veritable who’s who of influential figures, showcasing the breadth and depth of Asian Pacific talent and its allies across entertainment, fashion, and media. Ji-young Yoo, the breakout star of the highly anticipated "KPop Demon Hunters," graced the event, embodying the fresh faces and exciting new narratives emerging in the entertainment landscape. Veteran actor Daniel Dae Kim, a steadfast advocate for Asian Pacific representation and a prominent figure in Hollywood, brought his gravitas and charm, reinforcing the evening’s themes of leadership and community. Harry Shum Jr., celebrated for his captivating performances, attended alongside his accomplished wife, Shelby Rabara, whose voice artistry is set to enchant audiences in the upcoming "Toy Story 5." Their presence underscored the power of creative couples shaping the industry.
The event also welcomed a new generation of influential voices. Yara Shahidi, the multitalented actress, activist, and style icon, whose work on "Grown-ish" and her broader advocacy has made her a powerful role model for young women, attended with her mother, Keri Shahidi, highlighting the importance of familial support and intergenerational influence. Jeannie Mai, the dynamic television personality and entrepreneur, known for her vibrant presence and fashion insights, brought her signature energy. Fashion influencer Nick Wooster, celebrated for his distinctive style, and Bobby Berk, the beloved design expert and former "Queer Eye" star, added a touch of contemporary lifestyle and design authority. Celebrity jeweler Ben Baller, known for his bespoke creations, further elevated the room’s luxurious ambiance. Leading stylists Jeanne Yang and Jared Eng, who often dictate trends from behind the scenes, were also present, alongside TV personality Lawrence Zarian, affirming the event’s fashion-forward appeal. The presence of Mr. Chow’s own visionary founder, Michael Chow, and his daughter, China Chow, lent an authentic layer of prestige and personal connection to the venue’s illustrious history.
The evening’s formal program commenced with welcome remarks from Brooks Brothers CEO Ken Ohashi, who, joined by Creative Director Michael Bastian, articulated a profound vision. "Brooks Brothers has long defined what success looks like in America," Ohashi stated, "and in this room is what success looks like in America." His words resonated deeply, acknowledging the historical legacy of the brand while simultaneously expanding its definition of American success to encompass the vibrant diversity and multifaceted achievements of the individuals present. It was a powerful statement on evolving ideals of leadership and the inclusive future of American industry.
Following Ohashi, Gold House CEO Bing Chen delivered a compelling and thought-provoking address that acknowledged current global challenges while inspiring resilience and proactive building. Chen, wearing a sweatshirt from the Brooks Brothers-Gold House capsule collection, spoke candidly about the anxieties of the present moment. "It is a very troubling time for a lot of people and it’s about to get much more painful when people realize the AI jobs are not coming back," he observed, touching upon widespread concerns about technological disruption and economic shifts. Yet, his message quickly pivoted to one of profound optimism and empowerment, especially pertinent for the Lunar New Year. While 2024 marks the Year of the Wood Dragon, symbolizing strength, nobility, and ambition, Chen invoked the spirit of the "fire horse" – a powerful metaphor for dynamic energy and courageous advancement. "So our message in the year of the fire horse is to charge forward on building things that you know deeply, whether it’s with your neighbors that you trust, in an industry you love and so forth," he urged. His counsel emphasized authenticity, community, and purpose-driven creation as antidotes to uncertainty. He concluded with an impactful maxim: "While it is the most painful time, no pressure, no diamonds. This is truly the best time to build." His words served as a rallying cry, particularly for the entrepreneurial spirit inherent in the Asian Pacific community, advocating for proactive creation and forging meaningful connections during times of significant change.
The culinary experience at Mr. Chow was a journey in itself, steeped in tradition and exquisite flavors. Dinner began with a captivating noodle-making demonstration, a symbolic act deeply rooted in Chinese culture, representing longevity and good fortune. Guests watched in awe as skilled chefs transformed simple dough into delicate strands, setting a tone of anticipation and appreciation for the artistry involved. The menu featured a curated selection of Mr. Chow’s legendary signature dishes, each a masterpiece of flavor and presentation. Guests savored the perfectly balanced chicken satay, the sweet and savory glazed prawns with walnuts, the subtle complexity of drunken fish, and the vibrant freshness of green prawns. Each dish was a testament to the restaurant’s half-century legacy of culinary excellence, providing not just sustenance but a cultural immersion.
Midway through the meal, the evening escalated into a spectacle of vibrant cultural expression with a surprise traditional lion dance. The rhythmic drumming and cymbal crashes filled the room as the colorful, majestic lions bounded through, their intricate movements symbolizing prosperity, good luck, and the warding off of evil spirits. The unexpected performance captivated guests, drawing gasps of delight and applause, adding an electric energy that beautifully fused the celebratory spirit of the Lunar New Year with the sophisticated ambiance of the event. It was a moment that underscored the power of cultural tradition to unite and enchant.
As the evening drew to a close, guests were not only enriched by the company and the cultural experience but also left with thoughtful tokens of appreciation. Each attendee received a gift card for a complimentary made-to-measure Brooks Brothers dress shirt, a gesture that spoke to the brand’s commitment to personalized quality and enduring style, echoing its heritage of bespoke craftsmanship. Additionally, guests received a commemorative book celebrating Mr. Chow’s remarkable 50th anniversary, a lasting memento of the restaurant’s indelible mark on culinary and cultural history. These parting gifts served as a tangible reminder of an evening that celebrated heritage, embraced the future, and affirmed the powerful synergy between fashion, culture, and community leadership. The Lunar New Year dinner hosted by Brooks Brothers and Gold House was more than just a gathering; it was a vibrant declaration of unity, resilience, and the evolving landscape of American success, inspiring all present to charge forward into the Year of the Dragon with purpose and pride.
