"The Tao that can be followed is not the eternal Tao.
The name that can be named is not the eternal name.
The nameless is the origin of heaven and earth
While naming is the origin of the myriad things.
Therefore, always desireless, you see the mystery
Ever desiring, you see the manifestation.
These two are the same-
When they appear they are named differently.
The sameness is the mystery,
Mystery within mystery;
The door to all marvels." --Tao Te Ching
If I could make a melting pot of every place in the past I've ever thought was beautiful, and take back a piece of clothing home with me, that is my wardrobe.
One of the most influential style for my wardrobe is dolly kei, originally a japanese street fashion. What is dolly kei? Similar to how Britain's Orientalism art period romanticized the Middle East and Eastern hemispheres, this cult of street fashion romanticizes old world Europe. Dolly kei uses different elements of vintages clothes and ethnic/folk costume to create an entirely new and fresh look.
I know what drew me to this style was the history behind the clothes, and have lived a second life before you ever came across them. However, it is your hand that selects them and gives them a new meaning, and a new life. It is also the appreciation of detail in handmade, and rustic feeling of artisan made objects such are paintings, embroidery, crochet, lace, tapestries, pottery, and metalworking. These objects does what our current mass production culture tends to turn away from: encrusting with detail.
Don't get bogged up on trying to emulate style icons, or even follow everything that I'm telling you. Dissect what pieces you like from an outfit, and from there build your wardrobe with clothes that are flattering on you and suit your personality.
This blog's goal is to give advice on how to find your own inspiration through exploring the beauty and energy of world's past.
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