NYFW SS25: TAOTTAO Interview

New to the scene, Taottao made a plaid-laden splash earlier this year at NYFW AW24’. Publications such as Vogue Runway, Harper’s Bazaar and Wonderland had a lot to say about the burgeoning designer and her 70’s cartoon inspired collection. A brand dreamt up by a self-proclaimed introvert, these garments would lead you to believe their creator is anything but. 

Taottao made its second appearance at NYFW with the upcoming SS25’ collection at an all-day press event which took place at Untitled, 3 Freeman Alley. The Press Day allowed those in attendance direct hands-on access to the clothes, all the while models walked the space showcasing the garments off rack. As NYC began settling into the evening, a cool breeze washed over the outdoor space creating a laid back, yet intentional way of interacting with the brand’s newest ready-to-wear collection. 

A callback to child-like playfulness, these works were designed to do the talking, so the wearer doesn’t have to. Moreso than this - they’ve been crafted to emulate iconic tv cartoon characters. Muted, grown-up colour palettes appeared in the debut collection, set in with heart cutouts and exposed skin. Carefully layered lace complimented distressed denim in unique washes of sage green and sea-foam blue, mesh plaids were paired with baby pink faux furs. 

I was curious to see the development of Taottao’s creative vision after reviewing her previous works. What I found was in-part, a recurring theme that steeped into the SS25’ season. Heart motifs you’d effortlessly find in your mother’s cookie cutter collection adorn many of the works. Inspired by the ocean and naturally occurring patterns found on seashells, this collection featured quintessential plaid fabrics which we see uplifted by lightened colour palettes with interweaving lace-up detail and soft-touch fabrics.

Mesh inserts peeked behind clasp back bodices. Asymmetrical pleated skirts with raw hemlines flirted as they near-kissed the floor. Multi-coloured plaid lace created interweaving diamond cutouts across garments. Diligently placed boning created grandiose spiral shapes that lifted off of the body and extended the wearer's influence over their environment. Metallic fabrics flowed across hard seam lines with interlocking bronze and silver fashionings. The same plaid lace was utilised to craft gloves and leggings. Leather and canvas shoulder bags mimicked features akin to manta rays, while internal lining fabrics were archetypal Taottao plaid. 

After speaking with some of the models and reviewing the presentation, we interviewed Designer Yitao to learn more about her signature style and further details about the inspiration behind these garments. 

What’s the creative concept behind these works? 

“I graduated from FIT in 2021. The fall / winter 24’ series was our first collection. This collection being the second of our ready-to-wear series, these works were inspired by office beachwear. 

Specifically, sitting at the desk, having daydreams about vacation. Colours are light, playful, and fun while silhouettes are inspired by swirling seashells. Stripes and ribbed features are drawn from sea creatures. Plaid & lace textiles are common. Office wear materials create a contrast.” 

The plaid materials are a common theme amongst the previous collection and your current works. What about that pattern grabbed your attention? 

“I love mixing colours, almost to create a comedic feeling. Happy energy - not too serious.” 

There is a pair of grey toned trousers that caught my attention in particular. Primarily as they have many multi coloured and layered drawstrings which pull the eye. Can you tell us a little bit more about this garment in particular? 

“I had this vision of starfish on top of each other. I liked the colour and patterns layered together. This inspired the work.”

Inspiration behind the footwear in particular? 

“The platform style shoes are last season’s silhouette, gold toned. Additionally we utilised a slip on ballerina style to not be as restraining, more relaxed.”

What piece of advice would you give your younger self before you knew all of this was possible? 

“Do not hold back. Just push yourself to take a step, you’ll be surprised where things lead you.”

Taottao’s SS25’ collection is a celebration of the places daydreaming can lead us. However temporarily stagnated at our desks, our clothes need not be one dimensional. Nostalgic colourways present themselves via cutouts, mesh overlays, metallic materials, all the while seemingly presenting new reflections of corset structures. This collection is wearable, layerable and clearly suited to both casual and more sophisticated occasions. 

The collection is an homage to daydreams that engulf us as we often find ourselves sitting in a stagnant state at an office desk. This is where we find whimsical, otherworldly elements of glitter and sea creature inspired patterns and textures combined with practical materials that you’d find in professional office environments. Thick sponge-like belts imitate seaweed whilst grouped materials created visuals which nodded to ocean reefs, driftwood, and sea glass. 

Neutral base colours of grey, taupe, tan and copper amiably complement bright greens, pinks, lavenders and purples. This was a beautiful collection. Often I find that with many contrasting elements, there lacks a sense of cohesion. In Taottao’s case, I’d be hard pressed to find any two pieces that don’t directly complement the other. Taottao’s sophomore collection is a noteworthy one, full of life, a little humour and myriad styling opportunities.