"Who fell asleep"

Autumn Winter 2020 by Yuhan Wang

Intrigued by the rituals of mourning and funeral ceremonies, Yuhan Wang presents an Autumn Winter collection infused with the beautiful spirit of melancholy. “In the Victorian era, young , strong minded women prepared for death in life incorporating symbols and black lace in special occasion attire. That foresight is invaluable in cherishing life in the now,” says Wang. Wang, who debuted on the Fashion East platform, is presenting her first collection as a solo designer consolidating and expanding upon the east west fusion, delicate feminine sensibility and time warp Victorian silhouettes that make up her signature. New to her lexicon are ‘walking suits’ featuring a mid calf fishtail skirt and a waisted jacket cut in frayed edge floral tapestry print or reversible fake astrakhan lined gold hammered satin. Elegant Sunday best coats in black and blue jacquard with exaggerated lapels have a bohemian air while black lace is introduced in flounced blouses. Wang’s trademark ruched and draped stretch satin dresses feature the designer’s hand drawn rosebuds alongside a goldfish and water grass print. “The goldfish represents a prosperity and health. Flowers represent vitality. I like to abstract my prints so they appear out of focus or not immediately recognizable,” says Wang who also includes a Monet-esque water lily motif on a short pile fake fur dressing gown coat. Fabrics span the ready-made and the handcrafted with decorative appliques made from Chinese dead stock cotton lace. The refined silhouettes allow for a real freedom of movement and are set off by Louis heeled fabric button boots, pumps and whimsical pearl jewellery.