Jason Wu S/S 2017

Models with Hand-embroidered floral appliqués dresses and gowns — (Image credit: Jason Lloyd-Evans)

Mood board: Jason Wu found inspiration in the tension between the artificial and the natural in the artwork of Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, whose ‘Seven Magic Mountains’ installation in the desert south of Las Vegas places stacked, technicolored boulders against the earthtones. Wu’s collaboration with Woolmark dismissed the notion that the material is only desirable for the cooler seasons with his featherweight wool pieces.

Finishing touches: Vividly hued floral appliqués were hand-embroidered onto dresses and gowns, creating a distinct contrast between them and the more subtle, neutral tones. Wu used copper metal threads to create a cinched waist on a pink taffeta dress, and delicate, sheer lace proved that there’s nothing to hide in a series of dresses.

Best in show: The electric floral motifs proved that Wu is indeed adept at couture-like construction, and they energised the neutral-coloured gowns, shirts and dresses they were used on. Whimsical, vibrant and playful, they added a contemporary touch to classic silhouettes.

Fashion models with the neutral-coloured gowns, shirts and dresses

Fashion model with the electric floral motifs dresses

fashion model with the neutral-coloured gowns

INFORMATION

Photography: Jason Lloyd-Evans

TOPICS

Ann Binlot is a Brooklyn-based freelance writer who covers art, fashion, design, architecture, food, and travel for publications like Wallpaper*, the Wall Street Journal, and Monocle. She is also editor-at-large at Document Journal and Family Style magazines.