Shushu/Tong Captivates at Shanghai Fashion Week

Shushu/Tong presented its Fall 2026 collection during Shanghai Fashion Week, garnering attention for its vibrant atmosphere and unique aesthetic. The show, held at the Labelhood venue, was particularly popular with the brand’s dedicated following.

Inspiration from *Violette Nozière*

Designers Liushu Lei and Yutong Jiang drew inspiration from Claude Chabrol’s 1978 film, Violette Nozière, starring Isabelle Huppert. The film, a true-crime art house piece, depicts a teenager’s revolt against her abusive family in the 1930s.

Key Design Elements

The collection reimagined 1930s and 1940s shapes through a hyper-stylized and ultra-feminine lens. A recurring motif was the placement of house handbags hung from a deliberately crooked right elbow, appearing in nearly every look.

Ladylike Silhouettes and Details

The collection featured a range of ladylike pieces, including:

  • Shrunken opaque cardigans
  • Plaid pencil skirts
  • Stirruped knee socks
  • Ruffle-edged gowns in crushed velvet
  • Peter Pan collared swing coats
  • Cutely cut shift dresses

Drop-waisted dresses and skirts, along with abundant bows, were also prominent features, echoing trends seen throughout Shanghai Fashion Week.

Standout Looks and Gender Fluidity

While the full, costume-like ensembles resonated with the audience, the more understated pieces demonstrated the collection’s potential for individual style. Highlights included look 17, a ruffle-seamed track-skirt-suit in washed lemon nylon, and looks 2 and 29, featuring quarter-zip, drop-waisted, pleat-skirted dresses in a deeply colored cotton mix.

Menswear Integration

Several looks showcased the brand’s womenswear designs on male models, including a baby blue track top with shorts. This demonstrated a persuasive application of the designs across genders, expanding the brand’s appeal.

The “Invented Self”

Lei explained the collection’s title, “The Invented Self,” stating it represents “She’s the kind of girl who has her own character outside of the family.” This concept underscores the collection’s exploration of individuality and self-expression.