Chet Lo’s SS25 Collection Honors His Mother, Blending Officewear, Playful Spikes, and Artistry.

For his SS25 collection, Chet Lo took inspiration from his mother, Mai-Wah Cheung, a former businesswoman who thrived in a male-dominated industry. This personal connection shaped the collection, which drew heavily from officewear while incorporating Lo’s signature playful, spiked aesthetics. Known for his vibrant and bold designs, Lo took a more subdued approach this season, presenting a surprisingly muted color palette that reflected the professional yet powerful image of a businesswoman like his mother.

Mai-Wah Cheung, as described in the show notes, began her career as one of the first women in Computer Sciences before advancing to become the Chief Information Officer at Univision, a major news network. Later in life, she transitioned into teaching and painting, making her a versatile figure who navigated both the corporate and creative worlds. These dual aspects of her life are reflected in the collection, as Lo skillfully fused elements of the business world with artistic touches that referenced her later career as a painter.

One of the standout features of the collection was the creative and innovative use of Lo’s trademark spikes. Spikes, which have become synonymous with the designer's work, appeared in new, imaginative forms throughout the collection. One of the most eye-catching pieces was a simple grey office shirt adorned with spikes on the outer sleeves. This unexpected and playful twist on traditional office attire encapsulated Lo’s ability to blend the mundane with the avant-garde. The spikes, rather than seeming aggressive, offered a playful contrast to the otherwise business-like pieces, emphasizing empowerment and individuality.

The collection also showcased patterns and motifs that connected with Cheung’s personal journey. A glitchy plaid pattern, reminiscent of the digital world where she first made her mark, appeared in various forms, both textural and printed. This pattern paid homage to her groundbreaking work in technology. Additionally, fruit motifs borrowed from Cheung’s own artworks were used as symbols of transformation and growth, representing her shift from a career in tech to the creative arts. These elements added depth and a personal narrative to the collection, making it a celebration of both Cheung’s professional achievements and her creative pursuits.

Lo’s SS25 collection also highlighted his often-overlooked tailoring skills. While he is known for his experimental textures and eye-catching designs, this collection subtly revealed his ability to craft well-constructed, innovative garments. The trousers in Look 10, for instance, featured a complex folded structure that demonstrated a high level of technical skill and precision. This attention to detail in tailoring added another layer of versatility to the collection, proving that Lo is not just about surface-level aesthetics but also about creating garments with depth and craftsmanship.

The collection overall exuded versatility, blending professional attire with elements of fantasy and art, and offering a range of looks that could appeal to both the bold and the understated. It reflected the complex and multifaceted nature of a modern businesswoman, someone who is not confined by traditional expectations but embraces both strength and creativity in her approach. Lo’s muted color palette and tailored structures provided a sense of sophistication and professionalism, while the playful spikes and artistic motifs added an edge of rebelliousness and individuality.