Zang Toi FW13 NYFW

From carpet coats to structured trenches, the pieces for Zang Toi‘s Autumn/Winter 2013 season addressed modern opulence with inspiration drawn from the Russian Imperial Era. This influence was specifically picked up from the extravagance of the Peterhof Palace and the traditional Russian Faberge egg, which is symbolic for luxury and regarded as the jeweler’s masterpiece.

The elaborate designs of this sort were evident on a handful of pieces from Toi’s collection that were either fully enveloped with intricate wavelike designs or dressed with gold-coiled embroideries. These serpentine-like appliqués nestled upon gown’s necklines, outlined silky boleros, fanned jet-black velvet coats, and embraced a multitude of sleeves. The simple cutting-edge pieces were exceptions to the vivacious collection, as they stood crisply structured with contemporary, body-bearing designs and gently carved fissures.

Most of the pieces in this collection were approached with a modern eye; the colors used were strict (onyx, taupe, caramels and graphites) however there were a few lively sapphire and amethyst hues thrown into the pile of timeless classics. A lot of the shorts and dresses were completed with black tights and topped with frilly shoes. The collection was abundant with “the boyfriend” fitted trouser, and the singular-buttoned tuxedo blazer. Models on the runway sported perfectly teased curls compiled in a buoyant undo, smoky-shadowed eye-makeup, and a nude lip. Zang Toi refined Imperial Russian appeal with twenty-first century finesse to create a cutting-edge collection for fall. Written by Julia Paulescu.