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TADASHI SHOJI SPRING 2012: "The Tulip Anthology"

words/images Judith Ecochard

Garment Center. NYC

The LA based/Japanese born Tadashi Shoji is one of those fashion veterans who delivers special occasion dresses for a devoted client base.

That was obvious to us when we attended the RTW show during the most New York Fashion Week---the collection of which was inspired by the rich colors, unique petal markings, and delicate blooms of tulips.  

One shoulder dress with petal detail


There were plenty of devoted customers in the audience---who probably never read what any of the fashion critics opine. Why should they...desiring feminine, graceful gowns and cocktail length frocks...they know who to turn to without needing any dictates.



Our re-see at the Tadashi Shoji showroom really gave us a chance to admire the refined collection, the standout fabrics-and intricate details---including hand painted silk linen, festive layers of taffeta, delicateembroidered lace, frothy layers of tulle over hand cut floral appliques, and wonderfully draped silk chiffons.
Black/Nude Tulle and Metallic Embroidered Lace 




Hand painted silk linen striped boatneck dress




Draped tulle layered over hand cut floral applique




A bit of une belle jeune fille for many of the petal shaped dresses...an example- pictured below- with a boatneck of ruched tulle and silk that resembles a bouquet of flowers...








Many of the dresses we saw---including these fitted sea blue frocks---constructed on a bias so as to flatter the slim and the not so slim---were not in the runway show.

Blouson silhouettes

Glittery beaded gowns in shimmery, soft metallic colors 





And the dresses that were---really require close inspection to admire the made-by- hand-craftsmanship.



Draped tulle overlay hand cut floral applique







For grand entrances and exits floral print, one shoulder, silk chiffon gown

No surprise-the extensive bridal collection by Tadashi Shoji is very popular too...and price accessible. One look pictured below...













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