Pre-NYFW Chat with Cult Genderless Fashion Brand Private Policy
New York City-based genderless cult fashion brand PRIVATE POLICY is always one to watch at New York Fashion Week. Founded in 2016 by China-born Parsons School of Design graduates Siying Qu and Haoran Li, the duo models their design process after newspaper outlets. In other words, each season explores a social topic they’re passionate about. Previous collections presented at NYFW have zeroed in on everything from preserving coral reefs and the enslaved fishermen crisis to society’s relationship with money and pharmaceutical corruption. CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Finalists in 2019 and consistent champions of inclusivity and empowerment, the “It” brand’s crazy, sexy, cool aesthetic always evokes NYC’s rebellious spirit and is often worn by downtown clubgoers as well as superstars like Dua Lipa and Billie Eilish. Read on for our chat with PRIVATE POLICY co-founder and creative director Siying Qu, who’s busily preparing for another anticipated NYFW show—and whose brand always delivers in the bold, beautiful, and thought-provoking department.
Alex Catarinella: Tell us about your journey with PRIVATE POLICY, from launching the brand to where it is today.
Siying Qu: It is a journey of thinking that we are prepared to value discovering what we don’t know and be okay with it. The first good moment for me was when people finally understood what the brand was about—that genderless fashion is not impossible and fashion can talk about more serious topics.
What can we expect from your Spring/Summer 2025 collection without giving too much away?
The next collection is for our fashion community, an insider connection, while we question the balance of productivity and creativity at the beginning of this AI revolution.
How do you pick the music for your runway shows?
We go with the energy, emotion, and concept, and then just trust the professionals to do their music magic.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I like to look at the front-of-house seated guests and give myself a moment to take it in just as an observer. A runway show takes months to plan and many teams, but the actual show is just minutes—it’s so fast and so exciting, but I want a moment to just appreciate the whole thing.
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Let’s talk all things NYC. Where do you go, and what do you do when feeling uninspired?
I go on 15K-step long walks for people watching—how New Yorkers dress, talk, and interact with each other. Sometimes I research the news, artists, and real-life stories that have an obsessive quality.
Do you have a favorite restaurant? What’s your must-order?
Recently I have loved Thai food; Thai Diner’s sundae is so good.
Favorite coffee shop?
My neighborhood tiny coffee shop for my matcha latte treat for a WFH break.
Park?
I love all the parks by the rivers in NYC.
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Who is a NYC-based creative you enjoy?
Lucia Buricelli’s photography is very New York.
Where do you shop in NYC?
LES is nice to find interesting things.
What would your ideal day off from work look like in NYC?
I’d probably go to an exhibition or try a new restaurant. Fashion work is intense; when I am off work, something chill sounds great.
What is your favorite song that reminds you of the New York you love?
Teyana Taylor’s “WTP” reminds me of “Fight the Power.” It has a very NYC energy—hustling and being yourself.
WORDS Alex Catarinella
PHOTOGRAPHY Courtesy Private Policy