Beauty is skin deep

Examining fashion from the inside out is quite intricate – our perceptions and tastes towards beauty are continually transforming.  While clothing embodies a need for self expression, the body, in its natural state propels our emotions.  Their affiliation goes hand and hand.  Silvan Tomkins from Princeton University felt that emotion was the code to life – The New Yorker, August 5^th 2002.  Looking at this theory from a consumer’s standpoint has superlative meaning.  The faces of fashion paint images of hope and promises of a lavish lifestyle - every so often a face appears that leaves a lasting impression. 

The iconic face of Kate Moss and her naturally skinny frame delivered a monumental shift in the way we view beauty.  The rise of the ‘superwaif’ (twiggy/heroin chic demeanor) generated controversy in the presidency and symbolized a brand new attitude in modeling and fashion.  Before her breakthrough in 1993, her discovery unfolded at JFK airport in New York (1988).  Sarah Doukas, owner of Storm Modeling Agency stumbled upon this isolated gem in all her naturalness.  Moss was fourteen years old.  The age of the supermodel was in full force in the 1990s, though Moss would join this titled position, her approach was charming and untouched.  Sarah was right:  “She was going to be something special.” 

Kate was a breath of fresh air – during her rise to stardom, Calvin Klein saw her bottled potential and exposed her celebrated individuality, releasing an ad and line of unisex perfumes.  We were hooked, her impact in fashion echoed across the globe!  The world’s most prestigious designers craved her cooperation… Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Chanel, Dior, Burberry, and Calvin Klein joined her list of accolades.  For more than a decade her face would grace the issues of Vanity Fair, and U.S., French, and British Vogue magazines.  While her achievements were spectacular, her personal life was in turmoil.  Partying, drugs, and inconsistent relationships advertised her vulnerability…

“I want to apologize to all of the people I have let down because of my behavior which has reflected badly on my family, friends, co-workers, business associates, and others.” Kate Moss

It’s easy to point the finger, criticizing a person’s character and lifestyle.  And even though her flaws were unveiled, Kate’s ability to recognize her shortcomings and improve her life speaks volumes.  It’s easy to judge, as humans we do this best and as a society no one is more unforgiving.  I love the feminine energy that Kate Moss exhibits… there is a spirit of beauty and poise.  Her beauty is treasured in the fashion world and her contributions unparalleled.

I am fascinated by beauty on so many levels; yes it exists in the physical, but even more important is the realization to see ourselves for who we are.  Being comfortable in our own skin is extremely difficult.  Beauty is skin deep, what do you see?

Images provided by: weheartit.com 

All the best,


Mark Nava