Label To Watch: Claudia Li

If you’ve never heard the name Claudia Li until today, chances are you will. With only two NYFW shows under her belt, the young designer has already made a lasting impression. After stints at both Brandon Maxwell and J.W. Anderson, Li finally set out on her own and is quickly gaining buzz as one of the rising stars to watch this year.

For her sophomore presentation, the young designer opted to focus on structural elements, rather than embellishments, along with minimal styling and a simple color scheme. This translated into a collection filled with uniquely modern designs that wrapped around the body. Wide strips of fabric knotted with deep sculptural folds reinterpreted everything from denim to outerwear. And her use of paneling, layering and folding will undoubtedly have us embracing her comfortable, cocoon-like silhouettes come fall.

So after a year of maximalism spreading its glitzy influence across the runways of Gucci et al, it’s refreshing to see a budding new designer embracing the exact opposite this season. Li shys away from flashy fabrics and frills, ensuring that nothing distracts from the artistry seen in her clothes. One thing’s for sure: We can’t wait to see her pieces hit stores.