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As the lights dimmed and the head bopping music started, models strutted out in disco-ball inspired pumps, totting puppies on leashes for VAUTE’s first ready-to-wear collection designed by Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart.

The label describes itself to be “a pioneer in sustainable and ethical fashion development,” presenting an entire collection made from vegan materials and focusing on leather, knit, and silk as the main texture palette.

Inspired by the anime story of Sailor Moon, the collection featured feminine pastel hues of lilac and robin egg blue. These brights were mixed and matched with shades of gray, beige, and chambray.

Dramatic shapes of fit and flare complimented the understated details of cool star buttons, delicate heart cut-outs, and adorable miniature cat prints.

The whimsical collection opened with a light purple fitted pea coat paired with a pair of light blue knitted leggings. The looks that followed were equally as playful, featuring swirly skirts, silky blouses, velveteen overalls, and delicately thin knits.

A stand out piece was the white satin long-sleeve fit-and-flare dress with the heart cut-out and detachable bow details, as well as the cobalt velvet military coat with a high collar and star trimmed sleeves.

A few edgier pieces were scattered rather randomly throughout the line of looks. A black coat with gold zipper details and an architectural hood was particular strong.  The menswear line kept to a uniform of fitted trousers, a rugged coat, and a thin turtleneck sweater in shades ranging from white to orange.

The blend of girlishness and masculinity of the pieces were reflected in the make-up, which was described as androgyny meets anime. Think strong brows with a pop of coral and pink in the cheeks. The messy unkempt hair of the female models and high buns of the male models kept it fresh and modern.

“Sailor Moon embodies love and justice. It’s about being courageous,” Hilgart said when asked why she was particularly influenced by the cartoon figure.

Although the collection did end up reflecting both themes of love and justice, the duality made it more incoherent than courageous.

Marina Zheng is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected]