Anna Sui delves deep into the wonders of the ocean for her SS24 collection. Captivated by Australia’s Gold Coast and a number of underwater films by George Melies – ‘The Kingdom of the Fairies’ and ‘Under the Sea’, Sui’s latest collection pays homage not only to the beauty of the oceans but to her desire to protect and conserve them. “One of the most gorgeous sights I’ve ever seen is the underwater coral reefs and sea life,” she said in her show notes. “The reality of this and all the coral reefs around the world disappearing has shocked me into realising the fragility of everything.”
The collection is brimming with oceanic fabrics and prints, fluttering as if moving under the water themselves, and shimmering in the swirls of colour and iridescence of the Mother of Pearl. Pieces including a botanical warp print denim and opalescent knit are clear references to Sui’s magical underwater world, while gingham pieces and oversized fish sweaters signal beachier elements. Floral mini dresses printed in pinks and greens sit alongside crochet bathing suits, kaftans and skorts for the perfect island adventure.
The collection shines in its dedication to detailing through accessories, from iridescent crochet hats and bags to fluttery handkerchiefs, jumbo shoulder bags in sequins, print and velvet, and mini bags in gingham, terry and Mother of Pearl. Tie-dye leather sandals and celestial sequined mules with a conch shell heel stand out as some of the most dramatic oceanic designs. Jewellery designed by Erickson Beamon presents an array of shells alongside butterfly and rhinestone trim cay-eyeglasses by Anna Sui Eyewear.
In her show notes, Anna Sui encourages people to get more involved in saving our oceans and links to the missionblue.com website.
Images courtesy of Anna Sui.
