Yueqi Qi, the designer behind her eponymous brand, continues to push creative boundaries with her captivating collections. After launching her label in 2019 and debuting her first collection at Shanghai Fashion Week in Spring/Summer 2020, Qi has consistently captivated the fashion world with her unique vision. Her Fall/Winter 2023-24 collection, held in the retro-inspired setting of Seibu Coffee Shop in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, was a testament to her ability to weave together diverse inspirations and create a truly compelling narrative.
This season’s theme, “GILDED SPEED,” draws inspiration from the contrasting qualities of forged iron and iron grilles. Forged iron, with its intricate, handmade details and strength, serves as a metaphor for couture, while mass-produced, functional iron grilles represent the essence of sport. This duality forms the foundation of Qi’s latest collection, which masterfully blends these seemingly disparate elements, resulting in a new, captivating MIX style.
The runway show, held in a dynamic track space within the National Stadium parking lot, began with a vibrant burst of red lighting, transitioning into a radiant glow. The music, pulsating with energy, set the tone for a captivating spectacle. The first look featured a sheer uniform as its centerpiece, adorned with intricate lace, ribbons, and the brand’s signature chain designs. The collection played with transparency, creating a sense of lightness, while the intricate embroidery and layered textures evoked a sense of fantasy. A close look revealed heart-shaped lace adorned with the kanji character for “love,” offering a glimpse into Qi’s dedication to handcraft and meticulous design. This heart motif, an iconic symbol in Qi’s work, appeared throughout the collection, most prominently in designs that emphasized the chest area. From bodices and bras to T-shirt prints, the heart design was incorporated with a variety of techniques, showcasing different interpretations of love.
Among the standout elements of the collection were the collaborations with UGG and Adidas. The second iteration of the UGG collaboration featured a new take on the “Classic Mini Dripper” silhouette. The chunky platform design was embellished with Qi’s signature heart logo and modular system, adding an element of opulence. Inspired by cowboy boots, the collection also introduced flower-patterned leg warmers crafted from laser-cut leather. These leg warmers feature snap buttons, allowing for customization and personalization.
The Adidas collaboration played a crucial role in elevating the collection’s sporty aesthetic. The iconic trefoil logo and three-stripe design were incorporated into functional materials, elevated with the addition of tulle and Qi’s modular system. This fusion perfectly embodies the collection’s theme, blurring the lines between couture and athleisure. The integration of a mini skirt over low-waisted pants further demonstrates Qi’s commitment to incorporating sporty elements as not just functional components, but also as visually stimulating design choices.
The show culminated with a grand finale, featuring all the models converging on the runway in a powerful display. Yueqi Qi, known for her profound connection with her craft, shared her philosophy: “Clothes are music for the skin.” This sentiment resonated throughout the show, where the interplay of intricate embellishments, the architectural forms created through lace and braids in the hair, and the weight of the garments themselves combined with the energetic music to create a truly immersive experience, leaving audiences feeling uplifted and inspired.
The show served as a reminder of Qi’s previous interview, where she reflected on her motivation: “Perhaps my biggest motivation is the desire to escape from my immediate surroundings. It might sound like a skewed idealism, but I believe this escape can sometimes bring about a brighter future.” Her words resonated with the audience, offering a glimpse into the profound thought and artistry that inform her designs.
