Eastern Philosophies.

   Some of my friends said I should talk more of Asian traditional inspired cultures in the fashion dairies. Actually I love presenting looks which have been inspired by Asian ancient histories, but I don’t have too many opportunities (Perhaps because I am  based in the west).
   The theme of today is called”Eastern Philosophies”. One outfit, two emotions. Inspirations from ancient Chinese recluse to the neutral style in the beginning of last century.
   Chinese ancient philosophy presents a thinking of  the “Nothing and Void”, everything in the world actually is “empty”, this theme appeared in Buddism and Daoism many times. People live in the world as energy, to experience different life. Difference is Buddhism thinks life is a cycle of re births and new beginnings , but Daoism thinks the energy will be immortal after death. Chinese philosophers such as Laozi thought people should have inner peace,stay gentle( actually it means just let everything be).Was inspired by these gentle culture, Chinese hermits or people of a solitary disposition present a kind of idyllic life style “keep far away from the society” would be the motto and goal, the few influences brought upon them the better. This was seen as a form of purism where in the influence of the many (society) would pollute the individual on a singular objective. As societies often are corrupt via government, greed, or material beliefs that “one must gain as many things as possible and aim to be at the top of the pyramid”, so it is understandable how some during that time long ago (and even at present) choose to be recluses.  Something I can never be, people are too important for me and I thrive around them. Since I was young I always think in the thought ways of Daoism and that a solitary life full with calm and education, books upon books to fill the mind and imagination is the most wonderful thing, the best part of life is to have this choice. To when ever you want you can find your calm to be as a Daoist or Monk and have peace in the mind and heart, that is all I want. Yet, the world is growing more and more, shoulder to shoulder we sit, stand, eat and work. 
Even despite the ever increasing resemblance of daily life to that of packed sardines I hope you, we all, find calm and peace. 

Top by Boessert/Schorn
Skirt by Rag & Bone
Shoes, hat and basket from Vintage shop

Illustration by Nancy.Z
Photography by Ajdin.B

Tao Yuan Ming,(365-427AD), Hermit, Poet.

The movie” The magic Crane”,1993

   Now let’s travel to the beginning of last century in China (Jump in my time machine!).  I wore the same outfit as the last one, but it looks like a  traveller outfit now. At 1910-20s, Chinese gentleman’s outfits were adjusted from Qing traditional style, but also mixed with Han’s style and western style. Straw hat and round shape glasses was very popular in men’s fashion during this period. After the western culture influence, the look became neutral and causal.    

 One of the most classic scenes from the movie”L’amante”.
1910-20s Men’s looks in China.

15 Comments

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    mitsuki

    Very nice! I think it’s amazing how you combine very simple clothe and get a super cute outfit. it surely does look more like the crane-women, then the one of a traveller…

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    Genie

    breathtaking!
    Firstly, I thought that it was greek goddess look. But then I saw movie pictures, and I was surprised once again how u can easily and perfectly carry art into style!
    Bravo!

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    Winnie

    Great post! I am a huge fan of merging cultures into style / fashion. Even more interesting is how traditions influence our way of dressing in sometimes obvious or subtle ways.

    http://www.withaplombblog.com

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    Natasha Fatah

    This has to be one of your best posts yet. It’s beautiful and thoughtful. The idea of just letting things be, and not straining and striving is something I definitely struggle with. You’ve done a beautiful job on this post.

    xoxo
    ~Natasha Fatah~
    ~Natasha Fatah~

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    Looona Lou

    Wunderschön! Vor allem die Zeichnung dazu gefällt mir sehr.

    ♥Looona Lou

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    Nikell

    So pretty!! I love how you draw from your inspiration. Most people copy celebs…you’re so original (^_^)

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    Chila

    Pretty drawing!!!!!

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    elena

    You are so talented dear!!!! love your illustrations! and this look is so dreamy and delicate
    xo
    Elena
    http://dcinstyle.com/blog/

  • Reply June 19, 2012

    Shana

    I really enjoyed this post. I loved the first outfit on you XD

  • Reply June 20, 2012

    RHODA

    i love how you get totally into an outfit!

    http://www.styleandshades.blogspot.com

  • Reply June 20, 2012

    Laura

    SOOO beautiful!!! Looks so pretty!

  • Reply June 20, 2012

    Elaine Chen

    This is actually a really lovely and unique outfit! love it!First time replying to your blog=) Keep it up

  • Reply June 22, 2012

    Duck

    Wow I just linked here from Shini’s blog and I love it! So beautiful and so much detail put into every post. 🙂

  • Reply June 23, 2012

    sight

    Beautiful outfit, quite amazing how the addition of accessories can totally change a look.

  • Reply June 25, 2012

    Yana

    Beautiful!!

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