Mulan steals a march
Weekend Glitz | Elaine Chung and Cara Chen 5 Mar 2021
Shiatzy Chen Tsai-hsia, a designer specializing in taking inspiration from the Orient, has become increasingly adept at incorporating Western elements into her works.
Her spring/summer 2021 collection draws inspiration from legendary Chinese figure Mulan, who took her aged father's place in the army by disguising herself as a man.
It expresses a contemporary woman's style of clean-cut neutrality, independence, outspokenness and sex appeal.
A military shirt is paired with baggy joggers or big-pocket shorts; a one-piece swimsuit with cycling tights under a sheer long skirt is accessorized with thin tulle ties; and a leather belt and cotton corset inspired by horse-riding garments accents the waistline in various looks.
The army style not only dominates the collection's silhouette but is also extended to its colors, prints and accessories.
A palette of olive green and khaki takes center stage, while black and white tones are interpreted with the brand's original jacquard and hand-embroidered patterns.
Vibrant colors such as bright yellow, green, pink and fluorescent peach enliven a graffiti print representing hope and glory for the future.
To echo the theme, exclusive military-inspired prints, such as galloping horses, swords, birds and magnolias in bloom, are used on vests, dresses and tote bags.
Equestrian elements are also featured throughout - studs decorate hats and belts, while a scabbard ornament adorns the laser cut crew-length combat boots.
