Kim Shui’s modern and urban collection brings fun, color, and fantasy to the city streets during a time where social distancing has made many people feel isolated. Her SS21 collections features various models, artists, and individuals who speak their truth about 2020, and it focuses on the important events happening in the world that aren’t getting enough attention in the news and media circuits:
“I saw a video online of a group of trans women being attacked. If I turn on CNN or a major news station, they’re not going to cover Trans women being attacked and murdered, and that really hurts. Trans rights are human rights, so why are we not talking about it?”
Shui pulled her models aside and focused on the way they’re taking care of their mental and physical health during the pandemic, and how their lives have changed in New York – the epicenter of fashion and, at the beginning of the summer, the virus. The powerful street fashion channels the strength and beauty inside of each model, and shows how each individual has taken 2020 in their own hands and persevered through what may be the hardest year of their lives.
Shui’s whimsical and sexy designs feature colorful patterns, high halters, ribbons, and fishnets. Baggy, lime green jackets and loose fitting blazers bring out the masculine and feminine traits in each model, and lace up side cut-outs give the collection an edgy aesthetic. Shui’s use of extra fabric and delicate lace details catches attention, and the way she weaves fabric together and leaves space strategically carves and accentuates the models’ shapes.
“The only thing that’s really making me feel okay is that we’re all in this together.”
Her Spring/Summer 2021 collection is all about fun, power, community outreach, and never giving up; the various testimonials in her collection video speak to the heart and remind us all that each day is a blessing, and there will always be a better tomorrow.
