Click for more looks from Ann Yee Spring/Summer 2014.
Branching out from the knitwear for which she is known, Ann Yee’s Spring/Summer 2014 collection, Resurgence, was a perfect balance of trendy and classic. In the presentation at The Highline Loft, the show’s clean white background filled with cinderblocks was indicative of what the designer is known for: contrast.
Each group of models added a new element to the designer’s Detroit-inspired collection. The first introduced the most basic components: knitted dresses with a metallic finish, light sweaters tied to cinch the waist, and pieces that could seamlessly go from street to office. The first look of the presentation featured a grey, professional high-waisted skirt and button down shirt with a layered collar. The look also had a classic Chanel-reminiscent jacket, another staple of the show, with zipper details. Another ensemble featured a knit tank complemented by menswear-inspired trousers, which were the first sign of the trendiness that would be present throughout the show.
The show began to show a more experimental side of the collection with textural contrasts apparent in almost every look. One dress featured leather with a panel of rouge tweed on top while another featured a knitwear tank on top of printed, cropped trousers.
Yee offered a new twist (though perhaps slightly misguided) on menswear with fitted blazers featuring a print of her family photographs which came off less avant-garde than what was probably intended. The print was perhaps the only misstep in a nearly flawless show and more than anything was indicative of Yee’s newfound boldness which was apparent throughout Resurgence.
The juxtaposition between textures and styles that has become a signature for Yee was the greatest asset to the show and to her collection. Elements of her inspiration, the city of Detroit, were present in the metallic nails and fabrics which provided the perfect contrast to the softer styles in the knitwear, jackets, trousers and retro-style, pinned back hair.
The show ended with a look that flawlessly combined each element of the collection. A boat neck dress of white perforated leather was paired with a quilted ivory jacket and perfectly finished with the white, patent leather, pointed-toe D’Orsay shoes worn by every model.
Yee’s show was an effortless contrast of textures and styles. The pieces easily could be presented as everyday wear or high fashion, a difficult line for even the most experienced designer to toe. It was easily apparent in Resurgence why Detroit was the perfect inspiration for Yee: like Detroit, the collection is a combination of old staples and new possibilities that could turn Yee into a major name in fashion.
Bailey Evans is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].
