Paris Fashion Week came and went, and many talented designers showcased their 2018 Collections. Elements from many of these collections are also incorporated into Chinese art and antiques from a wide range of time periods. We sat down with Chicago-based Chinese art and antiques expert Betsy Nathan of Pagoda Red to pair Fashion week looks with their historic inspirations. Check out some of the looks below!
Dynamic Duo: Colonial Chairs // Valentino
Simple, yet bold, color contrasts like black and white allow for alluring, sleek designs and texture combination as seen in this look from Valentino’s Spring 2018 Couture Collection, and a Chinese teak armchair furnished with Mongolian lamb cushions.
Texture Goes Classy: Kite // Alexis Mabille
The lustrous combination of black and gold is a design element that has stood the test of time. As seen here in a piece from Alexis Mabille and in this one-of-a-kind “Wellspring” kite by Michael Thompson, the black and gold duo truly captures the essence of elegance.
Ravishing Red: Red Stool // Christian Dior
The color red is symbolic of many things, one of those being passion. The creators’ passion for both these pieces — a beautiful handmade stool by July Zhou and an exquisite red dress by Christian Dior — is embodied in both piece’s re-imagining of a textural, sleek red hue, and “mirage” effects that beg for a closer look.
One With Nature: Floral Vase // Valentino
Red and blue floral elements are incorporated into this aesthetic Meiji-era porcelain bottleneck vase, as well as this majestic outfit from Valentino’s Spring 2018 Couture Collection
Rethink the Classics: Blue Steel Kimono Drum // John Galliano for Maison Margiela
Meticulous engineering and bold, textural blues are the driving forces behind this re-purposed steel drum “Blue Kimono” piece by Gordon Chandler and a draped, double-breasted suit designed by John Galliano for Maison Margiela.
