Taoray Wang’s spring collection drew inspiration from an art exhibition she visited in Stockholm years ago, titled “Stripes, Rhythm and Direction,” that explored the versatility of stripe patterns in artwork. Applying the concept to her own designs, Wang made her spring offering a play on contrasts — masculine and feminine, tailoring and movement — for a modern take on men’s wear classics, with a touch of her Chinese heritage.
The sharp lines of tailored blazers and bottoms done in traditional men’s wear pinstripes were juxtaposed against delicate sheer lace skirts and tops for a play on hard and soft. Wang’s suits all featured printed silk linings inspired by traditional cheongsam, or mandarin gowns. It proved an effective yet discretionary way to incorporate her heritage into modern silhouettes. Other manifestations of the stripe appeared on a flowy, graphic black-and-white dress, a casual jumpsuit with ruffled pockets, and a sleeker black jumpsuit with white pleated paneling. Her small cocktail offering was particularly strong, with plenty of oversize button-down shirts and chic iterations of the little black dress.