[modillustr]

Model: Ling Tan, Illustration ©modillustr/bi-aru 2007
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
The Zang Toi Charity Fashion Show to Benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation
Chinoiserie Garden was the latest collection to grace the runway by New York based designer Zang Toi. The unconventional being a true mark of inspiration for the Malaysian born designer, hundreds flocked to view the collection at the alternative destination of Bo Concept--the contemporary furniture showroom. Paving the way for a full evening of celebration***for Mr. Toi, and support for the Lance Armstrong Foundation, the kick-off runway show beckoned a sense of beauty, elegance, and simplicity.The show was a well-crafted mixture of the Toi House Collection, as well as Mr. Toi's latest couture pieces. However, the selections that dazzled the viewers were the delicate garden inspired gowns such as the De Gournay hand painted Chinoiserie Garden strapless that opened the show. Mr. Toi's use of De Gournay, a company traditionally specializing in 18th Century Chinoiserie, and 19th Century French designs, transports us to a different place in time; while still maintaining an air of modernity. The De Gournay pieces contain soft subtle hues accentuated by tree branches and floral blooms, a perfect representation of Chinoiserie.
The collection progresses from the traditional to the modern with standout silk dresses in English Yellow and Pink Ombre. The English Yellow cap sleeve jewel neck tunic with silver beaded lovebirds, a silk/wool/cashmere blend, and matching English Yellow silk organza floor length pleated skirt is not only eye-catching, but also quintessentially modern. This is a functional look that is classic and timeless, and can be worn by any woman of substance. Another standout--the series of Pink Ombre silk mousselines are equally as stunning providing a sexy, sophisticated burst of color that radiates beauty. This series of gowns incorporate the signature couture accents that Mr. Toi is known for, namely flowing floor-length gowns complete with detailing of satin bows, ribbon darts, and butterflies. Most notable was the Pink Ombre silk mousseline draped one shoulder gown with Chinoiserie butterflies.
The show closed with looks from the Peonies Garden series. The pieces represent the height of society and sophistication, and to draw an analogy--are sure to enjoy a long bloom period much like the peony flower itself, BRAVO!
***- the celebration was attended by notables such as Singer Mya and Ballerina Irina Dvorovenko witha special performance by the legendary Patti Labelle
article : thequestforit.com

Other sites to see photos :
BeautyNewsNYC.com » Team Toi Proves To Be A Tour de Force
Zang Toi Charity Fashion Show to benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation at BoConcept in Manhattan on 9-5-07. all photos by Rob

[SomethingElse]

Thanks, modillustr. I love the illustration! I had not heard of Zang Toi so here's what I found out.

Quote:

Born to an ethic Chinese family in Kelantan, Malaysia (Jun 11, 1961), Zang Toi immigrated to the U.S. when he was 20 to attend the Parsons School of Design where he graduated with a BFA in Fashion Design in 1984. After graduation, he trained under Mary Jane Marcasiano and Ronaldus Shamask, and 5 years later, in 1989, he launched his eponymous label with a modest collection of bright sarongs, strong suits and regal dresses, he opened his own atelier. His unique color sense that brought the tropical colors of Asia on the runway translated to exuberance in his designs that quickly captured the attention of the New York fashion elite. In 1990, Zang Toi won the Mouton-Cadet Young Designers Award, which was established by Baroness Philippine de Rothschild to recognize new talent. On March 30, 1997, the King of Malaysia presented him with his Knighthood, with the title Bentara Seri Kelantan. And in October 2002, the Malaysian-born designer was recognized by the International Center of New York, an organization dedicated to the advancement of immigrants for Toi’s achievements and contributions. In his acceptance speech for his award from the International Center, Zang Toi said, "Lastly, to every immigrant who came here to pursue the "American Dream"... always dream big! If a small town Kelantanese boy from Malaysia can make it here, you too, with hard work, discipline and determination can also achieve great success and happiness." One of the most sought-after designers in New York and clothier to celebrities that include Sharon Stone and Ivana Trump, Zang Toi embodies the American dream. He has two signature lines, Zang Toi and House of Toi, both of which are sold at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and specialty boutiques in the U.S and around the world. Zang Toi also has freestanding stores in his native Malaysia.

This is from the Chinoiserie Garden collection. Butterflies seem to be appearing more frequently now. I wonder if the recent butterfly exhibit at the Natural History Museum in NYC has inspired people!



fashionwindows.com . thequestforit.com

[bluedolphin]

more pixs?

[happyguy]

i love his work!!! i worked for his brother back in malaysia...never had a chance to see Zang himself tho... can't believe lot's of ppl have never heard of him...he's dressed sharon stone, eva longoria, devon aoki....i love his style and fit.