First, I want to say that I’m obsessed with this show! As a follower of Anna Sui on Instagram, I noticed her posting inspiration photos days prior to the show, particularly clips from old horror films. As a horror lover, I was very intrigued. Then, it was revealed that her fall/winter line would be called “Gothic Vamp” and based on horror films from the 1970s. I basically screamed with excitement! This show was everything I hoped it would be.
If you can imagine Victorian-era vampires listening to Carole King and Fleetwood Mac on repeat – that’s basically “Gothic Vamp”. Anna Sui brilliantly combines the most popular 70s fashion trends that we all know and love with a vampy, edgy twist.
This line featured gorgeous Victorian details, which influenced gothic style and made its way into 70s fashion. Ruffles, lace and corsets added beautiful details to numerous outfits. Several of them featured capelets, puff sleeves and high necklines, which were also common during this era.
The jewelry in this show was to-die-for (lame horror pun). It played a big role in the gothic theme of this show as most models wore intricate lace or beaded chokers that were all black, as well as long strand pendant necklaces. Major vampy vibes! The jewelry kept the theme alive even with outfits that were more 70s heavy.
I especially loved Anna Sui’s ability to include the wide variety of fashion trends that existed in the 70s. During the show, we see trends from the earlier parts of the decade, such as mod styles that continued from the 60s with shift dresses and plaid coats. We also see tons of “flower power” floral prints that ruled the decade along with crochet patterns and bell sleeves. Towards the end, we enter 70s glam with sparkly gowns, jumpsuits, fur coats and velvet.
We mustn’t forget about hair and makeup! The consistent vampy lip and smokey eye were fitting to the theme and didn’t take away from the fashion at all, and the hair perfectly embodied 70s horror films. They truly tied every look together in subtle, yet effective ways!
I’d say the set was simple, especially compared to modern runways that can range from botanical gardens to airport terminals. Throughout the entire show, we viewed blown up drawings of Victorian-era furniture washed in red light. Nothing spectacular, but definitely appropriate to the theme. The music, however, was simply fantastic. It paid homage to the cheesy notes from old horror and sci-fi films. It totally set the mood.
Overall, I absolutely adored this show and every design that was exhibited. But, aside from personal opinion, Anna Sui did a fantastic job at executing her 1970s horror film inspiration by showing us the magic that occurs when light and dark coexist. She took dark, gothic, Victorian details and added them to beloved 70s fashion and it worked. so. welI. I can definitely say I’m excited to see more Anna Sui in the future!