Courtesy: Stevie and Mada
The Power Is Within You
Andrea Jiapei Li revealed her Fall/Winter 2017 collection today named “embrace”, which explores the themes of vulnerability and empowerment through self-discovery.
Inspired by Denis Villeneuve’s science-fiction film “the Arrival”, the collection depicts a woman who overcomes the unknown, and embraces the future with bravery and confidence.
While introspective exploration and discovery have always been celebrated in Andrea’s past work, they are portrayed more explicitly in the FW17 collection through a range of materials.
A hint of hazmat suit can be found in the coated silver bomber jacket with oversized sleeves, whereas the white parka with water-repellent nylon backing serves as a protective shield against the unknown.
In the same way as the protagonist in the film gradually develops an ease and confidence in facing the unfamiliar environment, the collection’s materials evolve from being functional and protective, to being soft and refined, as shown in the burgundy double-breasted cashmere blazer and coral ponte stirrup pants.
Also noteworthy is the designer’s experimentation with fabrics including cotton velvet and corduroy, their feminine touch is balanced with the use of sportswear elements such as metal snaps, piping and double-way zippers.
At the end of the day, the heroine of the collection is a woman who embodies both classic elegance and modern femininity, who fully embraces who she is and her capability of making a difference in the world.
Andrea Jiapei Li is a New York-based womenswear designer and a graduate of the MFA in Fashion Design and Society program at Parsons the New School of Design.
Andrea’s work focuses on unique silhouettes and creative fabric techniques.
Her designs are modern and sporty without sacrificing elegance and femininity.