September 12, 2023 |
Anna Sui‘s latest collection dived deep into the iridescence and motley colours of the ocean. Inspired by the designer’s fascination with Australia’s Gold Coast, as well as a multitude of underwater-themed films like The Kingdom of Fairies and Under the Sea by George Melies – the featherlight fabrics and undulate patterns that rippled throughout made it a complete and total celebration of the sea. Sui’s vision of a vivid underwater world unfurled as if a kaleidoscope of exotic fish, coral and mermaids were all dancing in synchronicity, and came to life with an air of carefree whimsy – it was utterly Anna Sui.
Oceanic references abounded from beginning to end. Fluttering, swirling and shimmering hues mimicked the opalescence of Mother of Pearl and other sublime seashells. Jacquards were metallic – sometimes iridescent – and laser printed with lush ‘deep blue’ graphics and tropical details. There was a botanical-warp printed denim and a opalescent knit, plus gingham paired with embroidered organza that glistened with sequins. Sui expressed that she was a particular fan of the oversized fish jumpers which arrived on the runway in pretty pastel tones and layered over gingham twinsets and a glitter slip dresses. We’ve got a craving for the mini arcadia blossom-printed princess dress and its matching boudoir bed jacket. Elsewhere, a series of riviera crochet bathing suits, kaftans and a terry cabana jacket and skort co-ord made for the ideal ensemble for a midday stroll around Monte Carlo.
Accompanying the rather quaint yet perfectly playful creations came complimentary accessories. These included crochet hats and bags, fluttery kerchiefs, jumbo sequin shoulder bags (also in printed and velvet variations) and mini bags in gingham, terry and a material that, once again, mimicked Mother of Pearl. For footwear, there were John Fluevog sandals in tie-dye leather and mules with an almost celestial sequin pattern, or metallic leather with a conch shell heel.
The jewellery, by Erickson Beamon, evoked sexy siren energy, coalescing as formations of shells adorned with iridescent beads and bubbles. From Anna Sui’s Eyewear brand, the butterfly and rhinestone trim cat-eyeglasses were our pick. So, slip into the laid-back rhythm of paradise and feel the warm sea breeze on your skin – just make sure to do it in Anna Sui.
Photographs courtesy of Anna Sui.
