Recently, I have been noticing that fashion designers are looking to other cultures for inspiration. Though this isn't new, more than ever (I think) designers and people are being more open to the beauty and art of others. For years now, we have been seeing various trends, such as the "tribal" "exotic" or "ethnic" look in the pages of big-name magazines. Though I don't really like any of those terms, I do appreciate the appreciation of cultures. Yes, many perhaps have no idea where the inspiration comes from, but I think it's a starting point. One thing that does bug me is that many times cultures and peoples are romanticized through fashion, such as the Gypsy trend romanticizing the Roma. We see Hollywood starlets, singers, and other famous people saying they have a "Gypsy Heart" or people running around wishing they were Gypsies when they have no idea what a Gypsy is or their history. (Anyway, I'll save this for another post)
I do believe though, that this is an opportunity for all of us to learn some culture and history about others. Since my childhood, I've been obsessed with cultures and music. When I was in elementary school, while kids were listening to pop music on the radio, I was listening to the African radio show, the Brazil hour, and watching Indian videos. Maybe I was a strange child, but the point is, I've been the same since. I tried emulating the styles of Bollywood stars, go to the African stores to buy fabric, or Chinatown for clothes. As an adult, I've toned things down and fortunate me...these things are in vogue. YES!
This is why I call my "fashion sense" nomadic. I jump from one culture to another because they are all beautiful! Why stick to today's trends when there are so many beautiful things out there? Or why try to fit yourself into a trend when it may not even look good on you? Fashion for me is like wearing art. I see myself as a canvas, not only to display art, but also it displays a lot of who we are as people, whether adventurous, quiet, loud, artsy, etc.
Anyway, found some nomadic inspiration for all you nomadic souls! enjoy...
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| Armani La Femme Bleue collection, via: thenonblonde.com |
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| Givenchy, autumn/winter 2009/10 colletion, via: fashion.telegraph.co.uk |
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| junya watanabe spring summer 2012 |
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| Vogue Germany |
Mexican style decor is a fusion of all its cultural influences just like it's people. When my husband and I went on our honeymoon to Xcaret, we walked around our hotel and one thing that caught our eye were the colors.You'll find Spanish tiles, even hints of Morocco, and colors galore! I love it.
