A collaboration with Taiwanese artist Shih Hsiung Chou, Shao Yen Chen’s London presentation combined the idea of installation and performance as the models moved between and paused on glossy black pedestals like sculptures that had come alive.
Knitwear was at the centre of the collection, morphing into organic structures reminiscent of ribs or muscle. Loop-knitted textural collars adored cropped jackets and tops with a ‘90s vibe and super-sized textural hoop earrings added an urban twist. This was balanced out with sleeker pieces – straight calf-length skirts and tailored trousers, pleated dresses, sharp pea coats and stripy transparent shirts.
The collection exuded youthful bohemia – appropriately so perhaps, as Chen was greatly inspired by the works of Austrian painter Egon Schiele. Blending earthy maroons, camels and pale nude tones with dramatic black looks, Chen emphasised edges and three-dimensional knit techniques that echoed the artist´s iconic line and outlining of the body.
by Elisabeth Krohn
Photography Elisabeth Krohn and Valentina Egoavil Medina