In the enchanting world of fashion, Sandy Liang‘s Spring/Summer 2024 collection emerges as a delightful ode to the cult-favorite film, Sophia Coppola‘s directorial debut, “The Virgin Suicides” (1999). This cinematic masterpiece not only serves as inspiration but lends its very name to Liang’s latest assemblage of hyper-feminine garments. One can’t help but wonder if the Lisbon sisters themselves might have donned these creations had their tragic fates taken a different turn.
Liang’s creative process for this collection was nothing short of meticulous. She embarked on a journey through time and cultures, studying “similarly-dressed groups of girls and women” who adhered to shared modes of uniform dressing, albeit unofficial. The result? A collection that pays homage to these unspoken dress codes, where femininity takes center stage.
The garden of the Cooper Hewitt Museum served as the picturesque backdrop for the runway, accompanied by the melodious notes of Parker Radcliffe. Liang’s feminine ready-to-wear line featured an array of taffeta dresses, pleated skirts, and delicate bows, adorning both hair and clothing.
A color palette dominated by navy, cream, and icy pink hues was occasionally punctuated by flashes of pale yellow or orange-red, perfectly encapsulating Liang’s signature blend of balletcore and pageantcore. Elements reminiscent of the 1970s emerged in the form of peter pan collars, cropped capri pants, and pant suit jackets stylishly worn as tops.
Yet, Liang effortlessly intertwined these nostalgic details with Y2K-inspired pieces, including graphic tees and the brand’s iconic super-short mini skirts. Models graced the runway bedecked in necklaces and earrings crafted from freshwater pearls and seashells dipped in metal, adding a touch of whimsy to the collection.
Following the triumph of her collaboration with Baggu, Liang’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection reaffirms that her eponymous brand is far from a one-trick pony. It stands as a testament to her inventive, playful, and whimsical approach to women’s fashion, solidifying its status as a cult favorite in the making.