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Chinese Fashion - by Maryam Ahmed

Oriental patterns and styles have never been too far from the catwalk since the bright and bold prints of the 1960's and a favourite of many famous names. These days it is difficult to buy clothes that are in fashion without breaking the bank. The average style-conscious person is aware of the constant search for those key wardrobe pieces that are affordable, unique and in vogue year after year. Add to this the fact that shops that focus on any culture besides mainstream pop culture are becoming few and far between, especially in Leeds where shops like Primark are growing and spreading, offering borrowed and generic trends which imitate the current styles of fashion worn by celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Colleen McLoughlin and Lindsay Lohan.

Asian fashions are gaining recognition around the world for the sanctuary that they provide from these types of current fashions. The patterns of Chinese dresses are so varied, from the vibrant and striking to the delicate and subtle, and as such they are suitable to wear for almost any occasion from an intimate birthday meal or a Christmas party to a night out with friends. There is a huge range of stunning shimmery printed and embroidered blouses and satin smooth kimono wrap tops, to add sparkle to any gathering, as well as fabulous jackets and blouses in more formal styles with delicate designs that can be worn for daytime chic. Chinese dresses are known for their elegance and there is a huge selection of glamorous short and full length ladies' dresses in traditional Qi Pao, Cheongsam and Mandarin styles. The current selection of designs range from the traditional dragon, phoenix and Chinese emblems to more contemporary floral prints.

In addition to this, there are also the more traditional forms of Chinese and Japanese style clothing. The latest selections of sensual Japanese kimonos and Chinese silk robes are perfect for evening and bedtime allurement. Available in a variety of colours and designs, these robes are sexy, seductive, and simply irresistible.

The film industry has been fascinated with the orient since the Bruce Lee era, with the most recent fixation on geishas and samurai warriors. The current resurgence of influence in fashion and design is actually taking place before our eyes, as new trends in fashion have a tendency to offer a European or Americanised take on an Eastern cultural style. Even Gwen Stefani has latched onto the incredible individual styles of Harajuku Girls in Honk Kong and her clothing range shows heavy oriental influences. The ethos of Harajuku-style fashions is a complete uniqueness which results in many different styles being seen adorned by teenage girls in the Harajuku district of Hong Kong, with influences ranging from Victorian Gothic to popular cartoon characters.

Asian jewellery is also very popular in the UK where an exquisite range of handmade Thai jewellery is available with coloured beads, cultured pearls, Chinese Jade and rustic semi-precious stoned necklaces and bracelets with silver plated detail. Available in most colours, these delicate pieces will complete any outfit.

Perhaps the most sought after item for every woman is a beautiful evening bag, and they don�t get much more beautiful than the variety of handmade bags in all the bright and tangible colours associated with the Asian continent. The beaded handbags are strikingly beautiful, lined with satin and can be worn on the shoulder or as clutch bags and are perfect for evening sparkle. The more traditional Chinese patterned bags feature handles made of fabric or bamboo and the purses have brocade detail or chain straps and are great to wear anytime to add a touch of glamour to a work outfit or plain jeans when shopping at the weekend.

With so few shops bold enough to go further than offer just the same current trends, all of these unique and breathtaking ideas for fashion, accessories and much more are more easily accessed from online retailers in the UK. Whatever your fashion needs, it doesn�t take much to put together an original and sophisticated look for all occasions, using traditional Eastern cultural styles known for their elegant beauty, just a quick search on the internet!

This article was produced by Asia Dragon. Visit us at www.asiadragon.co.uk where you will find authentic hardwood Oriental furniture & contemporary furniture, including Indian furniture, Chinese furniture plus Oriental rugs, soft furnishings and home decor ideas. Our Asian furniture and home furnishings are available in both traditional and contemporary styles. We also feature canvas photo prints, calligraphy, Chinese & Thai art, Thai silks, Chinese dresses, fashion accessories and Japanese kimonos.

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