There is something so compelling about a gash of red lipstick against the palest of white. Somehow the red lips against the white of the coat and snow reminds me of the face of a geisha. When the background is white everything else stands in sharp detail and becomes more clear. In fact, when doing some research about why geishas painted their face white, and there are several theories, one is that the practice began during a time when there was not enough light at night when geishas would perform. The white paint on their face made their facial expressions stand out and thus could be seen in the dimness of candlelight. In the tradition of Kabuki theater this same white make-up is painted on by the actor and color and line are added in such a manner that a mask emerges that creates the character being performed. These two identities seem to convey the sentiment I am writing about this week. I want my expressions to be “seen” but I also wish the safety of a mask as I perform my daily life in the public view. My readers’ thoughtful comments in response to the previous post have helped me gain clarity about what my concern really was.
I studied this coat for quite awhile before purchasing it. It was intensely compelling and I found myself returning to view it over and over. I tried it on more than once. Each and every time I had an involuntary sharp intake of breath when I looked in the mirror. Despite the coat’s stark difference from most of my usual selections, sometimes when your physiology tells you something you have to listen.
Accidental Icon Wears:
Red Lips Coat: MSGM, Black wool Pants with Red Trim: A. Friend, Boots: La Canadienne, Sunglasses: Prada
For more interesting looks from MSGM see my Pinterest Board: Accidental Icon Loves MSGM
I adore your lipstick coat. Love the crimson against the white – with the snow as the perfect backdrop. Here’s my lipstick dress: http://www.thehipsterette.com.au/wordpress/?p=11983
I absolutely adore your dress,
That is interesting enough for me to rum out and get a big piece of red material and experiment!
I adore your lipstick coat. Love the crimson against the white – with the snow as the perfect backdrop. Here’s my lipstick dress: http://www.thehipsterette.com.au/wordpress/?p=11983
I absolutely adore your dress,
Yes the lips are popping. Love it. I wonder what happens, in the case that you could, find a similar red background that matches the lips. White negative space could be as compelling too.
That is interesting enough for me to rum out and get a big piece of red material and experiment!
Yup! You get me!
The coat makes a strong but subtle statement. I am guessing I am likely correct in saying that this is likely the case with all of your wardrobe as black and white is subtlety attracting. While it is apparent you do make a statement with your attire the subtle aspect to such a statement is clearly critical to you. While I am an iris apfel fan her ‘in your face’ approach would never be your style! So, the entire concept of being invisible yet visible or vice-versa goes hand-in-hand with being comfortable in your own skin and not having to shout out loud – take a look, this is me and this is all you get.
Love the coat, Lyn, and if you ever happen to see another please contact me and I will arrange to get it shipped to Toronto from you. I can see why you found it so compelling as it’s timeless and unique and strong but subtle – like you! Enjoy your week-end, my dear – I always look forward to my Sundays and my New York Times which I get delivered and is at my door by 6:00 am – adore the style section!
Yup! You get me!
I think your lipstick coat is fantastic and to me as a viewer it doesn’t feel out of keeping with your image. As Kat says, it makes a strong but subtle statement. We should continue to push ourselves and try new things.
Especially today!
I think your lipstick coat is fantastic and to me as a viewer it doesn’t feel out of keeping with your image. As Kat says, it makes a strong but subtle statement. We should continue to push ourselves and try new things.
So glad you bought it. It is stunning. My you are doing well in the coat department. Very important in winter.
Greetje
Especially today!