"Once Upon a Time" in... Claudia Li FW22 Collection

photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta on Feb 16, 2022

written by Kate Hada

Spring Studios has housed creative legends for decades in the Tribeca region of Manhattan. New York Fashion Week successfully hosted various designers during its FW22 season, but none held a candle to Claudia Li. Paying homage to her childhood and Chinese heritage, “Once Upon a Time” is one of many successful collections to come.

Modeled after traditional Chinese silhouettes, Li gives her personal touch by incorporating textures and florals that parallel Zhang Yimou films and ancient Chinese bedtime stories recited by her grandmother. Artist Sam Crow collaborated with Li on the tufted poncho, skirt, coat, and bags. Li’s attention to detail compiled with individual anecdotes translated flawlessly.

Amongst the vibrant, bubble-gum fun energy of Claudia Li's collection, guests dazzled in stylish outfits including pieces from Li’s previous SS22 collection. YouTuber-influencer Ashley aka Bestdressed enchanted the space with soft snow-ready winter wear. Pop band Japanese Breakfast's Michelle Zauner, influencer Lauren Wolfe, and model Mika Benabs floored the room styled in cotton candy-colored complimentary dresses by Claudia Li, with an outfit repeat situation between Wolfe and Benabs. Nonetheless, both women laughed it off and got photographed together. Dancer-singer Asia Monet Ray stunned in a gold and white look, completed with a pearl-beaded handbag, and model-artist Aya Shalkar charmed with a diamond-detailed cobalt coat, black leather bag, and bold red lips. Spring Studios complemented Li’s collection greatly. A giant floor and ceiling windows illuminated the show, accompanied by a whimsical soundtrack. Everything ran smoothly until people rushed backstage to be photographed with Claudia Li herself.

Many indie designers reach a peak that cannot extend further; however, that cannot be said for Claudia Li. Li's hard work and talent reflect her commercial success, and a loyal following stands behind her work, undoubtedly so. Claudia Li’s collection is available for pre-order on February 25th - if you're ready to feel the fantasy, you’ll get in line and place an order.

IMG_9031 (1).jpeg

IMG_9038 (1).jpeg

IMG_9049 (1).jpeg

IMG_9095 (1).jpeg

IMG_9103 (1).jpeg

IMG_9111 (1).jpeg

IMG_9115 (1).jpeg

IMG_9124 (1).jpeg

IMG_9134 (1).jpeg

IMG_9137 (1).jpeg

IMG_9141 (1).jpeg

IMG_9145 (1).jpeg

IMG_9147 (3).jpeg

IMG_9156 (1).jpeg

IMG_9028 (3).jpeg

IMG_9142 (2).jpeg

IMG_9159 (2).jpeg

IMG_9168 (2).jpeg

photographed by Kate Hada

image4 (1).jpeg

image5 (1).jpeg

Ashley aka Bestdressed photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta

photographed by Victoria Huerta

Pop band Japanese Breakfast’s Michelle Zauner dressed in complimentary Claudia Li dress. Photographed by Victoria Huerta

Model and multidisciplinary artist Aya Shalkar photographed by Kate Hada

image7 (1).jpeg

image8 (1).jpeg

Dancer-singer Asia Monet Ray and model Mika Benabs (dressed in complimentary Claudia Li) photographed by Kate Hada and Victoria Huerta

Japanese Breakfast’s Michelle Zauner, Mika Benabs, and Asia Monet Ray sit in front row seats as they wait for the show to begin. Photographed by Kate Hada.

Two guests stand together at the Claudia Li entrance to have their photo taken. Photographed by Victoria Huerta

Influencer Lauren Wolfe and fashion student-turned-influencer Kate Bartlett snap photos of the runway. Photographed by Kate Hada.

A guest poses at the show. Photographed by Victoria Huerta

Lauren Wolfe, Kate Bartlett, and model Taylor Hage pose together for their photo to be taken. Photographed by Kate Hada.

Fashion Bomb Daily’s founding CEO Claire Sulmers and Claudia Li photographed by Kate Hada.

Kate Hada and Victoria HuertaFebruary 20, 2022Comment