"FROM CHINA WITH LOVE"
Words/Showroom Images Judith Ecochard
When we used to travel around the globe, back in college---besides the affordability factor of youth hostels only, we always had a strong sense of where we were---by the topography/landscape, food, language, climate, ethnic types, and absolutely, the clothes.
Now, everyone kinda looks the same with traditional garb worn for only tourists in many instances...and the unique styles---gone, replaced by mostly denim with a tee---now universal.
EVEN luxury brands are mass market nowadays...the same goods are available everywhere just about.
Which is why we really liked the Shanghai Tang Fall 2011 collections for Men and Women RTW---with the MO:
"A re-discovery of modern China Aesthetics...A journey of self-expression and TRANSFORMATION...China's dynastic return to a world of LUXURY, MODERN individualism and teh exploration of the NEW old from CHINA..."
YES! There is a strong design element/point of view- that is uniquely theirs---but accessible, not derivative of stereotypical Chinese apparel.
We thought the separates and accessories---all well made, with subtle references to the trends---
but not slavishly so---what we call modern classics.
THEMATIC HIGHLIGHTS:
"Treasure Chest" with a modern take on the classic qipao, silk trousers, longer skirts, all elegantly draped...
Terrific prints and a darker palette with "Vintage Screen" with the prints of peonies, China's preferred flower, and references to elegant antique garments with cloud, phoenix butterfly motifs.
Urban Warrior---especially in the want it leather and shearling coats with high collars and details such as hand-embroidered tribal motifs.
ACCESSORIES:
Sophisticated---with silk and cashmere scarves, satchels with great details...in all shaoes, colors and prints.
 |
| Wool Coat-Velvet Collar (l) / Rice Field Silk Qipao, Cloud Waist belt |
Words/Showroom Images Judith Ecochard
When we used to travel around the globe, back in college---besides the affordability factor of youth hostels only, we always had a strong sense of where we were---by the topography/landscape, food, language, climate, ethnic types, and absolutely, the clothes.
 |
| Washed cord jacket-Checker cashmere knitted scarf |
 |
| Silk Cashmere Jacket Cardigan |
 |
| Cashmere Pullover with contrast placket |
Now, everyone kinda looks the same with traditional garb worn for only tourists in many instances...and the unique styles---gone, replaced by mostly denim with a tee---now universal.
EVEN luxury brands are mass market nowadays...the same goods are available everywhere just about.
Which is why we really liked the Shanghai Tang Fall 2011 collections for Men and Women RTW---with the MO:
"A re-discovery of modern China Aesthetics...A journey of self-expression and TRANSFORMATION...China's dynastic return to a world of LUXURY, MODERN individualism and teh exploration of the NEW old from CHINA..."
YES! There is a strong design element/point of view- that is uniquely theirs---but accessible, not derivative of stereotypical Chinese apparel.
 |
| Cotton Velvet |
 |
| Flannel Padded Vest, Washed Checked Shirt |
We thought the separates and accessories---all well made, with subtle references to the trends---
but not slavishly so---what we call modern classics.
THEMATIC HIGHLIGHTS:
"Treasure Chest" with a modern take on the classic qipao, silk trousers, longer skirts, all elegantly draped...
 |
| Phoenix Tatoo Qipao |
 |
| Officer Belted Wool Coat |
Terrific prints and a darker palette with "Vintage Screen" with the prints of peonies, China's preferred flower, and references to elegant antique garments with cloud, phoenix butterfly motifs.
Urban Warrior---especially in the want it leather and shearling coats with high collars and details such as hand-embroidered tribal motifs.
 |
| Toscana Shearling Coat |
 |
| Embroidered Back |
 |
| Down jacket with knot closures |
ACCESSORIES:
Sophisticated---with silk and cashmere scarves, satchels with great details...in all shaoes, colors and prints.
 |
| Mongolian Hobo Shearling |
 |
| Chinese Knot Ankle Boots, Tatoo Stilettos |
 |
| Braid Hobo detail |
 |
| Tatoo Stilettos |
 |
| Hobos (l) Phoenix Fan Clutch (r) |
 |
| Warrior Pendant and Cuff (front, l) Phoenix Bangle and Ring (r) |
 |
| Courtesy Shanghai Tang-Dragon Embroidery Denim Pants-w/ Color Cotton Shirt |
 |
| Officer Silk Shirt with jade Buttons, Pleated Silk Pants, Mongolian Hobo Shearling |
 |
| Braid Hobo Handle |