Posh Uptown Park boutiqueElizabeth Anthony lit up the sky with the Houston debut of Jason Wu's 2023 Spring/Summer Collection at the 7th Annual Go Red for Women Fashion Show.
Fashionistas turned out in droves to catch a glimpse of the designer seated front and center through the entire show – a bold move as designers usually stay in the back until the final walk – and to get the first look at his newest designs.
Fall is a big time for fashion. Designers unveil their latest creations during fashion shows in Paris, New York, Milan and London. Wu, who famously dressed Michelle Obama for two inaugural balls and her recently debuted White House portrait, was no exception. His latest line is full of light and semi-sheer fabrics, along with floral designs from artist Leonardo Pucci, who Wu discovered on Instagram. His collection is the epitome of sophistication and laid-back glamour – very fitting of women's desire for the perfect blend of the two.
Wu's stop in Houston is part of the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women signature campaign to raise awareness that heart disease is women's most significant health threat. Several notable Houstonians took part in the fashion show, including Katherine Whaley, Ursaline Hamilton, Dr. Ruth Bush, Jordan Seff, ShelaghMichael Brown, and Kristina Somerville.
We sat down with Wu to talk about his affinity towards Houston, his latest collection and his love of Texas barbeque.
CultureMap: Why is it important for you to showcase your Spring/Summer 2023 collection in Houston?
Jason Wu: Houston loves glamour. I wanted to focus on highlighting the beauty of the garment's interior through inside-out details, creating a key theme seen throughout the collection. People are dressing up again, and now every moment is a moment and why shouldn't it be? If the last two years have taught us anything, it's that these moments are fleeting, and every second should be celebrated.
CM: What is your connection to Elizabeth Anthony?
JW: We have a long-standing relationship with Elizabeth Anthony, with whom we have partnered on several large-scale philanthropic events. Our values & ideals of fashion & beauty have always aligned with Julie Roberts's dedication to exceptional service to her clients.
CM: Where do you feel Houston fits in the fashion landscape?
JW: Houston is a wonderful and vibrant city. I am always intrigued by the incredible art scene here, and one of my pinch-me moments while visiting was having a private tour of Mrs. de Menil's home.
CM: What can we expect to see regarding colors, textures and visual elements for Spring 2023?
JW: Spring 2023 is an homage to the paired-down glamour of 90's American fashion. I also collaborated with artist Leonardo Pucci on a series of prints based on his photographs of "Shibari Flowers."
CM: Who has been your style icon this year?
JW:Sherry Shi, who is from Houston, is an incredible talent that has been in many of my fashion shows. She is beautiful, vibrant, and an amazing representation of the Jason Wu woman.
CM: Where do you love to eat when you come to Houston?
JW: I am quite the foodie, and I never leave Houston without getting some famous Texas BBQ. My favorites are from Feges BBQ and Truth BBQ.
