Shao closed out New York Fashion week with a show that might be the only thing more controversial than the election (at least for us in the fashion world).
The collection entitled “Class Of 98: Rebellion Remastered” pays homage to a time period in which the designer describes as ” a shit show but an authentic one”. With 90s rock filling up Altman Studios, models rather aggressively strode out in the nostalgic garments. The vibe is obviously very grunge, between the boxy shapes and shoulder pads, the half-tucked, and undone button, messy is definitely the vibe throughout the collection.
Shapes are prominent but not particularly to emphasize the figure, and instead the use of shape shines in the tailoring (and sometimes lack thereof) for those “power looks, but I am kind of hungover” kind of way. Incorporating all the fabrics of the 90s: “Leather screams rebellion like a second skin kind of attitude, denim is our armor against a world gone mad. Cashmere? That’s the softness mocking the harsh realities we faced.”
She describes the collection as a collision of contrasts. “Pin Stripes scream, I’m going places.” while bombers whisper “I might just blow this joint.” However, whatever the clothes say, each motif says I’m badass, I’m cool, and I’m really not even trying to be. With plays off preppy schoolgirls, and after party rocker chic, I think that Shao Yang really covered her bases in epitomizing what the 90s meant, middle finger to the sky, and brought us back to some golden years, at least for those lucky enough to live through it (sorry Gen Zrs)
With an intention of creating a bit of discomfort and pushing boundaries, Shao closed in a crescendo having Anna Delvy, infamous fake heiress and fraudster, take the finale look, ankle monitor in tow.
Leave the gossip at the door, or don’t in this kind of arena, as intended, this collection was a bit of a mic drop to end fashion week.
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