The Culture Club: Celebrating American’s Creative Diversity
By TINA WILSON
Entos
The NY Times just released a list of the 100 Best Movies of the 21rst Century, the chosen ones span the globe, number one being Parasite, the incomparable Korean film from 2019, I wholeheartedly agree with this choice and many of the others. I am listening to The Buena Vista Social Club soundtrack as I write this blog. If the soundtrack to this film does not reach down deep into your soul, you might want to check your pulse, just sayin’.
The current assault on culture is mind boggling and heartbreaking. Every day of our American lives we are treated to the food, the music, the films, the poetry, the art and the literature from across the globe. We are all better for it. I am fortunate enough to have travelled more than most to Korea, China, HK, India, Turkey, South America most of Europe and Israel and I have only been welcomed with kindness and only have experienced joy.
Fashion survives and mostly thrives because of the cultural influence of fabrics, craftsmanship and frankly the abundant affordable labor from places many of us have never even been. I would like to pay homage to the fabrics of Peru used by Skin, the pride in heritage of Asia from Natori, the spirit of Mexican entrepreneurship of Entos, the undeniable identity of Culture Trees and the innovation of Leonisa shapewear developed in Columbia.
Skin
No one does basics in exquisite fabrics like Skin, no one. Susan Beischel has nailed the art of simplicity that never gets old. I am dying for her Strapless Tube Dress in black, the yellow is sold out by the way.
Natori
I will never stop writing about, admiring and illustrating Natori. The use of prints, embroidery, and beading is signature, and the quality is impeccably beautiful. No brand can compare when it comes to Natori caftans, and the Shodo Beaded Caftan is so modern and hip and “old school” at the same time, I want one!
Entos
Entos is a luxury brand from Mexico with a wide array of lingerie, everyday apparel, luxury silks and bridal. The craftsmanship by and for women is to be admired, and the details are wonderful yet subtle and easy to wear.
Culture Trees Designs
I love the prints of Culture Trees; they have a wonderful distinctive African inspired edge so desperately needed now. Their apparel, lingerie and swim are not for the timid but for those who go bold in color and silhouette…bravo.
Leonisa
If you know anything about shapewear, you know Leonisa. Many of the category’s best sellers are theirs. The innovation is endless, the functionality is priceless, and the quality is perfection. The Truly Undetectable Shaper Short is a must have.
As we approach the 4th of July, we should celebrate the communities that made this country what it is, and we must find the courage to fight back against those who are trying to erase those cultures and the generations who built this country. In 2025 this July 4th should be more about reflection and action and perhaps in the next few years we will have cause to celebrate.
Peace, Respect and Resist
Tina
See More Fashion Blogs and Illustrations in Tina’s Column in the Gallery on Lingerie Briefs
