By : Christian Mosi

Exploring Identity and Sexuality: Allina Liu's Fall 24 Collection

For Fall 24, Allina Liu unveils a collection that delves deep into the intersection of identity and sexuality, brought to life through a collaboration with LA-based artist Leanne Kissinger. With roots in fine art, Liu and Kissinger seamlessly blend their talents to create prints that are not only visually stunning but also rich in symbolism.

At the heart of Liu’s Fall print lies a captivating narrative. A red Shibari rope intricately weaves through organically placed orchids and broken shards of Chinese Ming porcelain. This imagery serves as a metaphor for Liu’s personal journey—a reflection on her Asian American upbringing and her exploration of sexuality within the confines of traditional Chinese culture.

The Shibari rope symbolizes the thread of life, echoing the ancient concept of The Fates, while also representing Liu's quest for self-discovery. The broken ceramics mirror her struggle to reconcile her heritage with her desire for assimilation into Western culture.

Drawing inspiration from Asian artists who challenged societal norms surrounding sexuality, Liu found resonance in the works of Ren Hang and Nobuyoshi Araki. Araki's provocative imagery, featuring women bound with red Shibari rope, particularly influenced Liu's artistic direction.

Embracing the power dynamics inherent in sexuality, Liu incorporates knots and suspension elements into her designs. Models adorned with red ropes in their hair, connected to each other, create a visual tether—a reminder of the interconnectedness of life and an homage to Jordan Peele's film, Us, reflecting Liu's fascination with horror.

In the corner of the presentation, three sisters, untethered from earthly constraints, stand as a poignant reminder of the uncharted territories of identity and sexuality.

Allina Liu's Fall 24 collection at NYFW not only showcases exquisite craftsmanship but also invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of cultural identity and sexual expression. Through her artistry, Liu invites us to embark on a journey of introspection and exploration, where tradition and modernity intertwine in a mesmerizing tapestry of self-discovery.