Cesar Gaupo has always been known for his haute chinoiserie chic. Being formerly part of the venerable Shanghai Tang design team, his aesthetic does not stray from the nostalgic but thoroughly modern look of the new Asia.
Vibrant hues play a big role in the collection. Gem-colored silk dresses tempered by more severe black pieces make the entire collection seem like a jewel box of silky confections. His edgy take on modern Asia is shown in an interesting light, almost architectural silhouettes rule the catwalk as if paying homage to the emerging skyline of China. Gone are the constricted collars and vessel-bursting tightness of typical Chinese fashion. Instead the waist is cinched with a thoroughly modern belt or sash fashioned from anything from silk to vinyl. Although it may seem that the looks or the odd color combination here or there, repeat themselves way too many times , what Cesar tries to convey is not an individual look but a symphony of different notes on fabric.
The stark silhouettes may have been misinterpreted with the use of silk, which is not exactly famous for holding form. Thus, the random droopy dress in its magenta ardor cannot be missed. Nevertheless, the message is not lost. Luxury is all about gloss, color and sophistication. A punchline that Gaupo delivers in his coherent collection. Gaupo has been known to celebrate glamour. His inclusion in the tight clique of Shanghai Tang shows its influence.
For one it may be odd or beyond irreverent to pair an electric blue belt with a nude dress. However, one must take in consideration that Gaupo, despite his love for old-school glamour, still has a sense of humor. The colors and shapes are what make this old gilded idea new again. He takes reference from the past and makes it his own with kooky accessories and colors. It is a language of color to be learned.
At the end, Cesar shows how to be a maverick without being an asshole about it. Watch and learn.
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