Asian Inspired Looks...

This year, one of the truly "new" trends on the catwalks, i.e looks that haven't been recycled, displayed a serious love for all that is Asia's rich, stunning fashion history.  When it comes to Western style, most fashionistas have seen it before: pencil skirts, leather, leopard, denim.  But some designers went in the direction of something unexpected with their modern take on old style.  Stunning embroidery, plays on shape and proportion, colors, and femininity that is outlined rather than laid bare for all to see.  Whether Chinese, Japanese, or another Asian country, the inspiration was clear and the fashion world took notice.  Here are some of my favorite looks to get you inspired.


Flight of fancy...birds are highly revered in Asian culture, both in art and clothing design.  Pick up an item with a bird motif and you'll be channelling Asian style.




Art lesson...Asian art has a rich tradition of incredible skill level, centuries of development, and beauty.  A fabric printed with one of these classic Asian media (like watercolor) is another way to go.



The way of the Samurai...if you've never seen a Samurai Warrior's uniform, go ahead and give it a google.  You'll quickly be able to see the reference in these Proenza Schouler looks.  The transition from fierce warrier to 21st century womenswear is nothing short of amazing.




Another Samurai inspired look...




Embroidered emperor...this look calls to mind royalty.  For it was only the ruling class and Imperial House that could afford colorful detailed embroidered pieces like these.  Done by hand in the days of the Emperors, Asian embroidery is truly a work of art.  If you see anything resembling it, pick it up and don't let it go!




Flower girl....sometimes just a print can call to mind an entire national culture.  The print on this dress is reminiscent of flora native to Asia and is seen in cultural artwork and design.  And now in ours too, thanks to Jason Wu.




Mandarin influence....the Mandarin collar is a classic Chinese design.  The Mandarin collar dress speaks to a peek-a-boo idea of sexiness.  Show your shape without showing your skin and you've got mystery, class, and subtlety in your hands.




Cultural reference...Chrysanthemums (or mums) are a major part of Asian culture.  Both the Chinese and Japanese frequently used them in art and both have a holiday in which the mum serves as symbol.  These flowers were thought to represent perfection.  I agree!  Could this dress be more perfect?




The Kahn....Asia, of course, doesn't only refer to Japan and China.  Mongolia is also considered part of the continent.  And that's exactly what I thought when I saw this Rag & Bone look.  Shaggy, long fur, dark colors, and a rustic flower pattern on sleeves and boots are a dead ringer for the rulers of Mongolia's nomadic peoples.




Golden...another major motif in Asian art and design is the golden sun.  Golden painted and embroidered tapestries and clothing were common enough amongst the very wealthy.  Zac Posen adds gold to great effect in a jacket whose sleeves remind us of Kimonos.




Obi One...the history of the Geisha is often misunderstood by Westerners, but one thing we can relate to is waist definition.  The thick belt, known as the obi, on a classic Kimono is something we can add to any of our own looks.