This Fashionista’s philosophy of fashion can be summed up in the following words from feminist author Jeanette Winterson, “What you risk reveals what you value.” In drawing subtly from burlesque and fetish fashion, she questions what it means to assume a shamelessly femme aesthetic while still asserting agency and promoting inclusivity.
This Fashionista is onto something important when she locates fashion as a medium in which traditional feminine ideals can be reclaimed to confront social issues. Whether it’s being mindful of the ethical crimes of fast-fashion by opting for locally hand-crafted accessories or denouncing a culture of slut-shaming by unapologetically donning fabulously feathery heels, fashion is a great way to (literally) wear your values on your sleeve.
Although it’s crucial to avoid appropriating other cultures and to promote free expression when making your daily sartorial choices, there’s no reason why you can’t get sassy with pop culture too. This Fashionista embraces the style of controversy-courting teen reality star Courtney Stodden in a sexy low cut bodysuit. She simultaneously exudes the seductive power and feminine cunning of horror hostess Elvira in a matching sultry wrap dress. But let’s not forget the influence of the larger-than-life pop goddesses of the 21st century. Her soft beach waves definitely recall the sun-kissed Cali-chic of Lana Del Rey, while her mauve lipstick makes us think of Rihanna and her punky purple lips. These leading ladies—whether they identify as feminist or not—embrace their femininity in an unconventional way, inspiring the rest of us girly-girls to do the same.
What’s on the BEAUTY BAR: To achieve that no-makeup makeup glow, this Fashionista wears Naked Skin Foundation (In Colour 2) from Urban Decay with a little added shimmer from Watt’s Up! Cream Highlighter from Benefit. She plays up her striking eyes with Kitten Eyeshadow from Stila, Sin Eyeshadow from Urban Decay and Eyebrow Gel in Blonde from Benefit. To top off this sultry look, she combines Aqua Lip Waterproof Lipliner Pencil in 3C from MAKE UP FOR EVER with Lolita liquid lipstick (second formulation) from Kat Von D to create the perfect long-wearing mauve pout.
