As the lights dimmed and the classical tunes began to echo at the start of the show, it was evident that the audience was in for a whimsical presentation of what design vet Zang Toi had to offer for Spring 2014. Holding true to its “Ballet Babe” theme, dancer Cory Stearns commenced the show with a momentary, yet beautiful ballet routine, which elicited wild applause from audience members.
Once the collection emerged on the runway’s parading models, I began to envision the practicality that each item presented and how it would completely work during spring, considering the season’s fickle whether. In many pieces, Toi displayed the primary color of black atop delicate cerulean hues. Menswear inspired looks of pantsuits, featuring elongated lapels and Mandarin style high-collars were also spotted. Likewise, each look featured similar hints of navy and indigo blues.
Though many pieces read autumn, hints of spring began rolling in, as various garments came down the runways headlining a shade of pale pink. Yet nothing left on-lookers gasping more than the gorgeous gowns, set in-between those aforementioned practical pieces.
Each gown held true to the distinguished color scheme, many decorated with subtle – yet beautiful tulle and floral accents. All the gowns eyed on the runway were nothing short of breathtaking. We predict that at least one Hollywood starlet will be donning a Zang Toi creation during awards season.
Trends spotted: Shift dresses, accentuated capes, high collars, damask prints, dark colors (including black nail polish for spring), and the pairing of navy and sky blue.
My rating: Zang Toi’s presentation was contrary to what many spring collections typically have to offer, holding a few dark, yet beautiful elements reminiscent of the film Black Swan. I loved his incorporation of menswear and his use of color, as well as his introduction of the previously popular Mandarin collar. Overall, the showstoppers were the gowns sent down the runway, all equally impressive and stunning.
My favorite look: It’s a tie between the menswear-inspired silk belted jumpsuit complimented with an exaggerated dark cape and the sequined mermaid gown featuring color-blocked tulle at the bottom.
PHOTOS: GETTY
