We're all winners when a designer decides to team up with a more affordable fashion brand. Especially if said designer is a relative newcomer since it's a great way to be introduced to their creations in such a congested marketplace. Which is why we're super psyched that & Other Stories is linking up with designer Susan Fang.
Calling it a co-lab, the retailer rightfully brags about Fang's uncanny ability to create fantastical, nature-inspired creations using "innovative design techniques." Fang launched her label in 2017. The Central Saint Martins graduate frequently focuses on "perception and mathematics" using innovative materials, colors and silhouettes to craft true works of art. Her approach is definitely making an impression as she was selected for the Forbes 30 Under 30 twice and even considered for the coveted LVMH Prize.
Dubbed Susan Fang & Other Stories Dreams Unleashed, the upcoming collection will feature everything from 3-D floral accessories to organza dresses. According to the designer, "it's a collection that ties nature, dreams and surrealism together through fashion." One of the standouts is the treasure dress that Fang's mother actually helped design.
"It draws inspiration from my deep love for trees," explains Fang. "In my main collection we use a special technique to make flower petals out of organza laser cuts and assemble into a dress, and for this treasure dress, we were able to recreate that effect. The flower print is painted by my mother, and it feels like you're floating in organza flowers as you walk. We decided to make the dress strapless and more minimal, and I think it's perfect for any grand event as well as for daily wear."
Another notable number is the flower necklace. "The necklace is so special as it came from a dream I had about a transparent flower blossoming," says Fang. "I didn't know if transparent flowers exist in the real world, maybe only in a fantasy world. So I felt I had to create one. It became my 3D-printed flower necklace, initially a showpiece, and now we've crafted a less heavy version for & Other Stories, which I love. It's a necklace inspired by dreams and fantasy, rendered in reality."
You'll finally be able to turn your dreams into reality when the collection debuts on Thursday, April 18. In the meantime, sign up for the & Other Stories newsletter to score early access to shop the co-lab. That way you'll be sure to fulfill your sartorial fantasy.
