Tadashi Shoji Fall 2011

When & Where: Thursday, February 10 at 4 p.m., the Studio, Lincoln Center
Runway Recap: Tadashi Shoji tends to be inspired by accessible, natural things like light, trees, birds, etc., and his fall collection was no exception--the theme was the harmony of Far East gardens, and while the references might not always be glaringly obvious (which, I think is actually a good thing), they definitely work for Shoji. His dresses are beautifully made and quietly elegant; each one is like a zen masterpiece. For fall, he showed a series of jewel-toned draped wool jersey and silk crepe day dresses, transitioning into evening with strapless feather-fringed cocktail dresses, and finally into gathered Grecian-style silk chiffon gowns and embellished organza showstoppers. I thought the simpler looks were more successful and more interesting than the embellished ones, but overall it was, as they say, a very sellable collection.
Standout Look: The series of pleated silk chiffon gowns were my favorite in the show--there's just something so classic and ethereal about this type of dress, and yet the warm yellow hue (sunglow, as Shoji called it) looks fresh and modern.
Bonus Points: One of my favorite models, Bruna Tenorio, walked in the show, and her angular beauty was the perfect complement to the softness of the dresses.
Where to Buy: Click here to find a store.

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