:: SHOWstudio - Shelf Appeal ::

Regarding the wisp of lace and slither of ribbon that make up this mask, it is difficult to see how such an eccentric haberdasher's confection could be the linchpin in the most elegant collection of the season. Effectively a fine veil wrapped over a wire headband with dinky ears springing from each temple, it sounds as promising as Alexis Colby-does-Minnie Mouse.

Put it on, however, and the translucent materials take on a luxurious, deeply erotic quality, rendering its wearer simultaneously glamorous and breathtakingly feminine. Indeed, it is the sheerness of the piece - its state of hardly being there at all - that distinguishes the Lanvin mask from other, more theatrical, masks. Rather than concealing the face from view and creating a sense of intrigue over the wearer's identity, the gauzy fabric reveals the skin and hair beneath, merely gesturing at secrecy.

Never intended as a 'free standing' accessory - the masks are not on sale to the public- the piece was devised as a styling tool, a counter balance to the Lanvin designer's quintessentially simple, seamless, satin gowns. Yet this dainty, feline exercise in texture makes the most demure of statements, a playful contrast to this season's grown-up dressing.

Text by Penny Martin

Shelf Appeal archive
15.12.04: Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf
20.10.04: Blouse Bag by Ann-Sofie Back
30.09.04: Contact Lenses by Christian Dior
07.09.04: BMX by Y-3
25.08.04: Helmet by Stephen Jones for GIBO by Julie Verhoeven
05.08.04: Suitcase by Bottega Veneta
21.07.04: Sequinned Knickers by Alexander McQueen
08.07.04: Tennis Court Pump by Chanel
18.06.04: Parasol by Eley Kishimoto
14.05.04: Toolkit by Prada
07.05.04: Feather Headband by Miu Miu
26.04.04: Measuring Tape Belt by Tatty Devine
08.04.04: Easter Bunny Biscuits by Fortnum & Mason
31.03.04: Teapot by Vivienne Westwood for Coalport
24.03.04: Hair Brush by BLESS
12.03.04: Canderel Dispenser by Lagerfeld Gallery
04.03.04: Volleyball by Y-3
26.02.04: Bracelet by YSL
16.02.04: Lace Mask by Lanvin
04.02.04: Necklace by Marni
26.01.04: Straw Hat by Yohji Yamamoto
16.01.04: Edo Bells by Martin Margiela
19.12.03: Shimmering Stilettos by Viktor & Rolf

With thanks to Jane Audas