As China’s “Queen of the Suit,” should we expect anything less than impeccable tailoring from designer Wang Tao? The answer is no.
Taoray Wang, Tao’s namesake brand, has a certain je ne sais quoi that balances maturity, wearability, and style that doesn’t come off as trite or antiquated. This season, Tao draws inspiration from Russia’s longest-ruling female leader, Catherine the Great— a fitting reference since Tao specializes in equipping women with a formidable, professional wardrobe.
Opening with a single button, pinstripe suit, power is the first thing that comes to mind. The red lining peeped out of the flared pant as the model strutted across the runway, a subtle detail we spotted on a couple of looks. Neutral sportcoats were belted with black liquorice or Russian red leather belts to accentuate the female form, reminding us that femininity is just as strong during today’s societal climate.
As a patron of culture and art, Catherine the Great undoubtedly influenced Russian fashions of the 18th-century; today, Taoray Wang imbues the same love of culture by capturing the zeitgeist featuring more experimental silhouette and quirky detail, while maintaining her eye for appropriate and functional separates.
An unexpected, yet exciting section of red looks emerged after a military green duster coat scented with feathered sleeves duster coat had everyone recording and capturing pictures as the show proceeded to a close. Our favorite segment of the show was witnessing the risks Tao clearly took with this season: more lace, feathers, and interesting color combinations.
Olivia Palermo was in attendance and appeared to be enjoying herself as much as we did. We applaud Tao and her label for consistent delivery of fabulous collections season after season.
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Photos by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for New York Fashion Week: The Shows