SANKUANZ’s Chapter 6, titled “Dancer in the Void,” presented during Paris Fashion Week, is inspired by the mystical and complex nature of the Dakinis, deities revered across various Asian cultures. These beings represent dual aspects of beauty and terror, combining compassion with destructiveness. This season, SANKUANZ harnesses these contrasting attributes to explore themes of personal freedom and the multifaceted nature of self. By following the Dakinis’ silent grace and formidable wrath, the collection forms a narrative that intertwines the ethereal with the tangible, questioning what fashion can express about identity and power.
Tailoring is a focal point in this collection, where SANKUANZ reimagines traditional Western silhouettes alongside oversized, wrapped garments characteristic of various Asian traditions. This amalgamation results in a play on proportions seen in suits, jackets, and workwear pieces. Elements such as crossed collars, hip-hugging belts, and voluminous sleeves give classic garments elements from different cultures. An innovative detail where collars extend down the sleeve to finish at the cuff mimics the flow of wrap shawls.
In terms of fabric and prints, the collection introduces a robust denim theme, accentuated by unfinished hems and a sleek nylon finish that mimics traditional denim textures. This choice is a base for more luxurious materials like silk jacquards and taffetas that recall Chinese brocade, creating a rich textural contrast. These are juxtaposed with subtle Asian motifs and bold Western plaids, along with SANKUANZ’s signature camouflage print, showcasing a fusion of eastern and western design elements that speak to a global audience.
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Jewelry within the collection is also a narrative element that carries symbolic significance. Earrings, bracelets, and armbands feature decorative fangs and claws that represent the inner demons associated with the Dakinis, echoing themes of hidden strength and ferocity. The use of traditional knotting techniques in creating oversized gold-plated necklaces and earrings, and particularly a pendant shaped like a dagger’s hilt made from clustered horse-eye gems, reinforces the collection’s mystical and ritualistic inspirations.
The shoe and bag designs continue the theme of mixed aesthetics that SANKUANZ is known for. The iconic ‘Dagger Boots’ have evolved, merging with sneaker bodies to create a hybrid that challenges traditional footwear categories. Alongside high heels and boots, the collection introduces a new ‘boho bag,’ available in suede or translucent materials, detailed with the distinctive dagger motif. These pieces extend the ‘Dagger Bags’ line, establishing it as a signature element of the brand.
Collaboration plays a crucial role in the presentation of the collection, particularly through the partnership with experimental musician Wang Fan. Their project, Amandalaom, provides a hauntingly evocative soundtrack for the show, following the themes of the collection. This collaboration is not merely auditory but a profound attempt to connect the present human experience with historical eras. Take a closer look at the collection in the Gallery below:
this was sublime! I am long time fan of Sankuanz
these are incredible! I am a complete fan of Sankuanz!