Gauntlett Cheng’s show lived up to its expectations of the title “Happy and Healthy.” Diversity was seen in the audience, models, designs and even the dogs. The brand, originally known as Moses Gauntlett Cheng, was created by a dynamic trio of friends who met as interns working for Eckhaus Latta. As an aspiring underground New York label they’ve earned their reputation for being rebellious, experimental and not afraid to push the boundaries of the modern fashion industry.

Gauntlett Cheng’s Fall/Winter 2018 show transformed the beautiful church on St. Mark to a high end, professional catwalk. Models who walked the show were of different ages, backgrounds, and sizes which displayed the brand’s fresh response to the acceptance of diversity in the modeling and fashion industry. As a starting brand Gauntlett Cheng was already worn by celebrities like Rihanna or featured in the famous Playboy magazine.

From knitted holes in sweaters and skirts to velvet and lace high-waisted pants, there is no simple way to describe the vibrant show. The brand responded well to the popular concept of unconventional layering and the audience could appreciate the subtleties of the olive and beige colors versus the metallic effect of the shiny purple lace. Furthermore, there was a clear resemblance of the brand’s previous work which included for example “the breastfeeding dress” showing two cut out stripes on each side of the chest. When one of the models was asked about the use of dogs in the show, she responded by saying: “The dogs are supposed to resemble their owners.” This is another reason why Gauntlett Cheng is a highly relevant brand, responding to the rising trend of playing dress up with your dog — especially in New York City.  

Overall Gauntlett Cheng presented some new, valuable ideas about the future of fashion, definitely setting itself to be different from their competitors. Through diversifying their team of models it is evident that one does not need to be a model to feel comfortable and look fabulous in their designs.

Email Sarah Teskova at [email protected].