HAIZHENWANG spring/summer 2018 collection presentation for LFW

For spring/summer 2018, HAIZHENWANG presents a collection inspired by “the human mistake”, juxtaposing seemingly unrelated fabrics and structures into a multifaceted and multi-layered series of looks, evoking various periods in history for the female form.

Mixed materials in various textures and colours are joined together creating a patchwork effect across the whole collection, presenting denim paired with lace and smart suit fabrics joined with bright yellow ruffles. Victoriana collars, bonnets and apron-like accents nod to a darker time for women, but are contrasted with blazer and pinstripe materials of a modern female aesthetic. Ruffles feature on almost all of the looks, showing it to be a key accent for this season. Delicate beading and thread work bring another textural dimension to monochromatic looks, bringing focus into an otherwise neutral element of the pieces.

The standout piece was the sunshine yellow puff sleeve shirt, with a central white shirt panel, black lace inserts and silver buttons as a final touch. This was the perfect blend of statement and understated joined together with vertical seams to create a orderly and yet eye-catching shirt.

Swarovski crystals adorn Nike trainers – both official sponsors of the collection – stating “Fragile” and “Handle with Care”; perhaps an overt display of the human condition today and how we are all on the verge of fracturing. This is also seen through the use of fencing masks and superhero style headgear which hide the face within. The ultra-modern sports footwear opposes historical accents shown throughout all the looks. Models sport clean, white eyes and slicked back hair, providing a simple backdrop for the intricate ensembles.

HAIZHENWANG transports us through multiple ages in fashion history and connects them with abandonment of traditional lines and shapes. The confidence in which this is carried out is what makes it so effective, and makes you question what is fashion but a compilation of history; the good and the bad?

Lizzie Dean 
Photos: Erol Birsen