Shuting Qiu’s collection is often an invitation to explore the work of a strong female artist; for her Spring/Summer 2022 Collection, Shuting chose self-discovery. Drawing inspiration from hometown landscapes and recalling paintings of the beautiful scenery that once surrounded her, the design process became a remembrance of the past and a very intimate exploration of the self.
Romanticized memories of Hangzhou dictated a transitioning colour palette that follow the seasonal changes in the landscapes of her childhood memories. Blues for the ever-changing color of the cherished lake, greens for her beloved meditative forest, oranges and yellows reminiscent of changing autumnal leaves, and pinks, purples and lilacs for treasured flowers.
While Shuting stays true to her brand signatures – a daring, modern romantic combination of prints and patterns – she inserts new softer energy into her classic florals. Blurred recollections of memories are now imbued with “fog” and “rain” making colours appear subdued and opaque. The florals are no longer consolidated; there’s a novel sense of solitude and independence within them.
Shuting Qiu created an identity upon the principle that fashion is an armor to navigate society; in which one does not advance quietly. With her latest collection, she seems to make a more introspective statement, one of quiet strength, one of self-empowerment.