Recently I’ve been reading an amazing biography of Catherine the Great (find it here). Aside from being a kickass woman who stole the Russian throne from her crappy husband, she also used clothes for political leverage. Her lavish wardrobe and parties circulated a new image of Russia as wealthy and sophisticated.
I love this anecdote because many people are quick to relegate clothes to a petty, women’s interest. But rather than expressing Russia’s power exclusively with warfare, as male leaders are quick to do, she used art, clothing, and social capital to change their image and improve their global status.
This outfit from my seventh anniversary post is my contemporary interpretation of Catherine’s gowns and diamonds. It makes me feel like a powerful, vivacious leader. I may not be at the helm of a country, but a polished outfit works wonders in any industry.
Dress: ASOS, Shoes: NastyGal
Photos by Rebecca Gatto Photography.
emily | shell chic'd says
You never cease to impress me little one. Love this the most! Also HOW have we been blogging 7 years?!