anita_szu-yi_chen-designerAnita Szu-Yi Chen, MFA Knitwear Design, was born and raised in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Chen’s thesis collection explores the dichotomy of appearance and expectations in the construction of clothing. She manipulates her knitwear designs into angular shapes with structured folds, and designed her fabric to be reversible with varying patterns on both sides.

The collection: (1) Layered contrast merino knitted vest over dress (2) Contrast merino top with kid mohair side drape over black knitted skirt (3) Short sleeved merino jacket over black and lilac contrast merino dress (4) Black and red long sleeved merino top over black and red pleated merino skirt (5) Draped black merino dress with white contrast details

This is the 20th Showing of the Academy of Art at New York Fashion Week. This season, the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University selected thirteen 13 students to debut their Spring 2017 collections

“Since our first runway presentation at New York Fashion Week in September 2005, the show has grown in size and in the caliber of those in attendance such as retail executives, designers, recruiters, as well as the national and international media,” said Dr. Elisa Stephens, President of Academy of Art University. “We have always been committed to help launch the careers of our students, and are honored to have a platform of this magnitude to present their work.”

“This season each of designers holds a unique and thoughtful vision,” said Simon Ungless, Executive Director of the School of Fashion at Academy of Art University. “Their collections honor the essence of our industry and carry a conscientious connection to textile design, three-dimensional design, tailoring and construction techniques, they honor the essence of our industry. It has been a pleasure for all of us in the School of Fashion to guide them while preserving their individuality and integrity.”

Photos courtesy of Academy of Art University