Photography by Naho Kubota
Words by Moni Briones
If Taiwanese porcelain dolls could come to life and flirtatious evening dresses had heartbeats, then they would more than likely be kin to Orange.
Orange, an incognito label for women based out of Queens, is designer Angela Chen’s take on whimsical with a wave of sophistication. Despite being less than a year old, Orange holds more thought about shape than a thousand A-line dresses and politely reflects the next realm of design: sexy.
“I love to design with a sexy aesthetic and details are important in doing so,” notes Chen. She’s damn right.
Chen developed her current collection pulling much of its inspiration from her youth in Taiwan as well as junior years in Vancouver. Now happily planted in New York with her days at Parsons behind her—Chen pulls creativity from simple living and claims that she is a “day to day designer” who relies on the city to be her muse.
When you see the Orange, it’s easy to understand her intent. Hand knit accents (many by Chen herself) and pipeline details, give each design a noteworthy Broadway praise. Many pieces encompass a mix of sequence and yarn reminiscent of the late 60’s when Gucci was hot and Fendi was re-born.
Tube dresses, slinky kimonos and cut outs enthrall the collection, adding a couture club feel to this fresh design house. And aside from this is, alas, Chen’s strong point, constructions of etiquette. Such fabric assault stems from her practical side as a thriving artist.
“Being a designer is an investment process. I do not feel restricted in designing or feel the need to compromise as a designer…I intend to grow season by season”.
Thankfully we will be here to witness the next.
Styled by Meagan Camp
Hair by Marcel Dagenais
Makeup by Miako Kitamura
Model: Imogen at Supreme
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