Austin Wang and Yansong Liu, the dynamic duo behind fashion brand Ao Yes, kicked off the year with a bang by unveiling a highly successful collaboration with Zara, available exclusively in mainland China. Despite their unique design aesthetic, which may not be suitable for everyone, the partnership with Zara has propelled their global ambitions to new heights. Their recent runway show, only their third to date, showcased a comprehensive and well-rounded collection that left a lasting impression.
Drawing inspiration from images of youth in the Republic of China, Wang and Liu delved into the theme of young love in their latest collection. By combining elements of school uniforms with iconic love stories, such as Marina Abramovic’s performance art and scenes from classic films like Gattaca and In the Mood for Love, the designers captured the essence of unspoken emotions in relationships. The collection exuded a sense of self-assuredness and maturity, a departure from their previous exploration of unrequited love.
One standout piece from the collection was a fusion of traditional Chinese style with Western influences, featuring a cross-collared blouse paired with a qipao-inspired sheath dress. Liu’s meticulous tailoring, honed through his education at Bunka Fashion College, was evident in the sharp lines and precise cuts of the garments. From men’s shorts cleverly disguised as a skirt to elegantly draped coats and skirts, every piece exuded a sense of thoughtful design and craftsmanship.
The designers described their collection as an exploration of the unspoken, a reflection of the complexities of love and relationships. In a world where words often fail to express our true feelings, Ao Yes sought to capture the essence of young love with a sense of restraint and understatement. The result was a collection that struck the perfect balance between boldness and subtlety, embodying the fleeting, yet powerful nature of youthful romance.
With their latest collection, Wang and Liu have once again proven their ability to push boundaries and redefine traditional notions of fashion. By seamlessly blending Eastern and Western influences, they have created a collection that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. As they continue to expand their global presence, Ao Yes is poised to become a force to be reckoned with in the world of high fashion.
