Taiwanese fashion designer Shao Yen

Copyright Madelaine Triebe

Shao Yen is a designer with many talents. Having studied at Central Saint Martins College in 2003, interning for both Alexander McQueen and Hussein Chalayan, as well as dressing eccentric Icelandic singer Bjork, the 28-year old Taiwanese fashion designer is not unknown to success.
 
His presentation at this weekend’s Vauxhall Fashion Scout was once again a triumphant experiment of shapes and material.
 
In this year’s A/W 12 collection at the Freemasons Hall in Covent Garden, it was all about formal wear inspired by sportier elements. It was British traditionalism intertwined with vibrant youth subcultures. Presenting jackets and trousers in brown checked tweed, blended with decorated wool fur hoods in dark turquoise, Shao Yen introduced the Earl to the London youngster.
 
Presenting his work with models standing impressively still on white podiums accompanied with live classical music, Yen gave the audience plenty of time to soak in the relaxed atmosphere. However, used to the tight schedule of fashion weeks, photographers, friends and journalists hurriedly snapped away on their cameras in what looked like unanimous admiration of his work.
 
His combination of old school tailoring and young comfort between stiff couture and the physicality of sportswear, was perfect for anyone who wants to dress fashionably yet casually athletic for the upcoming London Olympics.