Xander Zhou reveals his new generasian for AW17

[X]ander Zhou’s AW17 invitation was printed with an image by photographer Ren Hang. The subject suspended like an acrobat but red cloth turned out to be a decoy. 

What they said: “We are young, but we are no longer children. We have grown up. We have come to understand ourselves. First by looking at others, because it was easier than looking at ourselves. That journey provided us with a frame of reference. It taught us about our identity in relation to others. It taught us about our position in the world. and the position of Asia in the world. We are the new generasian.”

Our verdict: The new generasian are clad in apocalyptic designs – elbow-length gloves, military inspired outerwear, rain boots boots and rubberised macs. To an abstract soundtrack complete with incomprehensible murmurs and hysterical laughter, Xander Zhou’s AW17 boys stomped along dressed for an epidemic or a nuclear war, like the survivors in a Scandinavian horror film. Some looked like the interruption had come while they were at work or in the lab with hints at uniform with narrow, cropped trousers and plimsoll style shoes throughout. Others looked more prepared, carrying mysterious toolboxes under their arms and wearing the gloves and macs that had all the hallmarks of protective wear. Cropped shirts and t-shirts were also notable with the press release teasing ‘you’d better work on those abs!’ 

Best moment: The show finale, when Xander’s AW17 was fully realised.

Who walked: Professors, security guards, military men – a diverse troupe of boys (including London rogue Sonny Hall). Some donned cropped hair with silver teeth and others with slicked back manes. 

Check out the full collection in the galley below.