Oxford Fashion Studio II Brings Talent, Whimsy

The Oxford Fashion Studio II showcase stunned with swoon-worthy styles from an array of talented rising designers. Since 2009, the collective has put a spotlight on up-and-coming artists, and this year’s Fall/Winter presentation proved momentous.

Size-inclusive brand C’est D by Doyeon Yoni Yu opened the show with a colorful yet wearable collection. C’est D displayed its signature whimsical pastels, but this season also boasted menswear-inspired tweeds and contrasting lapels.

A standout jumpsuit with grey printed pants and a white and black halter bodice brought much applause. The ‘Shinaburo’ collection by C’est D, named after the ancient word for ‘little by little,’ addresses the slow erosion of unrealistic body image norms. Thanks to Doyeon Yoni Yu and her latest pieces, anybody of any size can look fabulous this fall.

Out of Order followed next, providing a streetwear commentary on law enforcement, prison reform, and consumerism. Male and female models donned sweatsuits with police patches and correctional facility labels, with one ensemble even accessorized by a bag of fries with the slogan “I’m killin it” on the back of the outfit. The “Purge”-like vibe of the collection emphasized political statements (“Guns kill people”) while still remaining chic. The finale piece–an orange quilted prison jumpsuit–garnered much applause.

Next, Delayne Dixon lit up the runway with her oh-so-sexy intepretation of winter wear. The Boundaries by Dixon collection mixed lush faux furs with liquid metallics and latex vinyls to create intoxicatingly sleek looks. An electric blue tone tied the collection together, culminating in a minimalistic chic dress with a black triangular pouch purse strapped behind.

Icy sparkling metals and faux fur detailing blended hard and soft details– literally. The dichotomy of texture elevated each look; a standout pairing of a marbled grey top with dyed faux fur cuffed sleeves and deep metallic trousers with a skirt overlay fluttering behind left the audience yearning for more. Designer Delayne Dixon walked alongside the final piece, a black dress with the bosom left fully exposed as the model proudly wore “x”s to cover herself. Viewers were left lusting after the tastefully demure looks.

The Oxford Fashion Studio II show concluded with Pheren Soepadhi’s avant-garde take on bridal couture for Pheren Couture. The Los Angeles designer named her Fall/Winter collection “Lacrismosa,” a nod to the magical transformations of birth, wedding, and death. Lace and crystal masks covered each models’ mouth as each dress was adorned with lace leaf appliqués. The collection featured sheer mesh materials, adding an ethereal element to the designs. The stunning finale piece–a nude-hued top and skirt with white lace details–was red carpet ready.

A special presentation by eco-friendly brand Quaint followed the Oxford Fashion Studio II showcase. Quaint epitomized ready-to-wear with its innovative update on the pajamas-for-day trend, providing a deconstructed take with an asymmetrical off-the-shoulder silk black pajama jumpsuit with white piping. Two-tone coats and wool capes over drawstring sequin shorts proved genius for fall.

Models wore lightly crimped hair and dark cat-eye mascara for a powerful look. Zipper detailing and unique slit placement on coats elevated the collection, as each outfit was paired with either white patent leather pointed toe booties or snakeskin mules for full fall style.