Shalou Debuts First Collection
"ZHUANG YUAN"
Taiwanese clothing label Shalou has officially launched its first seasonal collection for Fall/Winter 2024, titled “ZHUANG YUAN.” Founded by Ko, a graduate of Tokyo’s Bunka Fashion College, the brand seeks to reimagine clothing with a fresh and rebellious inclusive perspective, drawing from both personal and cultural influences.
The collection offers a satirical take on Asia’s education systems, with a particular focus on the role of the necktie. According to Ko, the necktie, typically a symbol of pride and formality in school uniforms, is reinterpreted as a form of restriction—a metaphorical "leash" that limits students' freedom within rigid academic structures.
The collection’s name, “ZHUANG YUAN,” refers to the top scholar of an ancient Chinese imperial exam, adding layers of irony to the reimagined "uniforms" that challenge traditional notions of success and conformity. Through Ko’s designs, this collection critiques the pressure and lack of autonomy experienced by students under such systems.
The lookbook for “ZHUANG YUAN” highlights these themes, showcasing bold, innovative designs that balance structure with subversive undertones. Each piece plays with the idea of what a uniform can represent in a contemporary fashion context.
Shalou’s inaugural collection is now available for purchase through the brand’s official website, inviting fashion-forward individuals to explore a blend of tradition, rebellion, and modern design.
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