In her latest series, “Tell Me Mode,” Annabelle Kajbaf explores how underwear has shaped women’s roles through history and highlights the future of sustainable fashion.
Parisienne journalist Annabelle Kajbaf, known for her seasoned international reporting, is unveiling the rich tapestry of women’s fashion history through her innovative video series, Tell Me Mode. With a unique blend of storytelling and fashion expertise, Annabelle offers a fresh perspective on how historical and political forces have shaped women’s fashion, particularly focusing on the intimate realm of lingerie.
A Century-Old Journey Through Lingerie
The series begins with a dive into the intricate world of lace, a fabric that holds a storied past between Britain and France, likely originating from places like Calais and Dover. This luxurious material gained prominence through Emile Zola’s novel, “Au Bonheur des Dames,” highlighting the burgeoning era of department stores. Traditionally, lace was a treasured wedding gift, symbolizing delicate beauty and reserved elegance.
From Elegance to Audacity: The Roaring Twenties and Beyond
The narrative progresses to the Roaring Twenties, a pivotal era that redefined womanhood. Women, emerging from the shadows of World War I, adorned their ensembles with beads, feathers, and pearls, signaling a bold departure from past conservatism. Brands like Babeyond have captured this spirit, offering flapper dresses and accessories that echo the era’s newfound freedom. Additionally, Annabelle discusses modern designers like Tina Maria, who infuses contemporary footwear with the lavish touches of lace and pearls reminiscent of the past.
The Liberating Sixties and Seventies
Annabelle then transports viewers to the sixties and seventies, decades of vibrant change in women’s social status and self-expression. She highlights the bullet bras of the sixties, designed for women taking on new roles in society, and the playful, bold designs of the seventies that reflected women’s growing independence and flirtation with freedom. Designers like Alicia Perrillo and Laura Citron are noted for their contributions to capturing the essence of these transformative times, with their creations that perfectly blend historical homage with modern sensibilities.
Today’s Lingerie: A Symbol of Confidence and Inclusivity
Moving to the present, Annabelle explores how contemporary lingerie has evolved into a statement of empowerment and practicality, especially with the post-COVID emergence of ‘Business Bra Days.’ Modern designs, such as those from London-based Kuku of Reign Studio, emphasize sustainability and inclusivity, catering to a broad spectrum of body types. The blend of traditional lace with modern cuts by designers like Téamore from San Francisco showcases how today’s lingerie marries the past with the progressive present, empowering women to feel confident and stylish.
A Sustainable Future
As Annabelle prepares for her next episode, she emphasizes her commitment to spotlighting brands that not only celebrate the rich history of fashion but also pave the way for a sustainable and ethical future. Through Tell Me Mode, she continues to share the transformative power of fashion, exploring how the threads of the past continue to weave into the fabric of the present, shaping a more inclusive and responsible fashion industry.
Annabelle Kajbaf’s Tell Me Mode is more than just a fashion series—it’s a movement that dresses the narrative of women’s liberation and empowerment with the threads of history, culture, and sustainability.
