An Oriental Affair | Grand Mademoiselle Shoe Blog

Monday, December 10, 2007

An Oriental Affair

The Grand Mademoiselle has always been fascinated by the allure of the Orient in old tales; the exotic wisdom, heady perfumes, and the subtle simplicity of an origami paper crane... There is a certain grace and quiet poise associated with this place, evident in the sweeping swish of a geisha's garb, the silent footfalls of a samurai, and the delicate dance of cherry blossoms that swirl in the shadows cast by sublime and daunting snow-capped peaks. As an ode to this storybook East, the Grand M will do what she does best: translate these musings into shoes! The Delman "Midori" is the perfect way to realize a mythical trip to the East within the confines of your favorite haunt. The gorgeous navy satin upper conjures cartloads of brightly colored rolls of silk bound for market, while the light gold snake print detail imparts an ominous reminder that life and death share a tenuous and fragile bond. Quite a lot from a shoe, eh? Good fashion always speaks volumes, and it is our task to pay attention. While searching for something to pair with these exotic flats, consider the shapes, gestures, and tones of the Orient. The Japanese artist Toyokuni I has a fabulous painting that captures the mood of the East and serves to inform the Grand M of the textures, colors, and feelings to evoke with her style. Entitled "A Bored Oiran Awaiting Her Lover" from the series "Having Illicit Affairs", Toyokuni I's painting epitomizes the romantic allure of the mythical East, witnessed by a careless posture, impeccable robes, and dangerously delicate features. While awaiting your lover, consider donning Diane Von Furstenberg's snake skin print dress, shaded in subtle silvers and pale golds, and accented by a ruched bodice, kick-pleated skirt, and slight bubble hem. The lines are clean and simple yet remarkably intricate, suggesting a deep concern with form and an appreciation of quiet luxury. Find your own way to bring a bit of that mysterious and intangible Orient to your closet and walk quietly, confidently, and purposefully. Give a stranger a reverent nod and an irreverent wink, as if you hold a deep secret in your heart that bursts through in your gleaming eyes and the upturned corner of your red lips.

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