This designer set up a fake modelling agency to launch his new collection

The latest instalment of unconventional ways in which fashion labels offer up their new-season collection comes to you courtesy of London-based designer Steven Tai and art director PZ Today, who have teamed up to launch an entirely conceptual modelling agency for AW19.  

Named the ‘Steven Tailent Agency’ (get it?), the more typical lookbook format is reworked into a totally pre-Y2K-esque agency site complete with fake bios, catalogue-style portfolio shots, and testimonials from happy clients. As well as the ‘high-fashion’ models, there is also a section for those specialising in foot modelling, hand modelling, and a number of photogenic animals, including Cody the dog and Sab the snake.

Unfortunately, if you’re looking to book an actual model, you’re out of luck: clicking on each of the models brings up a different piece from the collection, as shot by photographer Boris Camaca, which you can pre-order by following the link to Tai’s website.

The collection itself will launch in Paris this week, and plays with heavy textiles and construction methods. Examples include the intricate woven detailing on the ‘loom mini skirt’ and ‘loom mini dress’. Elsewhere, sheer glitter materials have been interspersed through the collection via a number of tops and the ‘aaliyah wing dress’. Double breasted trench coats, as seen on model Lilly, with the added twist of a reversible faux fur layer add a heightened sense of luxury to everyday styles. 

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