LV Blog

Women in China have traditionally been associated with the pursuit of beauty. For example, the Confucian scholar Liu Xiang ( c 77-6 BC) wrote “[she] takes delight in one’s appearance” (1). The Chinese word ‘beautiful’ originally meant ‘pleasant to sight’ and is one of the earliest characters inscribed on oracle bones from 16-11 BC. However, standards of beauty have changed significantly throughout Chinese history. From slender to plump and frail to graceful, shifting ideals of feminine aestheticism in Imperial China can be traced through paintings, sculptures and contemporary accounts of women famous for their beauty. Although such women appeared as leading politicians and warriors, it was nevertheless from within a predominantly male-centred society that expectations of femininity were constructed. Conversely, the emancipation of women since the 1920s and increasing globalisation in the twenty-first century have effected further changes in ideals of beauty and fashion in modern China. Read the rest of this entry »

These Peep-Toe “Papillon” Pumps by Etro are just the sweetest, loveliest shoes I have seen! I love that contrast and the choice of sophisticated red and pale, pale green (yes!). I love that they’re made of canvas, and of course I love the suede fringe atop the peep-toe. I even love the shiny purple leather insole!

Marc Jacobs collection spring/summer 2011 fashion show video. New York fashion week.

Until this season’s ready-to-wear showings, clear accessories could be found only in establishments called Scores or Crazy Horse. But, thanks to such high fashion frontrunners as Pucci, Chanel and YSL, there is a window of opportunity for the designer-clad and fully-clothed set to sport the transparent trend. From the Lucite-and-patent-paired platforms at Dolce & Gabbana to the luxe, leather-trimmed totes at Fendi, today’s see-through extras are surprisingly chic and not-so-surprisingly sexy. Just remember- when matching sheer shoes to a peek-a-boo bag, keep your small bills stashed in a wallet. You wouldn’t want to confuse anyone. Read the rest of this entry »