Death by Handbags: Visiting the Amsterdam Museum of Handbags and Purses

You know that feeling when you have to touch something such as clothes on rails or the fur of an animal. Well the Tassen Museum Hendrikje (Museum of Handbags and Purses) in Amsterdam was exactly that. Being surrounded by exquisite one-of-a-kind hand wear may sound quite a bore but believe me, it was magical. Even one who is not that enthusiastic regarding attire would enjoy this because every single handbag was unique and differed from the rest providing both an historical essence and a feeling of attraction towards the item. Vivienne Westwood, Chanel, Orla Kiely, Bottega Veneta and many more well-known designers ranging from the 1400s to the present day all exhibited in opulent glass shelves.

Placed upon an idealistic Dutch street in Amsterdam, the museum began through an avid handbag collector called Hendrikje Ivo who found her fascination amongst the year of 1820 when she discovered a leather handbag with tortoiseshell capping near Norwich, England, of which she then went on to uncover its history thus did the same for her future handbag purchases. Around 75 years on, the museum currently speculates 4000 handbags that all have compelling disparate origins.

Firstly I came across this beige velvet bag created in 1550-1570 with rose detail that we all know, is still used today. The bag is part of the Rothschild Collection and was used by both women and men which they attached to a belt as there was a lack of pockets during the 1500s. Overall, the hand attire would have been viewed as advanced clothing back then due to its strong iron clasp and variety of hidden locks. Focusing on uses, bags in those days were frequently used for carrying coins, the bible and alternative personal requirements.

Next is this range of coin purses from the 1700s which obviously conveys the century’s allure with embroidery, mainly being flowers alike to the previous handbag. Personally, I adore the draw string locks as they provide dimension rather than a flat surface. Not only were these pouches used for carrying personal belongings but they also acted as an ostentatious carrier of expensive perfumes called ‘sweet bags. These sweet bags would then be reused as pretty carriers of money that would be given as New Year’s gifts towards royalty; moreover the bags would be placed upon attire to maintain a distinct aroma of perfume which was viewed as a high-class action. Alternatively, pouches were used as gaming bags for chips. These specifically consisted of a flat bottom to aid the purses in standing upright. Decorated at the surface was usually a family coat of arms therefore the players could easily distinguish their own pouch. Almost every Dutch woman tended to wear their bags upon harnesses, chatelaines or belts similar to the 1400s. 

Amid the 1800s, craftsmanship progressed greatly starting with the use of silk reticule however ending with the popularity of leather fabric attire. This was mainly a root from the French Industrial Revolution meaning that items were made more efficiently thus larger quantities of each product could be made at a quicker rate. As a result the pinpoint of handbags was made: the reticule. The reticule  was a pouch with either a cord or chain (corresponding to the classic Chanel Chain Bag), of which the term ‘reticule’ originated from the Latin word reticulum defining a miniature women’s mesh bag used during the times of the Romans. Another consequence of the French Industrial Revolution was the increase in transport and wealth generating a brand new market of carrying attire decorated with images of individual locations often bought to bring home to friends and family as a souvenir. Bringing the 1800s to a final was the popularity of leather handbags and purses. Quite peculiarly they were attached to a metal ring and worn upon the wrist to carry purses, diaries and train tickets. Above all, I regard the 1800s as being a major pinnacle in handbag and purse development considering that the base of mode, Paris, went through an Industrial Revolution. 

Forwarding on to the 1900s, this century saw leather handbags change from basic leather to leather with added element using features such as shimmering metallic and textured beads. For example, colours other than beige and black were implemented upon leather. One hand garment at the museum was a sophisticated lilac evening bag with enamelled adornment in gold from France in 1915 conveying the sense that women began to have particular bags for the day and evening, of which day bags were most commonly briefcases and satchels, whereas evening bags involved pouches with a larger amount of decoration rather than one set colour and print. Not only did leather become vastly successful but also glass beads mainly from the Czechoslovakia, Germany, France, Italy and Austria. These beads would be organised to display flowers, landscapes and historical scenes in a theme of art deco and orient. Furthermore, I saw a synthetic lucite bag which resembled that of glass. With a mahogany shade and structured design, it was one of my favourites contained in the exhibition for the reason that despite the formal shade, the gloss of the product made it appealing thus I believe the designer (which was not stated) to have been very intelligent and creative. Moreover, hand garments corresponding to this bag of that age all came together to inspire box bags seen today, for instance the plastic Chanel clutch and the cube shaped handbags Alexa Chung constantly wears. 

Finally arriving in the 21st century, the time we all know too well. Here was an array of designer names that dominantly made their mark on the external of the handbag. Think the Louis Vuitton ‘LV’ print and Vivienne Westwood’s signature crown jewels logo centring the product in an opulent pre-eminence of gold. Besides these, the one I found most preferable and surprisingly my mum too, was the Chanel Lego Bag in pastel blue. Why do all my posts turn into an advertisement for Chanel? Anyway, this bag is timeless even though it has only been available for at most ten years, the Chanel Lego Bag is the first item I would purchase if I was in possession of 10,000 pounds, it is what I define as perfect. Of course the clutch was shown exactly at the midpoint of its case just to give you that urgent need to grab it and run. Anyway, this bag is and will forever be my uttermost need of handbags. 

To conclude, the Museum of Handbags and Purses was for me, a once in a lifetime experience. There was no need to travel to various different designer shops just to see their offerings of handbags, everything was grouped into one and I constantly got won over by one handbag and then another and then another. Additionally, it is very surprising that there is so much information and in-depth origin in the field of hand garments as they are such a necessity in everybody’s lives today and provide such an impact to getting around. To be honest, my entire knowledge of fashion was pleading for some extra notes in the bag field and without a doubt these notes are now covered. 

Please pop a comment below of feedback regarding this post and make sure you view the gallery linked to get lost in a multitude of handbags from the early 1400s to the present day all taken at the Amsterdam Museum of Handbags and Purses.

Thank-you for reading,

Poppy ~ Largerfeld Enthusiast x

Make sure that you follow me on Instagram just because I’m fabulous –         http://instagram.com/carmamademedoit

What did Coco do?

Let’s forget Karl for just a second and reminisce about the original, insanely intuitive Gabrielle Chanel or if you prefer – Coco Chanel. Now we all understand that this inspirational designer went beyond others of her time, making women’s fashion that radiated femininity opposing against the strong demand of the common uncomfortable attire, a frequent being that of tight corsets. But how did she do this? What were the specific elements that combined to give Gabrielle such a prodigious reputation in fashion?

Using Jersey

This fabric was viewed as the main for men’s underwear and nothing else. Coco decided that jersey would be suitable for her creations due to its low cost compared to alternative substances that had suddenly risen in price after the war. Daringly, Chanel was the first designer to involve jersey in her creations stating that it had a quality finish and an exceptional drapery. In addition, the fabric suited Chanel’s influence of straightforward and convenient menswear making it a perfect match for her ideas.

Inventing the Little Black Dress

Everyone has one, it’s that noted classic yet do you know that Chanel is the women to thank? Previously, black was the dull, unnoticeable shade viewed as a principle look for only funerals and the grief of widows. Gabrielle discovered the hues secretive aspect and came with the ever valued belief of it being a major contribution for fashion. To be honest, I cannot imagine a world without it. Dominant reds, greens and sharp blues were referenced to making Coco “feel ill” later on she quoted “these Women, I’m bloody well going to dress them in black!” Noticed by Vogue, they first introduced Gabrielle’s time-honoured black masterpiece in a 1926 issue spreading word of the commodity to a larger amount of fashion enthusiasts which is still growing today.

Labelling Perfume

Back then, scents were a mixture of completely natural aspects focused on floral aromas unlike the artificial perks involved nowadays. 1921 was the year Coco released her favoured perfume, possibly the most acknowledged of scents today, Chanel No.5 after the instance of it being the 5th perfume tested. Yes, Paul Poiret recently launched his own scent earlier in the year however there was an absence of his name. Gabrielle was of course intelligent enough to be the first of brands to officially have their name placed on the bottle. By doing this, people recognised the scent and knew it was Chanel no.5. Famously a particular lover was Marilyn Monroe repeatedly noting the scent during interviews “I said Chanel No 5 because it’s the truth.”

Releasing Extravagant Jewellery

Chanel is all about the elegance and high-class of the wearers so it is no surprise that Gabrielle was one of the first to produce costume jewellery in her collections. Likewise to before, Paul Poiret was the first nevertheless Coco’s range constituted of flamboyant white pearls placed besides each other, the reason why you have that treasured pearl necklace in your jewellery box. She adored the idea of exaggerated gems contrasting with her minimalistic and sophisticated apparel. Moreover, the combination of speculating both fake and legitimate in one look.

Having Tanned Skin

Surely, Gabrielle wasn’t the original copy of those orange faced stags you see on a night out; she was the opener of healthy, sun-kissed skin. This greatly rebelled against the standard appearance of pale faced complexions resembling porcelain dolls by the adding of bright blusher and rouge lips. She caught hold of the present man’s thoughts of an idealistic women being as alike to paintings as possible. Coincidently, Coco caught a beautiful tan amid her cruise holiday along the French Riviera. After arriving home, her peers exceedingly desired for the same coloured skin furthermore passing the fascination to other members of public enough to make it a trend all around the world as well as an ongoing accessory for years to come.  Even though the expression is generally viewed as being cheap when by the use of fake tan, formerly it gave out a reputation of prosperity and refinement.

Females Wearing Trousers 

Especially amongst the time of war, women working in factories would usually custom that of a pair of trousers for efficiency and health and safety reasons though not prior to Coco did the forms of attire become a general clothing item to females. It was when Gabrielle became anxious about displaying her figure to men precedent to having to wear a swimsuit that she refused and instead astounded people with walking out in a pair of sailors pants, this occurred at the society beach resort in Deauville (been there, just saying). Similar to how those of us in the Alexa Chung fandom attempt (and tremendously fail) to manipulate her style, Gabrielle’s fans did the same. Despite the women’s wearing of the clothing, she ensued to proclaim “I came up with them by modesty. From this usage to it becoming fashion, having 70% of women wearing trousers at evening dinner is quite sad.” I thoroughly disagree with her.

The Fashion-Changing Chanel Suit

The Chanel suit was the pinnacle of Coco’s clothing creations; it was the first of its kind. Recommended by major fashion icons consisting of Audrey Hepburn, Jackie Kennedy (worn on the day of her husband’s assassination) and Grace Kelly, the garment was trimmed with braid, had fitted sleeves, no collar and metallic embellished buttons. Additionally, the boxer jacket was combined with a sophisticated slim-line skirt emphasising that typical aristocratic Chanel women.

Warby Parker’s Limited Edition Corner Capsuel Collection makes Contacts a thing of the Past

Now Warby Parker is a brand whose concept, those of us with an average person’s budget can all thank. They saw the growing possibilities of the sunglasses industry and having experienced a college student budget, created Warby Parker. Both sunglasses and optical wear are available in store and they now have concessions in major American locations such as New York, Los Angeles and Atlanta, their success is expanding by the day. Their other focus is charity work, they have partnerships with non-profit organisations, one being Vision-Spring, which assures them that a less fortunate person in need of optical eye wear will receive a free pair of optical glasses for every pair of Warby Parker glasses that are purchased.

Amidst their limited edition Corner Capsuel Collection, there are 5 new styles for both eyeglasses and sunglasses fitting any wearer’s preference. Uncover your inner Hepburn with the seductive leopard print cat-eyes or reminisce about the seventies with some transparent box lens eyeglasses. What’s more, the label has successfully added two contemporary hues, Rhubarb and Quartz. Incorporated with Parker’s professionally polished eye-wear, the distinctive shades provide sparking up of your standard plain pair of glasses.

I myself was immediately won over by the Teddy 285 Topdown Suns. An Emerald Lens rimmed with exotic leopard print upon quite an obscure style. Yet the elements combined together make a peculiar masterpiece, it isn’t like your typical pair of sunglasses where a designer takes them, uses one fixed colour then adds just one differentiating pattern or shade so they can place the word ‘exciting’ throughout its description. Alternatively, this model goes where others fear and I can assuredly affirm that risk as being an ultimate triumph.

Another positive feature is the collection’s reoccurring theme of British styles. To start with, some have that mahogany look; a style one would most commonly associate with a man carrying a satchel in chinos. It’s that business sense, moreover sophistication. You are able to wear these to work without appearing as overdone however they still act as a stylish accessory. Forget those only-child-with-glasses days and finally be satisfied with that identification. Who needs contact lenses when we have Warby Parker? There is no doubt that the attire will be noticed amongst a crowd.

Forwarding on to pairings, cat eyes look great with suits because you’re mixing both the masculinity of a blazer and trousers with the femininity of the all-important point upon the glasses. Never the less, use modernistic colours such as solid blues, blacks, whites and silvers to amplify the contrast between Hollywood vintage and the 21st century, for this look use the Warby Parker Goodney 100 Angel Suns. Secondly, let’s discuss the Hutton Topdowns for men. Appearing as a narrower though protracted form, these are suited for those with oval shaped faces who desire for them to look a meagre amount larger. By the small, square shaped rims, this style will sharpen the eyes whilst elongating the face providing a more muscular presence which is a goal most men strive for.

Alternatively to the Hutton Topdowns, the collection includes a quirky pair called Topper Topdowns. This has a combination of the classic almond brown with sparks of white that emphasise the glass’ tremendous glow. These glasses correspond to that of Ray Ban’s tortoise shell acetate products however they are a lot cheaper, giving out that they look remarkably prodigious over other models without a lack of sensibility.

‘The Corner Collection gets its name from our seasonal preoccupation with silhouettes and angles. This time around, we’re experimenting with traditional shapes; think crisp keyhole bridges, sloping brow lines, sharp temples, and straight-edged brow bars in a handsome mix of horn-inspired acetate and stainless steel.’

The New Corner Capsuel Collection matches Warby Parker’s creation process combining the unique inspiration of global features with hand designed quality pair of glasses. In addition, their material is always the best quality ranging from premium Japanese titanium to custom single-sheet cellulose acetate all manufactured its own family-run factory.

Overall this Corner Capsule Collection bravely explores like no other brand. It captures new trends, combining patterns and shades in a group of exclusive eye-wear that is the answer to all our prayers. Their limited edition collection would make the perfect photo base for Instagram, they are the styles you see on a popular fashion blogger’s feed, and thus they are a clear portrayal of futuristic trends with a touch of the trendy vintage past.

Be sure to comment your favourite pair from the collection.

Warby Parker’s Online Store – https://www.warbyparker.com/

Warby Parker on Twitter – https://twitter.com/WarbyParker

Warby Parker on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/warbyparker

Warby Parker on Instagram – http://instagram.com/warbyparker

What did Coco do?

Let’s forget Karl for just a second and reminisce about the original, insanely intuitive Gabrielle Chanel or if you prefer – Coco Chanel. Now we all understand that this inspirational designer went beyond others of her time, making women’s fashion that radiated femininity opposing against the strong demand of the common uncomfortable attire, a frequent being that of tight corsets. But how did she do this? What were the specific elements that combined to give Gabrielle such a prodigious reputation in fashion?

Using Jersey

This fabric was viewed as the main for men’s underwear and nothing else. Coco decided that jersey would be suitable for her creations due to its low cost compared to alternative substances that had suddenly risen in price after the war. Daringly, Chanel was the first designer to involve jersey in her creations stating that it had a quality finish and an exceptional drapery. In addition, the fabric suited Chanel’s influence of straightforward and convenient menswear making it a perfect match for her ideas.

Inventing the Little Black Dress

Everyone has one, it’s that noted classic yet do you know that Chanel is the women to thank? Previously, black was the dull, unnoticeable shade viewed as a principle look for only funerals and the grief of widows. Gabrielle discovered the hues secretive aspect and came with the ever valued belief of it being a major contribution for fashion. To be honest, I cannot imagine a world without it. Dominant reds, greens and sharp blues were referenced to making Coco “feel ill” later on she quoted “these Women, I’m bloody well going to dress them in black!” Noticed by Vogue, they first introduced Gabrielle’s time-honoured black masterpiece in a 1926 issue spreading word of the commodity to a larger amount of fashion enthusiasts which is still growing today.

Labelling Perfume

Back then, scents were a mixture of completely natural aspects focused on floral aromas unlike the artificial perks involved nowadays. 1921 was the year Coco released her favoured perfume, possibly the most acknowledged of scents today, Chanel No.5 after the instance of it being the 5th perfume tested. Yes, Paul Poiret recently launched his own scent earlier in the year however there was an absence of his name. Gabrielle was of course intelligent enough to be the first of brands to officially have their name placed on the bottle. By doing this, people recognised the scent and knew it was Chanel no.5. Famously a particular lover was Marilyn Monroe repeatedly noting the scent during interviews “I said Chanel No 5 because it’s the truth.”

Releasing Extravagant Jewellery

Chanel is all about the elegance and high-class of the wearers so it is no surprise that Gabrielle was one of the first to produce costume jewellery in her collections. Likewise to before, Paul Poiret was the first nevertheless Coco’s range constituted of flamboyant white pearls placed besides each other, the reason why you have that treasured pearl necklace in your jewellery box. She adored the idea of exaggerated gems contrasting with her minimalistic and sophisticated apparel. Moreover, the combination of speculating both fake and legitimate in one look.

Having Tanned Skin

Surely, Gabrielle wasn’t the original copy of those orange faced stags you see on a night out; she was the opener of healthy, sun-kissed skin. This greatly rebelled against the standard appearance of pale faced complexions resembling porcelain dolls by the adding of bright blusher and rouge lips. She caught hold of the present man’s thoughts of an idealistic women being as alike to paintings as possible. Coincidently, Coco caught a beautiful tan amid her cruise holiday along the French Riviera. After arriving home, her peers exceedingly desired for the same coloured skin furthermore passing the fascination to other members of public enough to make it a trend all around the world as well as an ongoing accessory for years to come.  Even though the expression is generally viewed as being cheap when by the use of fake tan, formerly it gave out a reputation of prosperity and refinement.

Females Wearing Trousers 

Especially amongst the time of war, women working in factories would usually custom that of a pair of trousers for efficiency and health and safety reasons though not prior to Coco did the forms of attire become a general clothing item to females. It was when Gabrielle became anxious about displaying her figure to men precedent to having to wear a swimsuit that she refused and instead astounded people with walking out in a pair of sailors pants, this occurred at the society beach resort in Deauville (been there, just saying). Similar to how those of us in the Alexa Chung fandom attempt (and tremendously fail) to manipulate her style, Gabrielle’s fans did the same. Despite the women’s wearing of the clothing, she ensued to proclaim “I came up with them by modesty. From this usage to it becoming fashion, having 70% of women wearing trousers at evening dinner is quite sad.” I thoroughly disagree with her.

Creating the Chanel Suit

The Chanel suit was the pinnacle of Coco’s clothing creations; it was the first of its kind. Recommended by major fashion icons consisting of Audrey Hepburn, Jackie Kennedy (worn on the day of her husband’s assassination) and Grace Kelly, the garment was trimmed with braid, had fitted sleeves, no collar and metallic embellished buttons. Additionally, the boxer jacket was combined with a sophisticated slim-line skirt emphasising that typical aristocratic Chanel women.

Gown; an essential

Everyone needs that one special gown that was a complete one off, a garment that they hesitantly “umed” and “ahed” about thoroughly previous to finally giving in and handing over the ‘one off’ sum of change. It’s that piece that provides such a depth of satisfaction when you delicately place it on. The apparel that makes you constantly glance over at your reflection whenever a mirror is passed or a shop window is seen. Despite an evening dress’ overwhelming elegance only some designers dare to include it in their collections, particularly during this season it included that of Emilia Wickstead, Oscar De La Renta and Christopher Kane. But of whom ended in a success and of who ended in the idea that it should not be taken any further? Amidst this post, I will pick out my most favoured attempts yet also the ones I greatly oppose.

Alberta Feretti produces quite bohemian style pieces in nature related colour for instance: camel beige, subtle nudes and patent whites. Overall, its gowns are exceedingly angelic and in my opinion, would make the perfect prom dress catalogue. Specifically, I adore her undertaking of lace which being saintly itself is embroidered to create ethereal attire that when developing a-line skirts can sneakily cause a 1 foot increase in any ones height. Throughout presenting lace clothes, the label uses dominantly ginger haired models further emphasising the sense of outdoor environment as well as an indication to religion due to the fact that Eve herself (stated in the bible to be one of the first people God placed on planet earth along with Adam) had red hair. Moreover, we can all continue to note infinite connotations of spirituality but if I did we would be here all day. Anyway, I love the patterns symmetry upon the dress, Victorian style floral mixed with the sudden full block of white located at the bottom hem. Unlike other designers output of the lace material, Alberta Feretti makes sure that the piece isn’t overwhelming (dissimilar to approaches by designers such as Valentino and Roberto Cavalli), instead it can be worn by everyday people without looking out of place.

On the other hand I am not a fan of Prada’s new collection of gowns exhibited at Milan Fashion Week mainly due to the thorough overuse of pattern and colour. Although the shades involved in each gown tend to be paired with each other often, at this specific occurrence, the concept has clearly not worked. Furthermore, I believe that this point has caused the dresses to appear behind time. Yes, vintage is the new contemporary but this example is grandma vintage which only grandmas can wear. However, if you disagree with my opinion which is possible since everyone has a different taste, you’d best be placing an intensely patterned gown with that of some plain garments. In this case, ditch the socks and wear flat gladiator sandals as well as a sun-hat because it is extremely rare to see one in a single layer during winter.

Next, as well as discovering a new collection of dresses, I discovered a new designer called Matthew Williamson. Some may be wondering where I’ve been all my life but it turns out that he is a big label. For instance, he has had models such as Kate Moss and Cara Delevigne speculate his creations which include a fascinating group of gowns. In particular, I chose a kind of hallucination style of dress with the dominance of a black rose bunch as a belt. To be honest, I am not completely sure about the material types however I suspect it to be tweed. Tweed is an incredible material due to the versatility as well as the texture it provides to apparel, not only to the fabric but the colours it placed with. As a result, I believe that this dress wouldn’t be as enhancing to the eye without its focus on the material. To pair this piece or something similar comes as a remarkably simple task; just add heels, a clutch and your good to go.

Another dress I absolutely loved however found 2 years ago and have remembered well was the dress Emma Stone wore to the Met Gala in 2012. Covered infinite, what look to be plastic transparent poppies, this is possibly my favourite red-carpet outfit in history and being honest, I was never a fan of red until this came up on my We Heart It feed. She looks so beautiful and dainty; I would do anything to be in the ownership of that gown. By Lanvin, the dresses opulence came as no surprise also I am in total guilt for staying up till 3am by endlessly browsing the Lanvin web-store. Unfortunately, this dress is so uniquely magnificent that I was unable to find similar high-street attire. Anyway, I am forever dreaming.

Returning back to my dislikes, the Funlayo Deri Celestine Evening Gown is a definite no-no. Firstly, the placement of the satin ribbon puts me off considering it being under the bust which possibly can disfigure body shapes making them look less appealing than in reality. Secondly, I personally believe that the satin segments of the skirt resemble that of the curtain in your living room and I originally hated thigh cut outs being what this style corresponds to (just replacing the thigh outline with the material). Overall, the gown is tremendously random and clashes greatly. Moreover, it has the capability of highlighting the places most women try to avoid signifying throughout all their attire. I was unable to place a picture of this dress so if you wish to view it here’s the link – https://www.wolfandbadger.com/celestine-evening-gown/?mid=36620&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-DzJhhvUMgAUlvPJ67ixO9w .

Feels for Flats whilst Heels Jog on

I can guarantee that this won’t have been the first time you’ll have heard about how flats are superbly dominating heels right now. From Chanel’s tweed sneakers to Valentino’s quirky rock-runners, this is a craze everyone knows about. And it isn’t just trainers, but sandals, ankle-boots and many more; finally we can walk around without getting blisters yet still looking stylish. What more I hear you say? Well these flats aren’t all £900 Chanel, we can actually purchase them from the common in-your-local-shopping-centre brands making everything just that £800 cheaper.

  

First let’s talk about the ugly wedge flats. Being a regular appearance at this year’s fashion weeks, the category includes that of a sandal that can be worn both in the winter and the summer as well as the industry promoting its new turn-around of being absolutely acceptable as a pairing of socks. Of course Anna Wintour still detests the socks and sandals look, moreover, she is a keen opposition of the all black look yet we still continue to see all black everywhere. Likewise to sandals, creepers are another flat that has been reigning the schemes of shoes for as long as I can remember (you can read my blog post about creepers here – https://largerfeldentusiast.wordpress.com/2014/07/17/who-would-have-thought-that-creepers-originate-from-the-army). Mostly viewed as a youthy gothic attire, Prada produced chunky creeper brogues amidst there runway show way back in spring 2011 however, I believe that we’ve got a long time to wait until they become an attire of the past. Another fact is that creepers are definitely 110 times better than heels just because, they’re not heels.

 

Flats have become the new heels mainly due to convenience, who wants to be running around the city whilst balancing on a 3 inch stick? Exactly. As the human population’s percentage of city inhabitancy has increased so has the need for functional footwear that works with the busy lives of working people. Additionally, gender rights have improved dramatically therefore women now require just as much efficiency in the things they wear just as much as men do when attending work. Plus, women travel at a fair greater amount (hence those idealistic Instagram accounts, for instance the ones who live in Paris and drink green smoothies religiously), another reason behind the sudden rise of even-soled shoes.

Secondly, the majority of people in the fashion industry are stereo-typed under being over 6 foot yet having a 22 inch or less waist and we all know how awkward it can be for a 6 foot friend to wear heels besides there average-height-of-5’4 friends due to the fact that they look like a giant rather than a tall person. In my opinion, it looks good on the runway when the models are joined with 100 other 6 foot-or-higher humans yet it doesn’t when you’re in reality. For example, I recently read Naomi Campbell’s – Back in Brixton article for British Vogue where she is photographed in 5 inch heels standing beside her 5 foot mother (Naomi is 6 foot!). Yep, not the best image regarding composition. Associated to the idea of expanded female employment, women have started to take a more masculine approach to fashion through garments such as sophisticated blazers and boyfriend shirts/jeans. Take a look at Cara Delevigne’s numerous blazer and trouser suit-combos. Evidently men aren’t known to take on a heel larger than 1.5 inches so bringing back flats is just another cause of female fashion’s manly take-over.

One flat we all can’t live without is ballet flats. Seen constantly on British Vogue editor, Alexa Chung, there is a ballet for any outfit, all you have to do is find the colour that matches and bam fashion crisis solved. Other well-known people who aren’t a stranger to ballet flats include Taylor Swift. Red, yellow, black, you name it, Taylor has worn it. As part of her typical sailor style, Taylor combines the footwear style with printed shirts (most commonly stripes) as well as plain skater skirts. This is such an effortless set yet the outcome is incredible. In relation to Alexa, she has done the same by placing the shoes with a long sleeve striped shirt however besides some vintage denim shorts. Moreover, Alexa most frequently pairs ballet flats with just a single dress thus far she still manages to look flawless against the simplicity.

Furthermore, there are the classic trainers or sneakers if you prefer. This category is definitely the most relatable to my point in reference to how women need helpful footwear. Especially this season we have seen a mass wearing of trainers everywhere yet mainly upon the feet of city livers. Brands such as New Balance, Superga and Nike are the current superiors, in my opinion, this scheme of shoes has now exceedingly overtaken the classic All Stars Converse, which was once thought to be impossible.

An Eminent Photographer to Both Fashion and Royalty

 Lord Snowdon is behind the considerable logic of why noble yet fascinating photographs endure of the most immense icons in fashion, from presenting the reality of an apprehensive Christian Dior to showing the opulence that of John Galliano possesses as he is seen lounging across cream fabric of course including that of his dominant americane moustache as if hand-drawn. You name it, Snowdon’s done it. Stating “I hate the word portraits”, Snowdon majority of captures have the components of adequate frames and show the spectacle of reality of people’s nature causing controversy against society’s speculation of opinion. 

Born in the hustling city of London, England, Snowdon was first influenced by his art focused great-grandfather, Edward Linley Sandborn being that of a mordant photographer and cartoonist. Not only does it run from his sardonic great-grand-father, but also Oliver Messel, Snowdon’s uncle having the prolific career of a theatre, ballet and opera designer.  Furthermore, in 1943, Snowdon was enrolled to the well regarded Eton College alike to his barrister father, Antony Charles Robert Armstrong-Jones. Here was where Snowdon took a profound intrigue in the significant topics of Science and Engineering however this was soon overpowered by his interest in photography therefore he effectively came to the decision of invigorating the lacking Eton Photographic Society .

A deplorable incident occurred during Snowdon’s period of a 16 year old; he was contracted with the lamentable disease of polio bringing great distress and trauma to him-self and his family. Meanwhile, as an act of condolence and to less an the feeling of durability in hospital, Snowdon’s mother, Anne Messel permitted Snowdon with a camera with the acknowledgement that it would envision her son’s successful prospects. 6 months later, Snowdon was not entirely recovered still holding the devastating impact of a withered left leg, marginally briefer than that of his right leg.

Subsequently, Snowdon’s intellect in the field of Science brought him to the obvious conclusion of studying the resourceful subject during his University years at Jesus College, Cambridge. Despite Snowdon’s dedication to Science, he soon discovered that his yearning of photography was at a much greater level, with gratitude to his theatrical productions working uncle as inspiration, Snowdon then converted to studying architecture which includes photography regarding buildings. As a result, Snowdon purchased his first extensive form of camera, a second hand Thornton Pickard. Quoting – “I used to stay with him (uncle) in Venice and we would walk all night. Most people look down. He taught me to look up. You miss so much not looking up.”, hardly any time passed before Snowdon was capturing portrait schemes of photography. 

Significantly, Snowdon’s first profitably published photograph was that in Tatler, a British associative magazine considering the outset of his apprentice alongside London humanity photographer Baron. Additionally, 3 years passed and it was 1954 when Snowdon photographed that of the opening of Terence Rattigan’s Separate Tables, two one act plays of whom Rattigan achieved the pride of a CBE for writing such a phenomenal piece of literature. This capture of such a superlative spectacle provided Snowdan with tremendous promotion over the theatre industry as well as his intense superiority in the field of society photography. This stride in Snowdon’s already-enormous popularity gave him numerous opportunities such as photographing for the favoured fashion and life-style magazines: Vogue, Tatler and even Harper’s Bazaar.

An example of Snowdan’s legendary work includes that of US Vogue’s issue cover in April 1971 presenting British American glamour actress, Elizabeth Taylor giving the convincing stare emphasising her consciousness and opulence. Snowdan’s choice of a cougar blue definitely contrasts exceptionally with that of Taylor’s nude based make up. Not only contrast but the maya blue eye’s Taylor acquires corresponds to the enigmatic backdrop adding mystery and an eerie sense. Moreover this can be related to the prestige theme involved in that of Taylor’s endeavours. Another evidently conferred feature is the way in which Snowdon is able to create effect, in this specific image being the excessive neutrality of Taylor’s profound facial expression, this conveys how placid clients felt working beside Snowdon.

Secondly, after a multitude of perpetual research, I finally came across this vintage and exceedingly elegant Snowdon capture of Jean Quick. Although thorough inquiry by myself was undertaken, I was unable to uncover any kind of information about this women categorically thus I can only case my perspective on the image itself without reference to reality. To start with, this photograph appears to have been set in that of an ornate cafe/restaurant depicted from the luxurious cloth and expensive-looking attire. Coincidently, Quick gives me the impression that likewise to the aspect of Taylor, she is a remarkably enigmatic woman, perhaps a person who goes unnoticed, inexorably the standard of person with a preference to being in their own presence rather than others hence the inadequacy of information around the internet. Something more, the idea that the background is blurred evidently is intended for us to focus on quick, stating a matter of the women looking mediocre externally nonetheless being the holder of something substantial internally. Quick causes my feelings to recalibrate into intimidation as if the image is reticently applying an act of coercion. 

Comprehensive of all of Snowdon’s pieces, the most iconic ultimate is the many captured of Princess Margaret, Snowdon’s authoritative wife from 1960 till 1978. For instance, the primed portrait photograph of the princess is shown attiring extravagant and extensive earrings that justify the momentous women’s affluence and fascinating prosperity. On the other hand, what is the most appealing about this photograph is the ceaseless shadow amongst her face that separates in addition to giving dominance to a sentiment of two sides. When it comes to a dark and light colour, this sentiment distinctly represents the concept of good and bad, angel and devil, and yin and yang. Undoubtedly a royal in the spotlight of fashion must demand an element of her life and soul that is private which this idea could be a rumination of.

Overall, my reaction to Snowdon is quite controversial. Although being able to constitute the most awe-provoking photographs, I still do not utterly believe in the entire concept of each after the meticulous depictions I have approximately analysed. Decidedly, every Snowdon photo I have seen so far illustrates a genuine secrecy that other images do not, just showing the notion that everything is not what you see it as and everybody has a concealed enigma corresponding to his 2008 biography’s confession to unconstitutionally fathering a child briefly preceding on from his divorce with the beautiful Princess Margaret.