Taiwan's first lady, Chow Mei-ching, appeared on National Day wearing a dress by a young Taiwanese designer.
The knee-length fitted black dress was the work of 24-year-old Austin Wu, who was the only designer from Taiwan to present a collection at New York Fashion Week in February.
The dress featured a boat neckline, half-length sleeves and a pink and green floral pattern curving upward from the hemline. In keeping with her low-key style, the first lady wore no jewelry or other accessories.
Sources say Chow will wear another Wu design at a reception later in the day which will take place at Taipei Guest House. It’s part of her efforts to give greater exposure to emerging Taiwanese designers.
Austin Wu established his own brand Austin W. in 2011. The brand’s Facebook page describes the collection as featuring simplicity and the neutral futuristic color of gray. His designs have been showcased in fashion weeks in Tokyo and Beijing, and worn not only by local celebrities, but also by Lady Gaga.