September 21, 2023 |
Chet Lo reclaimed his power for SS24. A self-expression manifesting in slinky, backless dresses and wired arm cords, the Chinese-American designer used his latest offering to say a big fuck you to heteronormative standards of beauty. An ode to his teenage self, the collection embraced themes of sensuality and desire to address the feelings of sexual shame Lo experienced growing up.
Drawing inspiration from ancient Chinese and Japanese erotic art which celebrated and normalised same-sex relationships, the offering pressed bold PDA prints onto lacey trousers and devoré tops. A spattering of sleek and statement suiting circled the runway with an air of strength and tenacity, whilst printed, white leather brought fighter spirit. In keeping with his most recognised technique, viscose yarn was molded into bouncing spikes, forming bodycon dresses and belly-baring tops, whilst a reference to Shibari – a form of Japanese rope bondage – manifested in snaking cuffs that decorated arms and stretched across chests. A particular highlight was the beauty, with models donning hair crafted into stiff, fire-like wraps, designed by hairstylist Anna Cofone.
Lo’s SS24 collection was a daring yet intimate showcase of the journey to self-love.
Photography courtesy of Chet Lo.
