One gown, 250 hours. Beneath the neoclassical arches of Columbia University’s Low Library, first-year Parsons fashion design student Enkhjin Batbold shined in the spotlight at Silk: First Light. Hosted on Nov. 17 by Columbia University’s Asian American Alliance, Batbold closed the show in her own design, delivering a finale that captured the evening’s theme of “fresh beginnings.” 

It was a show full of firsts for Batbold, marking a significant milestone as she presented her designs and modeled them herself in New York City for the very first time. “It was a big moment for me,” she explained. 

Batbold was one of three Parsons students invited to participate in the show, which celebrated emerging Asian American creatives. Recommended last minute by a friend, she had just two weeks to prepare but didn’t hesitate. “I started preparing as soon as I got the invite,” she said. 

At the center of Batbold’s debut was a three-piece gown inspired by the refined elegance of 1950s Chanel and the iconic glamour of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Featuring a structured over-bodice, a flowing underskirt, and a dramatic bow collar, the gown balanced classic sophistication with a theatrical, contemporary edge. 

“I like to focus on well-known classic silhouettes,” Batbold said. “I wanted to challenge myself in making something from that time with a little bit of a modern twist.”

The gown, her first attempt at creating a dress, originated as a personal project just a month and a half ago. Crafted entirely without a pattern, it required over 250 hours of meticulous hand-stitching. “I wanted it to look professional … and as finished as possible,” she explained. 

By walking in her own gown, Batbold fully embodied the story she sought to tell. It was a nerve-wracking endeavor, but one that felt entirely natural. “I am always trying to push myself into situations that take me out of my comfort zone … and it felt suitable for this design.” she explained. 

For Batbold, fashion is more than design — it’s about connecting with an audience. “I want the audience, especially women, to have … the feeling you get when you’re younger and watching a Disney movie, and you see yourself being a part of the story, being a character in that story, and having that fruition come to life,” she said. Her designs draw from themes of empowerment, escapism, and individuality, influenced by her multicultural upbringing. 

Born in Mongolia and raised in Chicago, Batbold’s perspective is shaped by her family’s background in textile engineering and her own experiences in theater and costume design. “I believe everyone has their own unique character, and I want my designs to cater to each person’s different personality and style,” she explained. 

Music, particularly jazz, also informs her work. “Music is one of the biggest inspirations for me, jazz, of course,” she said. “It’s deeply rooted in history and community.” Batbold strives for her designs to evoke that same intimacy and connection.

While her gown closed the show, Batbold’s other look — a leather jacket and skirt — revealed her more experimental side. Inspired by punk culture and designers like Thierry Mugler, the piece reflected her love for bold textures and her willingness to take risks. 

Batbold sees the show as only the beginning. With plans to create immersive runway shows that blend fashion, music, and performance, she envisions every element — from lighting to movement — working together to tell a story.

Walking off the catwalk, one thing was clear: Enkhjin Batbold is a designer with a story to tell — and she’s just getting started.