Chinese Fashion

In the Mood for Love; 2000; Wong Kar-Wai

I watched this movie again and I am still struck by how glorious those dresses worn by Maggie Cheung are. The sheer elegance of a fitted womanly form, the high collar emphasizing the slender neck and the allure of a long skirt punctured by a high slit showing just a bit of skin. The Chinese cheongsam can at times be such a breathtaking piece of art. The movie made me want to rush out to get my very own tailored cheongsams too! 

Brand Extension?

Paul Smith Mini Cooper 

I was asked to come up with a design for a Chanel sofa last week. Yes, a Chanel sofa. In fact, many brands have their own furniture line already. Armani Casa is probably one of the most extensive and Hermes is following quick on their heels to set up its own furniture store. Fashion and furniture? No, there is more. Chanel also does a whole host of sports-related products such as skis, surf boards, footballs, tennis rackets, boats, including dogwear in case you wanted to bring your dog to the beach. 

My Chanel Story

Chanel 2.55 Classic Flap Bag

This Chanel 2.55 was my first step into the world of luxury brands. 

Selfridges

Selfridges; London, Oxford Street; built 1909

While browsing around in Selfridges last week, I chanced upon 'Shopping, Seduction & Mr Selfridge' by Lindy Woodhead (2007) which started me pondering about Selfridges.

Loewe

Loewe; Serrano (first RTW store 1986)

Let's start with one of my all-time favourite luxury brands. I was disappointed to find out that the only luxury Spanish brand that has potential to hold its own against the Chanels and Guccis of the world was actually bought by the LVMH Group in 1996 and is currently owned by them. I think that Loewe is seriously undervalued as a luxury brand - there is to me a very alluring Spanish old-school charm about the brand. But of course, it was once the official supplier to the Spanish royal crown. I just wonder why unlike its French or Italian counterparts, it remains relatively low-key in other parts of the world, particularly Asia. In the same vein, I suppose I also wonder why Madrid has never broken into the top ten fashion capitals of the world when Barcelona is currently seventh. Regardless, at some point, some point, I am going to get my hands on that famous Amazona bag.