Son Jung Wan Spring 2014

Serenity now.  Son Jung Wan's Spring 2014 collection for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week took its inspiration from Morocco.  The reference is not immediately recognized, no dark djellabas or dowdy head wraps.  Instead, think relaxation in a private riad, watching a North African sunset.  The colors she used included pretty pink, tangerine and sunny yellows against shimmering ivory silk.

The first part of the show included a lot of origami-type folds and raw edged fabrics.  While this doesn't sound Moroccan, I found similar folded techniques in the leather goods of Fez.  There were some short hemlines for this light spring collection, which I can definitely say I did not see in Morocco.

Design details in this collection included a criss-cross lattice technique that was found on necklines and hems.  The lattice look was also carried into the platform sandals on the runway.  The criss cross look also was echoed in some of the bead and sequin embroidery.  Sequin and bead embroidery.

Son Jung Wan always does a pretty and wearable collection each season at NY fashion week.  I wish it was easier to find in local stores.  It is also refreshing not to have to see a collection theme taken literally.  Who needs to see a camel on a catwalk?

photos by Mariana Leung