Feminine bags and shoes inspired by the eternal muse of flowers, the romantic rose? Think again. This new capsule collection by footwear and accessories brand CHARLES & KEITH certainly deserves a second glance, as it involves the creative irreverence of cult Shanghai-based designer brand SHUSHU/TONG — so you know these rose-inspired accessories go beyond more than the eye can see.
Designers Liushu Lei and Yutong Jiang have created a limited edition collection of two pairs of bags and shoes that explore the ephemeral beauty of the rose. “Its beauty, prickly complexity and uniqueness are part of the SHUSHU/TONG design DNA,” they shared.
“The rose has become a significant symbol in literature and art, usually representing love and desire. Traditionally, roses only bloomed once a year, which means it was destined to live for a short period of time. A fragile, withering rose exudes fleeting beauty. Sharp thorns line its soft, delicate branches; this danger is a metaphor for the price we sometimes need to pay for love.”
Their atypical approach to the series can be found in the contrasting colours of red and black as well — opposing shades meant to signify passion and sophistication, essentially a battle of contrasts. That said, the SHUSHU/TONG collection still embraces plenty of feminine details, as well as CHARLES & KEITH’s ever-reliable ethos of modern elegance.
These ideas are unified in the Mary Janes for instance, crafted in patent leather and in a style beloved by the footwear brand, where a dainty rose embellishment is offset by a chunky heel, giving the style a slightly retro edge.
For the two handbags in the collection, the black version is crafted from sleek satin with an understated patent rose in the same tone-on-tone shade; on the other hand, the bold red version takes on a vintage-inspired rose pattern on its satin exterior. “The reflective sheen of the materials gives the designs a slight edgy feel, hinting at the mood we wanted to evoke,” they continued.
Both these accessories are made from supple leather and feature a box-like rectangular silhouette with a ribbon-style strap, done just wide enough so the style feels immediately contemporary.
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“We believe that this collection will resonate with those with fascinating, unique personalities — who are not constrained by their daily styles and appreciate a touch of whimsy. The pieces will reveal the quiet elegance and distinct personalities of any wearer,” said the designers.
The SHUSHU/TONG x CHARLES & KEITH capsule collection will be available in selected CHARLES & KEITH boutiques and on CHARLESKEITH.COM from 11 January 2022.
Campaign images, by fashion photographer Zeng Wu Zhang and styled by Liu Xiao.
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